Ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets have become an increasingly popular option for homeowners and contractors looking to renovate or remodel their kitchens on a budget. RTA cabinets come packaged in boxes, with all the parts and hardware needed for assembly. This allows for more affordable shipping costs compared to fully assembled cabinetry. However, one question that often comes up is just how big are the boxes that ship these RTA cabinet components? In this guide, we’ll provide a detailed overview of standard RTA cabinet shipment sizes to help you properly plan your remodel.

An Introduction to RTA Cabinet Shipping

When ordering RTA cabinets, it’s important to understand how they will be packaged and shipped to you. Here’s a quick rundown of key facts:

• RTA cabinets ship in separate cardboard boxes that contain all the parts, panels, and hardware needed to assemble each cabinet.
• Cabinet boxes and doors typically ship separately. This allows the flat panels to be packed more efficiently.
• Shipping companies calculate rates based on the dimensional weight and distance traveled. Larger and heavier boxes will cost more to ship.
• RTA cabinet boxes can weigh between 65-100 lbs on average when fully packed.
• Expected delivery times are usually between 2-6 weeks after ordering. This allows the manufacturer time to cut, pack, and ship out all the components.
• Shipping damage, while rare, can occur. Always thoroughly inspect boxes upon delivery and note any evident damage before accepting the delivery.

Understanding these key points will help set proper expectations when ordering RTA cabinets online or through a home improvement retailer. Next, let’s look at standard box dimensions.

Standard RTA Cabinet Box Dimensions

The exact dimensions of RTA cabinet boxes can vary slightly by manufacturer, but most follow these general size ranges:

Base Cabinets

• Full Sink Base Cabinet (36″):
  • Box size – 44″ x 23″ x 5″
  • Approx. weight – 90-120 lbs
• Standard Base Cabinet (24″, 30″):
  • Box size – 32″ x 23″ x 5″
  • Approx. weight – 65-90 lbs
• Corner Base Cabinet:
  • Box size – 23″ x 28″ x 5″
  • Approx. weight – 70-100 lbs
• Large Drawer Base Cabinet (36″):
  • Box size – 44″ x 23″ x 5″
  • Approx. weight – 80-110 lbs

Wall Cabinets

• Standard Wall Cabinet (30″, 36″):
  • Box size – 32″ x 14″ x 5″
  • Approx. weight – 50-70 lbs
• Oven Cabinet (30″):
  • Box size – 32″ x 26″ x 5″
  • Approx. weight – 70-90 lbs
• Tall Pantry Cabinet (30″, 36″):
  • Box size – 32″ x 30″ x 5″
  • Approx. weight – 90-120 lbs

As you can see, standard kitchen cabinet boxes tend to range from 30″ to 45″ in length and 14″ to 30″ in height. The 5″ depth allows most flat panel components to fit efficiently.

Doors are lighter and smaller. For instance, a 36″ base cabinet door box will be around 46″ x 6″ x 3″ and 25-30 lbs.

If ordering multiple cabinets, they may be packed together in larger boxes. This helps optimize the packaging and shipping process across your whole order.

Planning for RTA Cabinet Shipments

Now that you know approximate RTA cabinet box sizes, you can start planning the logistics for your kitchen remodeling project:

• Check doorways & hallways – Measure width and height to ensure boxes can fit through during delivery.
• Clear a staging area – Have an empty space cleared in the kitchen or an adjacent room to temporarily hold and unbox cabinets.
• Plan for help moving – RTA cabinets can be heavy and awkward for one person to maneuver. Recruit help from family or friends if possible.
• Request garage or inside delivery – Check with retailers on delivery options. Garage or room of choice delivery will get boxes closer to the kitchen.
• Have tools ready – Ensure you have tools like utility knives, pry bars, drills, and fasteners to begin assembly and install.
• Check delivery timeframe – Confirm expected delivery date and arrange your schedule to ensure you’re available. Most deliveries will be made Monday through Friday during daytime hours.
• Inspect thoroughly – When boxes arrive, carefully inspect for any interior or exterior damage before accepting delivery.

With proper planning, the delivery and assembly process for RTA cabinets can go smoothly. Being prepared for the shipment will help your kitchen remodel stay on time and budget.

Helpful Tips for Receiving RTA Cabinet Shipments

Here are some additional tips when receiving and unpacking RTA cabinet boxes:

• Unpack boxes in the room you plan to assemble them – this avoids having to move heavy components twice.
• Use a utility knife to cut the tape on the top and bottom of boxes – don’t slice along the edges or you may damage contents.
• Check that all expected cabinets and parts are present by referencing your order paperwork.
• Examine components for defects like nicks, dents, or flaws. Contact the retailer promptly if any issues are found.
• Take inventory of all hardware bags and verify quantities. It’s much easier to request missing pieces now than later in the assembly process.
• Some components may be individually wrapped for protection – carefully remove any plastic or cardboard.
• Dispose of packaging materials properly after unpacking. Break down boxes for recycling or trash pickup where possible.
• Stage cabinets and parts in your assembly area. Group doors with corresponding boxes and lay out hardware bags. Being organized from the start makes the installation process easier.

With big projects like a kitchen remodel, getting things started off on the right foot is half the battle. Hopefully these shipment tips will give you greater confidence once those RTA cabinet boxes arrive on your doorstep.

Common Questions About RTA Cabinet Delivery

Many homeowners have additional questions surrounding the shipment and delivery process for RTA cabinets. We’ll try to address some of the most frequently asked ones below:

How do I track my RTA cabinet order shipment?

Cabinet retailers will provide a tracking number that can be referenced on the shipping carrier’s website (UPS, FedEx, etc). This will allow you to see the status of your order as it makes its way to you.

What if I need to reschedule my RTA cabinet delivery?

If the original delivery date no longer works with your schedule, contact the retailer as soon as possible to rebook. Most aim to accommodate reasonable delivery date changes provided they are notified in advance.

What if my RTA cabinets arrive damaged?

Thoroughly inspect all boxes and interior contents when they arrive. Note any significant damage on the carrier’s delivery receipt before accepting. Photograph damaged components and contact the retailer right away to file a damage claim. They will determine next steps for replacement or repair.

Why are RTA cabinet boxes so large?

These cabinets ship “flat packed” so parts can stack tightly and efficiently in boxes. This allows for better protection of components and more affordable shipping rates. Larger boxes mean lower costs.

How do I move heavy RTA cabinets by myself?

For one person, look for dollies, furniture sliders, or hand trucks that allow awkward, bulky boxes to be maneuvered. Or have a friend help lift and carry boxes – some two-person coordination makes it much easier than going solo.

Who will deliver the RTA cabinets into my home?

Most retailers use major shipping carriers like UPS, FedEx or freight companies to deliver boxes up to your doorstep. Requests can sometimes be made for room-of-choice or garage drop-off. But in-home installation may require third party services for an additional fee.

Will RTA cabinets be delivered fully assembled?

No, RTA cabinet components will ship separately in boxes for customer assembly. Only custom cabinet orders typically offer potential full assembly prior to delivery, usually at a much higher price.

Key Takeaways on RTA Cabinet Delivery

Here are some of the main points to remember when ordering RTA cabinets for your next kitchen remodel:

• Understand how RTA cabinets ship – disassembled in separate boxes that contain all the needed parts and hardware.
• Standard cabinet box dimensions usually range from 30″ to 45″ long and 14″ to 30″ tall, with depths around 5″.
• Check doorways to ensure boxes will fit through, and have an empty staging area cleared to receive the delivery.
• Inspect boxes and contents thoroughly before accepting delivery. Document any significant damage immediately.
• Unpack carefully with proper tools, organize parts logically, and dispose of packaging responsibly.
• Be prepared to schedule delivery dates/times and arrange any necessary resources for help moving heavy boxes.

While the shipping process for RTA cabinets seems complex, being armed with the knowledge in this guide will help ensure it goes smoothly. Adjust expectations, plan ahead, and inspect shipments carefully when they arrive. Your packaging efforts will pay off when you have quality components ready for fast, frustration-free assembly.

How to Measure Existing Cabinets to Plan for RTA Replacements

If refreshing your kitchen with new ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets, you’ll need to start by carefully measuring your existing cabinetry. Documenting the precise dimensions will allow you to select replacement RTA cabinets that fit into the same footprint. Follow these steps to measure current kitchen cabinets like a pro:

Gather Essential Measuring Tools

Pull together these must-have measuring and marking tools:

• Tape measure
• Carpenter’s pencil
• Sharp pencil
• Paper/notepad
• Cabinet planning worksheet
• Painter’s masking tape

Quality tools like durable 25′ tape measures will make measuring and note-taking much easier. Also have a stable surface to write on when marking down dimensions.

Measure Your Entire Cabinet Run

First, capture the overall kitchen perimeter:

• Measure wall-to-wall across the entire cabinet run, including any gaps or openings.
• Measure total height from floor to ceiling. For irregular heights, measure in 2-3 places along the run.
• Note down these overall kitchen dimensions as reference measurements.

Having these general sizes handy makes planning new cabinets much easier. Just don’t rely on them exclusively – exact cabinet measurements still need to be taken.

Document Individual Cabinet Dimensions

Moving left to right, capture sizes for each existing cabinet:

• Measure width of cabinet opening from inside edge to inside edge.
• Measure height from top of countertop to bottom of cabinet.
• Measure depth inside cabinet from front to back. Interior depth is needed for replacement.
• Repeat process for every cabinet, including uppers and lowers.
• Use tape to label each cabinet with a letter or number for easy reference.

Taking detailed measurements of every individual cabinet is crucial. Even small 1/2″ differences matter when ordering replacements.

Note Any Unique Cabinet Features

While measuring, make additional notes on any special cabinet features:

• Angled corners or blind cabinet spots
• Obstructions like pipes or vents
• Pull-out shelves or other storage accessories
• Door/drawer styles and any divider configurations
• Appliance dimensions like stove, fridge, sink, etc.

These details will impact the replacement cabinets needed. Ensuring accurate notes now prevents surprises later.

Document Measurements Clearly

With all measurements complete, clearly document them in an organized fashion:

• Transcribe notes into a kitchen planning worksheet or spreadsheet.
• List cabinet letters/numbers and dimensions in easy-to-follow layout.
• Include any special notes on cabinet features or obstructions.
• Double check work for any gaps or unclear markings.

Having a legible, thorough set of measurements is invaluable during the RTA cabinet selection process. All needed sizes should be easily referenced on paper or digitally.

Accurately measuring your current kitchen cabinetry takes time but is an essential step before ordering RTA replacement cabinets. With these tips, you can capture all the necessary dimensions to choose perfect-fitting options for your kitchen remodel.

How to Determine Appliance and Kitchen Remodel Dimensions

Becoming a cabinet measurement expert also means factoring appliances into your plans. The sizes of major kitchen appliances will impact placement of new cabinets. Follow these tips to capture all the important appliance measurements for your remodel:

Measure Refrigerator Dimensions

Accurately note the height, width, and depth of your refrigerator:

• Open doors fully to access back panel. Measure across the total width.
• Measure from top to bottom including trim, handles, etc.
• Depth should be measured from back of unit to front edge of doors.
• Note any housing trim dimensions that may impact surrounding cabinets.

Having the full refrigerator dimensions will prevent cabinets from conflicting with the unit.

Document Oven/Range Dimensions

Capture all details for your range or oven:

• Measure oven width from edge to edge.
• Get height from top of cooktop surface to bottom of range.
• Include depth from front control panel to back edge.
• For gas stoves, note any special cut-outs needed for plumbing.

Getting the right oven cabinet depends on accurate sizing, so measure twice to be sure.

Check Sink Base Cabinet Needs

To select the right sink base cabinet:

• Measure length and width of existing sink bowl opening.
• Note down any special cut-out spots for plumbing.

Test fit the sink in potential RTA sink base options to ensure an ideal size match.

Consider Other Appliance Spaces

Measure any other specialty appliances:

• Microwave dimensions – under-cabinet or over-range
• Dishwasher opening width and height
• Washer/dryer if adjacent to kitchen space

Account for trim, handles, and controls when capturing appliance sizes.

Allow for Clearances

When planning:

• Leave 30-36″ clearance between cabinets and appliances for door/drawer openings.
• Minimum 2″ gaps between sides of refrigerator and adjacent cabinets.
• At least 21″ clearance in front a dishwasher for full door opening.

Adequate space around appliances makes kitchen work easier.

Documenting appliance sizes upfront makes selecting and positioning new cabinets much easier. With all the essential kitchen dimensions in hand, you can create an accurate layout plan for your remodel.

How Cabinet Construction Impacts Quality and Costs

When evaluating ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets, you’ll encounter terminology related to cabinet boxes, components, and construction. Understanding these technical terms will help you recognize quality differences that impact both long-term durability and upfront costs.

Key Cabinet Box Construction Elements

The cabinet box refers to the main frame plus sides, bottom, back, and top. Here are key quality elements to look for:

• Hardwood frames – Maple or oak frames prevent warping and strengthen joints. Avoid particle board.
• Plywood sides – Look for furniture-grade plywood at least 1⁄2” thick. Avoid flimsier linings.
• Full stretchers – Spanning the cabinet front improves structural rigidity.
• Thick cabinet back – 1⁄4” plywood is superior to 1/8” for preventing racking.
• Reinforced corners – Angled brackets or blocking provide better corner strength.

The details of cabinet box construction significantly impact durability – so examine these closely.

Drawer Box and Door Styles Matter Too

Drawers and doors represent a big portion of overall cabinet quality:

• Dovetail joinery – Dovetail joints create super sturdy drawer boxes. Avoid basic butt joints.
• Soft-close – Look for full extension drawer slides with integrated soft-close mechanisms.
• Plywood – Opt for plywood over particle board for underlying door/drawer panels.
• Mortise and tenon – This traditional door joinery provides enhanced longevity and strength.

High-end cabinet lines invest in these premium materials and jointery methods that enhance stability and function long-term.

Finishes Should Be Durable and Consistent

The outer finish plays a big role in both appearance and durability:

• Multi-step finishing – Superior processes involve stain, sealer, and top coats for enhanced protection.
• UV-cured acrylic – Durable acrylic finishes cure under UV light for maximum stain and scratch resistance.
• Consistent coloring – Finishes should have uniform, consistent tones across all cabinets.

Avoid cheaper finishes like thermofoil or vinyl that can peel and degrade faster than wood veneer or multi-step stain and sealer.

Hardware Components Impact Performance

Don’t underestimate the importance of high-quality hardware:

• Full extension – Look for drawer slides rated for 100-150 lbs and full extension motion. Avoid basic side-mount slides.
• Slow-close hinges – Hinges with embedded soft-close mechanisms prevent slamming and bounce.
• Sturdy hanger – Thick, durable metal wall cabinet hangers prevent sagging over time.

Upgraded hardware enhances functionality and provides a luxury feel during use.

While it’s easy to focus only on visual elements, closely evaluating RTA cabinet construction, parts, and hardware will give you the best sense of true quality and value relative to cost. Durability-boosting elements like solid wood frames, sturdy joinery, and heavy-duty hardware may raise the price but also increase longevity significantly. Keep these key quality cues in mind as you shop cabinet options for your kitchen remodel.

How to Determine Cabinet Quality from Online Retailers

Shopping for cabinets online makes access convenient, but also makes it tricky to fully gauge quality. Here are tips for determining if RTA cabinets from an online retailer will meet your needs:

Examine Product Images Closely

Look for revealing quality clues in cabinet images:

• Joinery – Mortise and tenon joints should be evident at door frames. Avoid basic butt joints.