If you ship via Logistiek via Bol (LVB), the LVB dimensions of your product packaging determine the costs you pay. Many sellers on bol.com pay too much because they don't understand package sizes or because bol.com uses incorrect measurements. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explain everything about LVB dimensions, the different package categories, how costs are calculated, and how you can reclaim incorrect measurements to save hundreds or even thousands of euros.
What are LVB dimensions and why are they important?
LVB dimensions refer to the physical dimensions (length, width, and height) of the packaging in which your product is stored and shipped from the bol.com warehouse. These dimensions determine which package size category your product falls into, and that category directly determines the LVB costs you pay per shipment. Incorrect dimensions mean higher costs - and that can add up quickly to substantial amounts with hundreds or thousands of shipments per month.
Bol.com measures your products when they arrive at the warehouse and automatically assigns a package size. The problem is that this measurement is not always correct. Analyses show that for a significant percentage of products, the assigned package size does not match the actual dimensions. This can be due to measurement errors, deformation of packaging during transport, or incorrect product data in the system.
Overview of LVB package sizes and dimensions
Bol.com uses a standardized system of package sizes for LVB. Each package is categorized based on the longest side, the second-longest side, the shortest side, and the weight. Below is an overview of the most common LVB package sizes:
| Package size | Max. length (cm) | Max. width (cm) | Max. height (cm) | Max. weight (kg) | Indicative costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Envelope | 38 | 26.5 | 3.2 | 1 | €2.19 |
| Small package | 38 | 26.5 | 17 | 5 | €3.09 |
| Standard package | 57.5 | 39 | 33.5 | 23 | €3.79 |
| Large package | 120 | 60 | 60 | 23 | €5.49 |
| Extra large package | 175 | 78 | 78 | 31.5 | €8.99 |
Note: these dimensions and rates are periodically adjusted by bol.com. Always check the current rates on the bol.com partner platform. The costs above are indicative for 2026 and exclude any potential seasonal surcharges.
How are LVB dimensions measured?
When you send your products to the LVB warehouse, they are measured by bol.com using automated measurement systems. The process works as follows:
Step 1: Submission of products
You ship your products to the designated bol.com warehouse. Each product must be individually packaged in the final shipping packaging. This is important: bol.com measures the outer dimensions of the packaging, not the product itself.
Step 2: Automatic measurement
Upon arrival, your products are passed through a scanner that records the length, width, height, and weight. These measurements are stored in the system and used to determine the package size.
Step 3: Categorization
Based on the measured dimensions and weight, the system automatically assigns a package category. Your product is placed in the smallest category that fits all dimensions and weight. One centimeter too much on one of the three dimensions can mean that your product falls into a more expensive category.
Step 4: Invoicing
With every order shipped via LVB, the corresponding package size costs are listed on your bol.com invoice. This is the moment when any measurement errors become visible - and where you can reclaim your money.
Common mistakes with LVB dimensions
Many bol.com sellers make the same mistakes when it comes to LVB dimensions. Here are the five most common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
1. Using packaging that's too large
The most common mistake is using packaging that's larger than necessary. Every centimeter counts with LVB. If your product fits in a 37 × 25 × 15 cm box, you pay the "small package" price. But if you use a 40 × 27 × 16 cm box, you jump to "standard package" - and pay up to €0.70 more per shipment. With 1,000 shipments per month, that's €700 in unnecessary costs.
2. Not checking dimensions yourself
Don't blindly trust bol.com's measurements. Always measure your product packaging accurately yourself and compare it to the dimensions listed on your bol.com invoice. Use a measuring tape or caliper for precise results.
3. Forgetting protruding parts
Bol.com measures the outer dimensions, including any protruding parts, handles, or irregular shapes. A box with protruding flaps or a product with a handle can therefore fall into a larger category than expected.
4. Exceeding the weight limit
Even if your product fits into a small category in terms of dimensions, a higher weight can still place it in a more expensive category. Always check both the dimensions and the weight of your packaged product.
5. Not reclaiming incorrect measurements
Many sellers don't know that they can reclaim incorrect LVB measurements up to 3 months after the fact with bol.com. An LVB box size checker makes this process transparent and easy.
Reclaiming incorrect LVB dimensions
One of the biggest hidden cost factors for LVB sellers is incorrect package sizes. The good news: you can reclaim these costs. Here's how it works:
How to identify incorrect measurements?
Compare the package size on your LVB invoice with the actual dimensions of your product. If your product is listed in the "standard package" category but the actual dimensions fit the "small package" category, you're paying too much. The Boloo LVB Box Size Checker automatically generates this report for you after receiving each LVB invoice.
The reclaim process
To request a remeasurement from bol.com, follow these steps:
- Identify the products with incorrect measurements on your LVB invoice
- Gather evidence: photos of your product with a measuring tape, and the actual dimensions
- Submit a remeasurement request via the bol.com partner platform
- Bol.com performs a new measurement and adjusts the category if the claim is correct
- The difference in costs is refunded to your bol.com account
How much can you reclaim?
The amount you can reclaim depends on the number of incorrect measurements and the difference in package categories. In practice, we see that sellers regularly reclaim amounts of €200 to €2,000+ per quarter. With larger volumes, this can add up to thousands of euros per year - money that goes directly to your profit margin.
| Scenario | Incorrect category | Actual category | Difference per shipment | At 500 shipments/month |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small → Envelope | Small package | Envelope | €0,90 | €450/month |
| Standard → Small | Standard package | Small package | €0,70 | €350/month |
| Large → Standard | Large package | Standard package | €1,70 | €850/month |
| Extra large → Large | Extra large package | Large package | €3,50 | €1.750/month |
Tips to optimize LVB costs through dimensions
With the right approach, you can save on your LVB costs in the long run. Here are proven strategies:
Packaging optimization
Invest in packaging that fits your product perfectly. Custom-made boxes or envelopes can make the difference between two package categories. Consider having your product packaging designed by a specialist who takes into account the LVB dimension limits.
Strategic product bundling
If you bundle multiple products, calculate whether the bundle still fits into a favorable package category. Sometimes it's more cost-effective to ship products separately rather than in one large package.
Regular invoice checks
Check your LVB invoices monthly for discrepancies. Automate this process with tools like the Boloo LVB Box Size Checker so you don't miss any incorrect measurements. Combine this with automatic invoicing for a complete financial overview.
Considering seasonal influences
Keep in mind that bol.com may have a higher margin of error during peak periods (Black Friday, Sinterklaas, Christmas) due to the larger volume. Be extra alert to discrepancies during these periods.
LVB dimensions versus own shipping
The choice between LVB and your own shipping via bol.com strongly depends on your product dimensions. For small, lightweight products that fall into the envelope or small package category, LVB is often very beneficial. For larger products, shipping via an external carrier might sometimes be cheaper. Make a cost-benefit analysis based on your specific product mix and sales volume.
Use the Boloo Profit Calculator to calculate the total costs per product - including LVB costs based on dimensions, commission, and other variable costs. This way, you know exactly which shipping method is most profitable for your situation.
Frequently asked questions about LVB dimensions
How often does bol.com remeasure my products?
Bol.com can remeasure your products with each new submission. If you regularly submit the same products, the previously registered dimensions are usually used unless a significant deviation is detected.
Can I provide my own dimensions to bol.com?
You can specify the dimensions when creating your product offer, but bol.com always uses the dimensions they measured as the basis for invoicing. Your specified dimensions serve as a reference.
What if my product is right on the border of two categories?
If your product is on the border, it's wise to optimize the packaging so it just fits into the smaller category. Even 1-2 centimeters can make a difference. Consider a slightly smaller box size or more compact packaging.
How long does a remeasurement request take?
A remeasurement request at bol.com typically takes 5-10 business days. During busy periods, this may take longer. Make sure to submit your request within 3 months of the relevant invoice, as you'll lose your right to reclaim after that.
Are there any extra costs for special packaging shapes?
Yes, products with irregular shapes (like tubes, L-shapes, or very flat products) may be categorized differently. Bol.com always measures the smallest possible rectangular volume that the product fits into.
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