DHL Express Length + Girth Calculator
DHL Express size limits
DHL Express enforces thresholds that affect what you pay and whether your package ships. The calculator above flags each one automatically.
- Up to 120 inches: Standard rates.
- 120 – 157 inches: DHL applies an Overweight Piece surcharge on packages exceeding 70 kg (154 lbs) and an Oversize Piece surcharge based on dimensional thresholds.
- Over 157 inches: Packages over 400 cm length + girth, or over 300 cm on any single side, are not accepted for DHL Express service.
Maximum single side: 120 in. Maximum weight: 154 lb. Always verify against the current DHL Express rate guide before shipping high-value items.
How DHL Express measures girth
DHL Express uses the standard girth formula:
girth = 2 × (width + height)
length + girth = length + 2 × (width + height)
Worked example. A 50 × 20 × 20 inch box has girth (20 + 20) × 2 = 80 inches, and length + girth = 130 inches.
DHL measures girth as 2 × (width + height) for boxes, or circumference at the widest point for irregular shapes.
DHL Express vs other carriers
If your package exceeds DHL Express limits, here's how it compares:
| Carrier | Max L + G | Compare |
|---|---|---|
| UPS Ground | 165 in / 419 cm | UPS Ground → |
| FedEx Ground | 165 in / 419 cm | FedEx Ground → |
| USPS | 108 in / 274 cm | USPS → |
| Royal Mail | 118 in / 300 cm | Royal Mail → |
| Canada Post | 118 in / 300 cm | Canada Post → |
| Australia Post | 55 in / 140 cm | Australia Post → |
Frequently asked
What is the maximum girth allowed by DHL Express?
DHL Express allows up to 157 inches (400 cm) combined length plus girth. DHL applies an Overweight Piece surcharge on packages exceeding 70 kg (154 lbs) and an Oversize Piece surcharge based on dimensional thresholds.
How is DHL Express girth calculated?
Girth equals 2 × (width + height), using the two smaller dimensions. Add the longest side for length + girth.
What happens if my package exceeds the limit?
Packages over 400 cm length + girth, or over 300 cm on any single side, are not accepted for DHL Express service.
Does DHL Express measure tubes differently?
DHL measures girth as 2 × (width + height) for boxes, or circumference at the widest point for irregular shapes.