Everything needed to keep boxed items safe and organized from pickup through return is outlined here.
NOTE: Dorm Room Movers does not provide packing services.
Can I store or ship my own boxes?
Dorm Room Movers boxes are provided through a supply kit, but self-supplied boxes and containers are also acceptable when they meet basic quality standards.
Box quality (ECT and burst rate)
- Higher Edge Crush Test (ECT) and burst rate ratings improve durability.
- Stronger boxes hold up better to loading, unloading, stacking, and storage.
Suggested containers
- Plastic totes
- Cardboard boxes
- Suitcases
- Trunks
- Footlockers
- Garment bags
Trash bags and plastic bags
- Trash bags and thin plastic bags can tear easily.
- Rips can cause loss or damage during handling.
NOTE: Items packed in plastic or trash bags are not eligible for lost or damaged item claims under the Terms of Service.
Box size, weight, and shipping rules (self-supplied boxes)
Self-supplied boxes used for shipping must follow carrier size and weight limits.
Size limits
- Maximum combined length and girth is 165 inches.
- Calculation: Length + 2 × Width + 2 × Height.
Weight limits
- Maximum actual weight is 70 lb per box.
- Additional UPS overage fees apply to boxes over 40 lb.
- Actual weight is the rounded-up weight of the packed box.
How to measure box dimensions and weight
- Measure each side of the box.
- Determine Length, Width, and Height in inches.
- Round each measurement up to the nearest whole inch.
- Use a scale to weigh the packed box.
- Round any fraction of a pound up to the next whole pound.
UPS packaging guidelines (applied to shipping boxes)
- Use a rigid box with all flaps intact.
- Remove any old labels, hazardous material markings, or irrelevant stickers.
- Wrap each item separately.
- Use adequate cushioning inside the box.
- Seal with clear, strong shipping tape, not masking or scotch tape.
- Use three strips of tape across both the top and bottom seams.
- Do not use string or paper over-wrap; use tape only.
- Each box needs a unique address label with complete delivery and return information created through the Dorm Room Movers website.
- Place a duplicate address label inside the box (trimmed from the printed label).
Visit this link for more information: https://www.ups.com/packaging/?loc=en_US
UPS audits shipments based on what is entered on the shipping label:
- Inaccurate or rounded-down measurements can trigger additional fees.
- Dimensions and weight should match what is entered when generating the label in the Dorm Room Movers account.
For detailed instructions on international shipments, inventory lists, and customs requirements, refer to the International Shipping article linked in the Help Center.
How much weight can a Dorm Room Movers box hold?
- Signature boxes are 44 ECT single-wall corrugated shipping containers.
- Rated to hold up to 45 lbs.
Boxes that exceed 45 lbs may incur UPS overage fees, billed within 30 days of shipment.
How to pack and mark Dorm Room Movers boxes
Proper packing and labeling help movers handle items efficiently and reduces the risk of mix-ups.
Marking Dorm Room Movers boxes
- Place 1 unique bar-coded inventory sticker on each box.
- Write your order number on the sticker.
- For boxes shipping immediately after pickup, make sure to purchase the shipping label, print, and tape it in the designated label space on the box.
- Place a SHIP ASAP sticker where it can be seen easily.
Remember not to stack items on top of boxes that are to be shipped out immediately after pickup, as the movers may not see the shipping labels and inventory the box for storage by accident. Keep all labels facing forward and fully visible. If you are required to meet the movers on the day of service, let them know what boxes (if any) need to be shipped.
How to correctly measure a self supplied box for shipping
Box measurements and weight
When generating a shipping label for a self supplied box, the system requires accurate measurements and weight.
Correct details help ensure that no additional carrier charges are applied because a box is larger or heavier than listed on the shipping label.
NOTE: Carriers may audit shipments and apply overage fees if measured dimensions and weight are higher than what is entered on the label.
How to measure box dimensions
Measure Length, Width, and Height on each box.
Use a tape measure and record dimensions in inches.
Round each measurement up to the nearest whole inch.
Keep the recorded dimensions handy for entry into the shipping label tool.
Accurate dimensions reduce the chance of audit adjustments and unexpected overage fees.
How to measure box weight
Place the fully packed box on a scale.
Read the total weight and round up to the next whole pound.
Enter the rounded weight in the shipping label generator.
Weight and dimensions should match what is entered on the Dorm Room Movers label so that the quoted rate and the final carrier rate remain aligned.
Self Supplied Box Size and Weight Limitations
- Storage and shipping follow UPS size and weight limits for self supplied boxes.
- Maximum combined length and girth is 165 inches.
- Use the formula: Length + 2 × Width + 2 × Height.
- Maximum actual weight is 70 lb.
- Additional UPS overage fees apply to boxes over 40 lb.
- The actual weight is the package weight rounded up to the next whole pound.
- Use a scale to determine weight.
- Round any fraction of a pound up to the next whole pound.
International shipping packing requirements
For international shipments, Dorm Room Movers requires both a form and a detailed inventory for customs.
Submit the International Shipping Request Submission form to indicate that items will be shipped outside the USA and to obtain a quote.
Download the blank inventory sheet linked with that form.
Make a copy for each box and list every item inside along with its individual value.
Send a digital copy of the completed inventory to Dorm Room Movers.
Place a printed copy inside each box before sealing.
Customs authorities require this inventory and valuation. If the inventory or declared values do not pass inspection, boxes may be returned at the sender’s cost, and transit may be delayed until documentation is corrected.