A package is only as safe as the way it’s packed. Whether you’re shipping a gift, a sale or fragile goods, a few simple UPS packing steps — the right box, proper cushioning, and the H-tape method — keep your items intact and help avoid damage claims. This guide walks through how to pack a package for UPS the way the carrier recommends, plus what you’re not allowed to ship.
This is an independent shipping guide. For official rules and to buy postage, use ups.com — we are not affiliated with United Parcel Service.
1. Choose the right box
Start with a sturdy, new corrugated box. Reusing a worn box weakens it. Match the box strength to the weight:
- Single-wall boxes handle up to about 20 lbs.
- Double-wall boxes handle up to about 40 lbs.
- Never exceed the box’s maximum weight, printed on the bottom flap (the Box Maker’s Certificate).
2. Cushion the contents
Fill every empty space so nothing shifts in transit. Use bubble wrap, foam, loose-fill peanuts or crumpled kraft paper. For fragile items, surround each one with at least 2 inches (5 cm) of cushioning and keep it at least 2 inches away from the box walls. Wrap items individually so they can’t knock into each other.
3. Seal it with the H-tape method
UPS recommends pressure-sensitive plastic or nylon packing tape at least 2 inches wide. Don’t use masking, cellophane, duct tape, string or paper over-wrap. Seal the box in an “H” pattern: run tape along the center seam and across both edge seams on the top and bottom — three strips on each side — so all flaps are secured.
4. Double-box fragile or heavy items
UPS requires double-boxing for fragile items over 10 lbs. Place the cushioned inner box inside an outer box that’s about 6 inches larger in each dimension, and add roughly 3 inches of cushioning all around the inner box. This “box-in-a-box” approach absorbs shocks that would otherwise reach your item.
5. Label it correctly
- Place a single, clear shipping label on the largest flat surface — not over a seam or edge.
- Remove or cover old labels and barcodes if you reuse a box.
- Put a duplicate address slip inside the box in case the outer label is damaged.
UPS weight and size limits
For standard package services, UPS accepts boxes up to 150 lbs, 108 inches in length, and 165 inches in length plus girth. Heavier or larger items ship as freight. Right-sizing your box also keeps shipping costs down, since oversized boxes are billed on dimensional weight.
What you can’t ship with UPS
Some items are prohibited, including: currency/bank notes, fireworks and explosives, ammunition and firearms, hazardous waste, marijuana and vape products, tobacco, human remains, ivory and shark fins, and postage stamps. Others are restricted and need special handling or accounts — for example alcohol, lithium batteries, dry ice and perishables. When in doubt, check the official prohibited-items list on ups.com before you ship.
After you ship: track it
Once your package is on its way, follow it with your tracking number — see our UPS tracking guide, and use UPS My Choice for delivery alerts. UPS employees can manage their own account on the UPSers portal.
Frequently asked questions
What tape does UPS recommend?
Pressure-sensitive plastic or nylon packing tape at least 2 inches wide, applied in an H pattern. Avoid masking, cellophane, duct tape, string and paper over-wrap.
How do I pack fragile items for UPS?
Wrap each item with at least 2 inches of cushioning, keep it 2 inches from the box walls, and double-box anything fragile over 10 lbs using an outer box 6 inches larger with 3 inches of cushioning around the inner box.
What is the UPS package weight limit?
Up to 150 lbs and 108 inches in length (165 inches length plus girth) for standard services; larger or heavier items ship as freight.
What items are prohibited by UPS?
Examples include currency, fireworks/explosives, firearms and ammunition, hazardous waste, marijuana and vapes, tobacco, human remains, ivory and shark fins. Always check the official list on ups.com.
Related: UPS Ground Shipping · UPS Tracking & My Choice.