Measuring my package.

[angelacraig378]

I think the large envelope I am using to mail my item is irregular because it is square but Im not sure.  Also, Im not sure how to get the measurements. Do I have to go out and bu some measuring tape and hand measure it? I'm just a little confused about the dimensions and how to be exact with the measurements because Im a first time Seller.  What happens if I get to the Post Office and I measured it wrong?

[jame234]

I don't see that you sold anything on this account.  Is it on another account?  You put the item in a polymailer envelope or box whatever fits.  You measure the length, width, depth of package with a tape measure. You weigh it on a scale you can purchase on eBay.

[mudshark61369 · Accepted solution]

@angelacraig378,

We need more information to give you good advice.  Envelopes come in many sizes and thicknesses but larger ones should be measured and you want to give the length - width, which are the outer sides and thickness/height of it, with the item and any stiffener or packing material inside.  If what you are selling is a photo for example You would not need to measure the height/depth only the outer sides, unless the item creates a bulge in the envelope.

Most envelopes are sold as standard sized ones a standard letter envelope #10 is W43/8" x L 9.5" a #6 is  W 3 5/8"  by L 6.5"

Those 2 or 3 dimensions and the weight are needed to calculate shipping.  If you are planning to start selling on ebay regularly you will need a measuring tape, and a digital scale.

Perhaps you should tell us what you intend to sell so we can give you an idea if an envelope is an appropriate way to ship the item.

[angelacraig378]

Isnt there a listing somewhere on Ebay where you give them the dimensions and they give you the approximate weight? I thought I saw something like that.

[angelacraig378]

I'm selling a watch and it comes in a box that is kind of the size a cell phone would come in if it were to come in a form fitting box.  I have two envelopes. One is padded and fits the box like a glove and the other envelope is almost the size of a standard size manila envelope but it is square.  I thought there was a calculator somewhere on Ebay where you could give them the dimensions of an irregular package and they would calculate the weight for you.  I might be wrong about that. Someone else responded to this post and said I have to buy a scale from Ebay. Thats kind of unfortunate to have to spend money on things I might not ever use again. This is my first time selling on Ebay and I have no idea when Ill be selling again. Anyways, an envelope just seems like it would be kind of difficult to get an accurate measurement of.

[jame234]

No because eBay gets those statistics from item shipped and has not actually measured the item.  eBay estimated just as an FYI and it is almost never accurate.

As @angelacraig378  said, you need a measuring tape and scale.

[angelacraig378]

You wouldnt happen to know where on Ebay I can find that scale for sale.  Ive just been looking and cant seem to find it yet.