How to Measure a Cardboard Box Correctly – Measure Twice in the Right Location

In carpentry, there’s a simple rule that helps you to get your lumber to the right length every time: measure twice, cut once. By measuring twice, you ensure that you have the correct measurement and that the lumber will be cut to the correct size. If you don’t measure twice, you may end up having to cut the piece twice to get it to size, or you may end up cutting the piece too short and having to start over. The principle behind this rule applies to other areas, too. If you want to measure a cardboard box, measuring twice can help to ensure that you get the correct measurement before you purchase a box and realize that it’s too big or too small.

In real estate, there’s a simple rule that every real estate agent abides by: location, location, location. Finding the right house in the wrong location makes it the wrong house by default. In the same way, where you’re measuring a cardboard box makes a big difference. Because cardboard is so thick, you want to measure from the inside of the box, and not the outside. Measuring from the outside could result in up to a half inch or more of difference in the space you think you have inside the box.

There are three measurements you need to take when getting the size of a cardboard box: the length, the width, and the depth. When measuring length and width, it doesn’t really matter which is which, although the width is typically longer than the length. As long as you’re measuring adjacent sides, you’ll get the correct measurements. And the depth of the box is along the vertical plane of the box instead of the horizontal, where the length and width are. By measuring these three sides, you’ll be able to get the area and volume of the box.

Measuring a cardboard box may not seem like rocket science, but there are a few tips and tricks that you need to know in order to get a wholly accurate measurement. By knowing what you’re really trying to measure, you’ll be able to get the right measurements the first time, without wasting time on trying to cram materials that won’t fit into a box that’s just a half-inch too small. Working with the correct measurements will ultimately save you time and money. Doing it right the first time is priceless.