Shipping delicate and breakable items
Before you ship any breakable product, make sure you know how to pack delicate items carefully for shipping with courier services. Follow our guide on shipping delicate items and find out how to pack and ship breakables in the best way.
What are you interested in?
Breakable or delicate items are usually restricted or prohibited for shipping. Please note that insurance may not apply.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
What to know before shipping delicate items or breakables
It is essential to protect delicate items as much as possible for shipping to avoid possible damage. Follow these steps to make sure your breakables will be safely shipped and delivered:
- Properly protect your delicate items for shipping internationally. Appropriate packaging materials are of utmost importance to guarantee your goods will be delivered in one piece.
- Measure the package dimensions and weight to determine the best shipping service for you.
- Check if you are required to print and attach the shipping label to your parcel. We will send this information via email once the service is confirmed.
- Make sure someone is present at the pick-up and delivery addresses when booking a courier service for your delicate items.
HOW TO SHIP
Solutions for shipping delicate items by courier
PACKING GUIDE
How to pack delicate and breakable items for shipping
Our logistics experts have put together recommendations on how to pack delicate items for shipping internationally. The following guidelines apply for vases, plates, glass, canvas art or if you are shipping other delicate items with courier services.
- Wrap each item individually in bubble wrap and secure with tape. When shipping glasses or any item of similar shape, fill the piece with crumpled paper before wrapping it.
- When shipping oddly-shaped items, add crumpled paper or an additional box to make the shape “less odd”.
- Place the item in a previously padded cardboard box and fill voids with more cushioning materials. Make sure the objects are immovable and seal the box with adhesive tape.
- For additional protection, pad a bigger box with polystyrene sheets, insert the smaller box inside and seal the larger box.
- You can also add warning signs such as “Fragile” or “Handle with care” on your box, however, if the courier service is not specifically for delicate items, they are not obliged to handle the shipment with extra care.
RECOMMENDED
Best option for shipping breakable items
When shipping breakable items for a local or international relocation, the safest option is to book a Van Delivery Service. With this service, you will have an entire vehicle reserved solely for you that will go directly from the collection to delivery locations.
Important: When booking a Van Delivery, you do not have to comply with any packaging requirements. However, we strongly recommend wrapping the breakables you are moving in bubble wrap and packing them in a cardboard box for maximum protection.
Read more about shipping breakable items
We have compiled dedicated guides about shipping various delicate and breakable items with courier services:
NEED MORE INFORMATION?
FAQ on shipping delicate and breakable items internationally
How do you post or send a breakable item?
Your main concern when shipping delicate items by post or courier should be guaranteeing that the package is safely protected so that the item can reach its destination intact. Since glassware and other breakables are great gift ideas, people often decide to wrap breakables in soft items such as clothes for protection. However, we strongly advise using appropriate packaging materials when shipping delicate items since you send them at your own risk.
What is the best and safest way to ship breakable items?
The best solution for shipping breakable items is the Van Delivery Service. An entire vehicle will be dedicated to your load, reducing the risk of damage associated with the multiple loading and unloading operations that take place in a standard shipment.
Does the post office charge extra for shipping delicate items?
Some postal services may charge an additional fee for shipping breakable items as they require special handling. When you book shipping with Eurosender, you get an instant quote on our platform with no extra or hidden fees. Just make sure the delicate items are packed properly for shipping as they not covered by insurance.
How much does it cost to ship delicate items by courier?
Prices vary greatly depending on the shipping route, parcel size and also whether you choose a specialist delicate item courier or general courier service. Specialist delicate item couriers charge higher rates for shipping breakables because of the special handling, packaging and transport solutions they provide. If you are looking for lower prices, you can opt for general courier services but you are responsible for packing your delicate items carefully for shipping.
Will I be compensated if delicate items in my parcel break during shipping?
No, since breakable items cannot be covered by shipping insurance, you will not be entitled to compensation for delicate items that break during shipping.
Do couriers provide packing services for shipping breakable items?
Couriers do not provide parcel packing services as it is not included in the shipping price. Therefore, it is your responsibility as the shipper to ensure that your parcel of delicate items is properly packed for shipping by courier.
Where can I get packing materials for shipping delicate items?
You can purchase packaging materials such as cardboard boxes in most hardware or stationery stores. Make sure that you choose suitable packaging materials for the weight and type of breakable item you are shipping. We recommend using plenty of cushioning to make sure your item is well-protected for transport.