Maximum parcel dimensions, weight limits, volumetric calculations, and oversized freight rules — everything you need before you book a courier in South Africa.
UrgentGo handles everything from a single document to full freight pallets. Find your parcel tier below.
Up to 35 × 25 cm
Legal docs, contracts, A4 papers
Up to 40 × 30 × 20 cm
Books, clothing, small electronics
Up to 60 × 50 × 40 cm
Shoes, appliances, bulk clothing
Up to 100 × 70 × 60 cm
Printers, monitors, large boxes
Up to 150 × 100 × 100 cm
Furniture parts, machinery, tyres
No standard limit
Pallets, bulk cargo, industrial goods
* Dimensions are L × W × H. Volumetric weight may apply — see the calculator section below.
Couriers charge based on whichever is greater — the actual weight or the volumetric (dimensional) weight. Use this calculator to find your chargeable weight before booking.
Measure your parcel
Measure the longest point of each dimension in centimetres — length, width, and height.
Apply the formula
Volumetric weight (kg) = (L × W × H) ÷ 5,000. This is the industry-standard divisor used by most SA couriers.
Compare to actual weight
Weigh your packed parcel on a scale. The chargeable weight is whichever is higher — volumetric or actual.
Get your quote
Use the chargeable weight when requesting a quote. Underestimating leads to surcharges at collection.
Pro tip: A large but lightweight item like a pillow or lampshade will almost always be charged on volumetric weight — not actual weight. Always calculate both before booking.
Size and weight limits vary depending on which service you choose. Select a service to see its specific limits.
Maximum Weight
30 kg
Maximum Dimensions
100 × 70 × 60 cm
Volumetric Limit
30 kg volumetric
Girth Limit
Max 300 cm (L + 2W + 2H)
Need a quote for this service?
Get a QuoteNot sure which tier your item falls into? Here are typical weights and dimensions for common courier items in South Africa.
| Item | Typical Weight | Typical Dimensions | Tier |
|---|---|---|---|
| A4 Document Pack | 0.2 kg | 30 × 22 × 2 cm | Envelope |
| Laptop (boxed) | 3.5 kg | 40 × 30 × 10 cm | Small |
| Pair of Shoes | 1.2 kg | 35 × 22 × 14 cm | Small |
| Microwave Oven | 12 kg | 55 × 45 × 35 cm | Medium |
| Car Tyre (single) | 10 kg | 65 × 65 × 22 cm | Large |
| Flat-screen TV 55" | 18 kg | 130 × 80 × 15 cm | Extra Large |
| Office Chair | 15 kg | 70 × 65 × 110 cm | Extra Large |
| Bicycle | 12 kg | 140 × 80 × 40 cm | Extra Large |
| Fridge (bar) | 25 kg | 55 × 50 × 85 cm | Extra Large |
| Pallet (standard) | 200 kg+ | 120 × 100 × 120 cm | Freight |
| Clothing Bundle (5 items) | 2 kg | 45 × 35 × 20 cm | Small |
| Printer (laser) | 22 kg | 55 × 45 × 40 cm | Large |
* Weights and dimensions are approximate. Always weigh and measure your packed parcel before booking.
If your shipment exceeds standard size or weight limits, don't worry — UrgentGo has freight and dedicated vehicle options to handle it. We move everything from single oversized parcels to full pallets across South Africa.
A vehicle dispatched exclusively for your oversized or heavy shipment. No consolidation, no delays.
For urgent oversized shipments between major SA cities. Cold chain airfreight also available.
Goods strapped to a standard pallet for safe transport. Ideal for bulk eCommerce or industrial goods.
Store, pick, pack, and dispatch from our fulfilment centres. Ideal for high-volume eCommerce.
Everything about courier size and weight limits in South Africa.
Everything you need to book, pack, and protect your parcel.
Know your parcel size? Get an instant quote for same-day, overnight, or economy delivery.
Get a QuoteLearn how to pack your parcel correctly to avoid damage, delays, and insurance issues.
Read the GuideProtect your parcel against loss, damage, and theft with declared-value cover.
Learn About InsuranceCheck what you can and cannot send by courier in South Africa before you book.
View Prohibited ItemsLegal Disclaimer: By using UrgentGo Courier (Pty) Ltd services, you acknowledge and agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. UrgentGo Courier (Pty) Ltd (Reg. No. 2024/844754/07) shall not be held liable for delays, losses, or damages arising from circumstances beyond our reasonable control, including but not limited to force majeure events, incorrect address information, or improper packaging. All refund and claims requests are subject to our standard claims procedure and must be submitted in writing within 30 days of the shipment date. Wallet credits and prepaid business account balances are non-refundable upon cancellation. Services are governed by South African law.
