Packaging Tips
As experienced couriers we have become expert at packaging all sorts of items for transit, both domestically and internationally. We predominantly receive packages from our clients that are ready to go, but if you do ever want to pass the task on to us please feel free. If you are looking to pack things yourself, please use our guidelines below to keep your items safe and secure during their journey, there’s a video and text based version.
Video showing how to pack parcels for overnight or next day delivery via a parcel network.
H-Taping Method
This is our recommended method when packaging a standard box for movement in any parcel network. Strong brown parcel/packing tape is best, unless you have something industry specific such as tamper evident tape. It is also worth pointing out that when packaging items for parcel networks, that the outermost packaging should always be cardboard and tape.
Please note that if you have any unusual shaped loads or you don’t have packaging materials, we can take care of the packaging for a small additional fee.
Step 1
Starting with either the top or bottom of the box, apply a length of tape along the joint of the closed flaps, going a good way onto the side of the box at each end.
Step 2
Next apply tape along the exposed edges of the flaps and again go slightly around the corners so that there is protection on these points.
Step 3
Now add your contents with any necessary padding (see below) and follow steps 1 & 2 to seal the box. If it is a heavy load it is advisable to apply additional tape to support flaps and this is best done in the same direction as step 1 but at different points across the flaps.
When taping up any package please press down on all areas of the tape to ensure it is adhered to the cardboard. Pay particular attention to the ends as any exposed “sticky” areas can get caught and may cause the package to unwrap or become damaged whilst passing along conveyors or similar.
Padding Materials
When packaging anything where the contents do not fill the box, you should always fill the voids with some form of padding material. This adds protection, but the aim is also to prevent items from moving around, as this can lead to packaging bursting open, particularly if the item(s) is heavy. Below are some of the typical materials you can use but feel free to use anything that helps keep your load save and secure whilst traveling through the network.
Foam peanuts/noodles - these are great for all sorts of loads as they can get into all the space around an item. For the best use you should always ensure that the void is completely filled as this type of filling will move around with the load if not tightly packed.
Air Bags - as per the foam peanuts/noodles, these work well all around items, especially if they are unusual shapes. There are many varieties with some dedicated to certain load types, so choose what’s best for your item and again remember to pack tightly.
Bubble Wrap - this is good for wrapping around items but multiple layers are required to provide proper protection. If you do use this type of padding, you still need to fill any voids to prevent movement. You can use more bubble wrap for this or either of those previously mentioned.
Foam Wrap - similar to bubble wrap, this is great for wrapping items, especially for corners or protruding edges/points. Multiple layers are best. Good for wrapping multiple items in one box. Not a great void filler as you would have to use quite a lot to prevent movement.
Cardboard Types
Whether you are using new or recycled cardboard or cardboard boxes, it’s worth considering which thickness is best for the type of load you are sending. Below are the three typically available versions and what they are suited to. There are other options, such as corrugated plastic, so always look for what meets your shipping needs the most. Whichever one you choose, please still follow the taping and padding guidelines above. When choosing a suitable gauge of card in relation to the weight of the item, please also consider how dense it is, as small very heavy items if not well padded, can move around and cause damage.
Single Wall Thickness
This version should only be used for lightweight, non-fragile items that are no more than 5kg. Single wall can also be used for wrapping within loads as it is the most flexible and can be used for compartmentalisation.
Double Wall Thickness
Ideal for loads in the 5 -15kg range, but as mentioned above, weight vs density should also be taken into consideration. Also very good for making compartments in a larger box as it is less likely to flex under weight.
Triple Wall Thickness
Ideal for heavier items but can obviously be used for any parcel size or weight if you feel the need for the additional protection it provides. Again, it is great for dividing up inside a larger box or adding as reinforcement to a lower thickness box.
Other Tips
Always try to use a box that is close to the size of your item, with roughly 5-6cm of space between it and the wall of the box. This space should then be filled with padding. Try to avoid having your load touching the walls of the box . This can prevent any dead space that may allow the box to be crushed as boxes do get stacked in transit.
We don’t recommend re-using boxes as their strength tends to diminish with each use. However, we are all for re-cycling so please just bear this in mind when deciding how critical this is for the type of item you are sending. We recycle a lot of internal packaging where we can, as it works well for padding and filling.
For delicate items such as gifts or displays, please try to keep the load towards the centre of the box in all planes and add plenty of void filling to protect it as much as possible. You should carefully consider what you are sending through a parcel network as they are handled by both people and machinery. If something is particularly delicate/valuable it may be worth considering using a same day service as this gives you the facility of a dedicated van and driver who will personally take care of your items and this can also remove the need for packaging.