The number of bytes needed applies to every single recipe, regardless of whether the connected packagers and unpackagers are used in the recipe. I'm using PackagedAuto-1.12.2-1.0.2.6
Here is the crafting steps for a 64k storage component, with PackagedAuto machines connected:

Here is the same recipe started moments later, with PackagedAuto machines disconnected.

Note: The ME system has to be rebooted after PackagedAuto machines are disconnected.