Abstract: A new method——the simplified theoretical method for calculating the settlement of piled box raft foundations for high buildings is proposed. This method is simple and convenient and can be calculated manually. Its calculated parameters are easy to be determined. The calculated value of settlement does not need the empirical coefficient for the depth modification. This method can show the nonlinear relation between the settlement and the load of the buildings. The comparison between the calculated and extrapolated measured values of the final settlement shows that the proposed method is feasible in Shanghai as well as in other cities. It can be supplement as the national standard "Code for design of building foundation" (GB50007-2002) considering the settlement calculation mode in shear stress of pile side.