Shipping various irregular items - best way?

I have a client whose inventory list consists of many different products in terms of shape, size and weight. For instance, one product could be 12" x 12" x 8' weighing 40 lbs. Another could be 30" x 30" x 30" weighing 5 lbs. So what happens when someone places an order for 3 or 4 products? what shipping module could possibly calculate a proper shipping charge for such an irregular order?

And if it is impossible for the cart to calculate accurately, what are the practical solutions to this? Is there a way to have the order processed to a certain point, and then the visitor must call for accurate shipping cost? Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Vito

So what happens when someone places an order for 3 or 4 products? what shipping module could possibly calculate a proper shipping charge for such an irregular order?
Can the irregular items be shipped with the others or must they be shipped seperately?

Preferably, one shipment that includes all items.

Vito

Preferably, one shipment that includes all items.
By weight should then calculate it correctly unless you have some other limitation
The sizes you posted might trip a max size allowed by the shipper

Thanks, kobra. Will test a few items and compare to real rates to see how it goes.

Vito