I didn't want to risk going with the 24" box. It would be nice and narrow, but the pack itself without insulation between cells is 24." With everything bound and insulation installed, I might need a maul to get them to fit. (If it doesn't fit, force it...if it breaks it needed replacing anyway. ?) The 30" box will give a bit of room, although I wonder if 36" would be better. I think the space available will determine what I do regarding compression.Sounds like a plan. As long as it fits. I have two sets of 8x8 for 32 280ah Lishen cells in a 48" box, with the cells upright, and it JUST fits. Plenty of room from the terminals to the top of the box, but just enough to squeeze in the insulation paper, and heating pads along the sides.