Packaging Tips

It is very important to securely package your items for transit as the shipping environment is notorious for rough handling.  Packages less than 150 lbs. must be able to travel through numerous conveyor systems, withstand a 30 foot drop, and still be intact.

We always suggest palletizing items over 150 lbs., especially when you have multiple pieces, as it typically costs less to ship a freight shipment, than shipping per-piece.

Cardboard boxes should never be reused, for wear occurs during each time the box is shipped. Thickness of boxes should depend on weight of the item your boxing. Use a quality new box or one in good shape.  Corrugated boxes come in different thickness, single wall, double wall, triple wall…etc.  Always use a double wall or greater thickness if your item is fragile or heavy to protect the contents in transit.

Wood crates are the safest way to transport any item during shipping. Crates can be made to any size, can be packed any way and can hold almost any weight. The more solid the objects are inside the less likely damage would occur. 

All items should be wrapped, and packed separate from one another in bubble wrap, paper, cloth, packing peanuts, and even expandable foam. Always pack items in box firmly, with appropriate spacing between box walls, and objects inside.

Bear in mind when shipping via air or ocean, the dimensions of your shipment may determine the costs to ship it.  Whenever possible, keep your package within 4” all the way around each dimension to include bubble wrap / paper wrap / peanuts or your shipment could be over dimensional costing more to ship.

Never mix breakables with non breakables, if you have no choice, always put the heavy items at the bottom, and put efficient packing between the two items.

Firm packing decreases the chance of internal damage, never pack items so tight they try to break your container apart. Rattles or movement means there is too much spacing, and your item needs more packing.

Always provide a shipping label on the outside of your package with the person’s name, address, and a contact number to insure proper delivery. It is also a good idea to provide a ship from label to let the person know who is shipping to them.  Place the shipping labels the same way you would address an envelope…placing the “To” information in the center of the package.

If you are sending multiple packages to one address, label each box in a series, (1 of 14 etc.) to insure all packages arrive together on time.  Listing a phone number is very important – for in the unfortunate event one of your packages is misplaced, they can easily locate the receiver and notify them.

Use a good strong tape to assemble boxes, and seal them. We don’t recommend scotch tape, or masking tape for it does not have enough bonding strength. We recommend packaging tape, Duct tape, or industrial strength clear tape 2-4 ml thick.

If your shipment is fragile, we suggest marking it “Fragile!” and remove any old labels or stickers that do not relate to this shipment, or the items inside. And never mark what the internal contents are on the outside of your package.  Use a packing list if that is something the receiver needs to know.