The limits
| Tier | Longest | Median | Shortest | Length + girth | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small bulky | 37 in | 28 in | 20 in | 130 in | 50 lb |
| Large bulky | 59 in | 33 in | 33 in | 130 in | 50 lb |
A unit is small bulky when it is too big or heavy for large standard (over 18 × 14 × 8 in or 20 lb) but fits every small bulky limit. Weight is the greater of unit weight and dimensional weight, with width and height treated as at least 2 in. Length plus girth is the longest side plus twice the other two.
What it costs
Small bulky starts at $7.55 (in the $10–$50 band) plus $0.38 per pound above the first; large bulky at $9.35 plus the same per pound. Example: a 9 lb item at $39.99.
| Box | Tier | Billed weight | Fulfillment with surcharge |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24 × 14 × 4 in | Small bulky | 9.67 lb | $11.35 |
| 40 × 14 × 6 in | Large bulky | 24.17 lb | $19.12 |
The longer box is large bulky, and because its dimensional weight is higher it also bills on more pounds. Getting under 37 inches on the longest side is often worth a packaging redesign.
Watch the 130-inch rule
A 37 × 28 × 20 inch box fits small bulky's side limits but measures 37 + 2 × (28 + 20) = 133 in, over the 130-inch cap, so it is extra-large. Check it with the size tier calculator.
Packaging fee
From January 2026, bulky items that aren't certified to ship in their own packaging (SIPP) pay a packaging fee, reported at about $2.07 per unit on average. The calculator includes it as an estimate unless you tick SIPP.