How to Package a Parcel for Safe Delivery: 10 Expert Tips
Why Packaging Matters More Than You Think
Even with the most careful courier service, parcels are lifted, stacked, transported at speed, and occasionally jostled. A well-packaged parcel survives all of this without a scratch. A poorly packaged one doesn't — and that's not the courier's fault.
Here are the ten most important packaging rules our drivers wish every sender followed.
1. Use a New Box Where Possible
Second-hand boxes have weakened walls, existing creases, and compromised structural integrity. They may look fine on the outside but fold under pressure during stacking. If you must reuse a box, check it thoroughly — no soft spots, tears, damp patches, or water damage.
2. Right-Size Your Box
A box too large for your item means the contents shift around in transit. A box too small puts pressure on the seams and may burst open. Aim for 5–7cm of clearance around your item on all sides — enough for padding, but not so much that things move freely.
3. Wrap Fragile Items Individually
Each fragile component should be wrapped separately in at least two layers of bubble wrap, secured with tape so the wrap doesn't unravel. For extra-delicate items, consider double-boxing: wrap in bubble wrap, place in a smaller box, then put that inside the outer shipping box with padding around it.
4. Fill All Empty Space
Void space inside the box is your enemy — it allows items to shift and collide with the box walls. Fill every gap completely with:
- Bubble wrap
- Packing peanuts
- Air cushions or inflatable packaging
- Crumpled brown kraft paper
The shake test: seal the box and shake it gently. If you can feel anything moving inside, add more padding until everything is completely immobile.
5. Use Strong Parcel Tape
Don't use masking tape, sellotape, or duct tape. Use proper brown parcel tape at least 50mm wide. Apply in an H-pattern: along the centre seam on both top and bottom, then across both edges. This distributes stress evenly and prevents the box from opening during handling.
6. Remove Old Labels and Barcodes
Reused boxes often have old delivery labels, barcodes, or addresses on them. These can confuse scanning equipment and potentially send your parcel to the wrong destination. Remove or completely cover all old labels with blank tape or stickers.
7. Protect Sharp Corners and Edges
Items with sharp corners — picture frames, furniture parts, tools, metal objects — can puncture through packaging from the inside. Wrap corners in extra layers of bubble wrap or use cardboard corner protectors before placing the item in the box.
8. Label Clearly on Multiple Sides
Put your main delivery label on the flattest, most visible surface of the package. Consider adding a second label on another side in case the primary one gets obscured. Pro tip: include the recipient's phone number and your return address inside the box too as a backup.
9. Mark Fragile Items — But Don't Rely on It Alone
"Fragile" stickers and "This Way Up" arrows are helpful visual cues, but always pack as if those stickers might be ignored. Proper internal padding is far more reliable than external labelling. Think of labels as a bonus layer of protection, not your primary defence.
10. Waterproof Valuable Contents
The outside of your parcel may encounter rain, damp vehicles, or condensation during transit. For water-sensitive items, seal them in a plastic bag or wrap in cling film before boxing. This is especially important for documents, electronics, photographs, and clothing.
Special Packaging Guidelines
- Electronics — use anti-static bags and original manufacturer packaging where possible. If original box isn't available, use extra bubble wrap and ensure the item can't contact the box walls.
- Liquids — seal containers in double leak-proof bags, pack upright where possible, and pad generously on all sides. Mark the box "Contains Liquid — This Way Up."
- Artwork and framed items — use specialist art packaging, a framers' portfolio box, or cardboard corner protectors with bubble wrap. Never let glass touch the outer box.
- Clothing and soft goods — a padded envelope or poly bag is usually sufficient. No rigid box needed unless the items are delicate (silk, lace, etc.).