Practical guide · 4 min read
How to pack your parcel properly before shipping
Most damage comes from packing, not transport. Five simple rules that get your parcel there as it left.
On its journey a parcel is loaded, unloaded and stacked with other parcels several times. Good packing does not stop the vibration — it stops the vibration from reaching the contents.
The five rules
- Pick a box slightly larger than the contents, leaving room for a protective layer on every side.
- Fill the gaps; empty space inside the box is what lets the contents knock about.
- Wrap each fragile item separately rather than relying on the box alone.
- Seal the box with tape in an H pattern across all the seams.
- Put an address label inside the parcel as well, in case the outer label is damaged.
Liquids and sensitive goods
Liquids go into a sealed bag before entering the box. Remove batteries from electronics where possible, and wrap and brace glass so it never touches the box wall directly.
If you are not sure your packing is adequate, ask the branch staff before handing the parcel over — fixing packing at the counter is far easier than dealing with damage on arrival.