FastItalian LearningSign in
PhrasesAt the Post OfficeQual è il peso massimo per i pacchi?
A2

Qual è il peso massimo per i pacchi?

What is the maximum weight for parcels?

Pronunciation

MAS-si-mo — three syllables; double 's' is a geminate; stress on the first syllable.

When to use it

Use this before preparing a parcel, to ensure your package falls within acceptable weight limits. Weight limits vary by service and destination.

What it means

'Qual è' (what is) + 'il peso massimo' (the maximum weight) + 'per i pacchi' (for parcels). Weight limits vary significantly by service: domestic standard parcel can go up to 30 kg, while international EMS has destination-specific limits (typically 20–30 kg). The service cost increases with weight.

Variations

C'è anche un limite di dimensioni?

Is there also a size limit?

Dimensional limits (girth + length) apply in addition to weight

Il mio pacco pesa troppo — posso dividerlo?

My parcel weighs too much — can I split it?

Sending two smaller parcels is sometimes cheaper than oversize surcharges

Quanto pesa questo pacco?

How much does this parcel weigh?

Asking the clerk to weigh your parcel — always done at the counter

Mini Dialogue

— Qual è il peso massimo per i pacchi? — Per l'Italia fino a trenta chili. Per l'estero dipende dalla destinazione. — Il mio va in Brasile. — Per il Brasile massimo venti chili con EMS. — Il mio ne pesa dodici — perfetto.

— What is the maximum weight for parcels? — For Italy up to thirty kilos. For abroad it depends on the destination. — Mine is going to Brazil. — For Brazil maximum twenty kilos with EMS. — Mine weighs twelve — perfect.

Cultural Note

Weight and dimension limits for international parcels are set by the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in cooperation with each destination country. Some countries impose strict import restrictions on certain goods regardless of weight. Italy's import restrictions from non-EU countries can also affect what can be sent from Italy.