ANOTHER option: Make the package a CYLINDER (Like Quaker Oats)
Volume = pi r^2 h = 288 Let's make h = 10 then r = 3.0277
Area of the 'package' = pi d h = pi (6.0555) 10 = 190.233 sq in (but we must still add the two ends)
Area of Ends = 2 x pi r^2 = 2 x pi = 57.59
Total area of packaging = 57.59 + 190.233 = 247.823 sq in even LESS than a cube
Make the cylinder bigger (diameter) and shorter and save even MORE in packaging materials.
Cylinders will not be as efficient as a shipping option as a cube....though not far off!