What Are UPS Package Type Codes?
UPS (United Parcel Service) package type codes are alphanumeric identifiers used to describe the type of packaging a shipment is in and the type of service that can be used. These codes are important for UPS’s handling, tracking, and billing systems. They help in identifying how a package should be processed and delivered.
Here are some common types of UPS package codes…
For small package shipments, the following UPS standard package types may be available:
| Code | Description |
|---|---|
| CP | Basic package. To be used use with boxes, cartons, and “non-letter enclosure” |
| 30 | Pallet. Use this for anything shipped on a pallet, which UPS defines as a “low portable platform of wood, plastic, metal, fiberboard, or combinations thereof.” The pallet must have sufficient height to allow a forklift to pick it up. Note: This code is primarily used in the UK and Poland. |
| 10 | UPS 10kg Box. For boxes weighing up to 10 kilograms (22 pounds). Shipment dimensions are 17″ x 13″ x 11″. Primarily used for prepaid shipments originating in the United States (including Puerto Rico) shipping with Worldwide Express or Worldwide Express Plus. |
| 25 | UPS 25kg Box. For boxes weighing up to 25kg (55 pounds). The box’s dimensions are 19″ x 17″ x 14″ (or local equivalent). Use the box for prepaid shipments from the United States and Puerto Rico for Worldwide Express or Worldwide Express Plus. |
| 26 | UPS Small Express Box. Smaller box with a size of 13″ x 11″ x 2″. Used with: Next Day Air Early, Next Day Air, Next Day Air Saver, 2nd Day Air, Worldwide Express, or Worldwide Express Plus. |
| 27 | UPS Medium Express Box. Medium box with a size of 15″ x 11″ x 3″. Used with Next Day Air Early, Next Day Air, Next Day Air Saver, 2nd Day Air, Worldwide Express or Worldwide Express Plus. |
| 28 | UPS Large Express Box. Large box for items up to 30 pounds and a size of 18″ x 13″ x 3″. Used with Next Day Air Early, Next Day Air, Next Day Air Saver, 2nd Day Air, Worldwide Express or Worldwide Express Plus. |
| EE | UPS Letter. Select for Next Day Air Early, Next Day Air, Next Day Air Saver, 2nd Day Air AM, 2nd Day Air, Worldwide Express or Worldwide Express Plus services. |
| PK | UPS PAK. Select for protecting shipments that need a 16″ x 13″ x 1″ (or local equivalent) container of tear-resistant material. Use for Next Day Air, 2nd Day Air, Worldwide Express, and Worldwide Expedited services. |
| TB | UPS Tube. For rolled documents, blueprints, and posters. Measures 38″ x 6″ x 6″. Used with Next Day Air Early, Next Day Air, Next Day Air Saver, Worldwide Express and Worldwide Express Plus. |
Less-than Truck/Trailer Load (LT/TL) UPS Codes
For LTL/TL shipments,the following UPS standard package types may be available…
| Code | Description |
| 01 | Bag |
| 02 | Box |
| 03 | Carton/Piece |
| 04 | Crate |
| 05 | Drum |
| 06 | Pallet/Skid |
| 07 | Roll |
| 08 | Tube |