Packaging Guidelines and Tips for Shipping
How to pack a parcel for courier delivery
Properly packing your parcel before handing it over to the courier is crucial to prevent damage and ensure a seamless delivery. Depending on the service you choose, your shipment may pass through various hands, vehicles, and warehouses. Follow our guidelines to guarantee that your parcel contents reach their destination safely.
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PACKAGING MATERIALS
Packaging materials for shipping
Choose good-quality packaging materials for your shipment. This will prevent potential loss or damage to your items.
Exterior packaging materials
Cardboard box
Plastic stretch film
Duct tape
Interior packaging materials
Packing peanuts
Polystyrene sheets
Bubble wrap
PACKING GUIDELINES
How to pack a parcel for shipping
Follow the steps below to pack your parcel in the best way for shipping:
- Get a strong cardboard box, preferably a new one.
- If you opt for a used box, make sure it is strong enough and without holes or tears. Remove any old labels.
- Wrap each item individually with bubble wrap.
- Pack the items carefully inside the box.
- Fill empty spaces with packing peanuts, crumpled newspaper or other dunnage.
- Close and seal the box with adhesive tape.
Advice for internal packaging
Internal protection for your package is just as important as the external packaging.
- Pack enough cushioning materials inside the parcel so that items will not knock against each other in transit. This will minimise the risk of damage.
- Bubble wrap, polystyrene sheets and packing peanuts are examples of ideal cushioning materials.
- You can ship several items together in one parcel if they are carefully packed.
PACKAGING CARE
Special packing care for shipping different items
If the parcel you are shipping needs special packing care, check our guidelines below:
Are you shipping something else?
See all packing guidelines
OUR SHIPPING OPTIONS
Pack your shipment according to the service
Eurosender offers you shipping solutions for parcels of all shapes and sizes:
Have a different request? See all our services
NEED MORE INFORMATION?
FAQ about how to pack parcels for shipping
Will the courier pack my parcel for me?
Couriers will not pack your parcel as it is not included in the shipping price. Therefore, it is your responsibility as the shipper to ensure that your parcel is properly packed for shipping by courier.
Can I send a parcel without packaging?
No, you should not send a parcel without packaging. Courier drivers will not pick up improperly packaged parcels. You risk losing or damaging your parcel in transit. You will not be able to claim any compensation for a parcel without sufficient packaging.
Can I ship items in a suitcase?
Yes, you can, but the suitcases must be packed in a cardboard box. Shipping them without proper packaging may lead to a surcharge, pickup refusal, or damage. Damage to the packaging isn't covered by insurance, so if a suitcase is used and gets damaged, no reimbursement is possible. If you're unsure, you can always chat with us for assistance.
Can I ship a suitcase wrapped in plastic film?
No, wrapping a suitcase in plastic stretch film alone is not sufficient for shipping. While plastic film is a recommended additional protective layer, it cannot replace a cardboard box. The suitcase must be packed inside a sturdy cardboard box to provide adequate protection during transport. Couriers may refuse to take suitcases that are not packed in a cardboard box, even if wrapped in film, and additional fees may apply. For more information, check our guidelines on how to pack a suitcase for courier transport. If you have any question, feel free to chat with our support team.
Can I use a plastic box for shipping?
No, plastic boxes are not appropriate as a packaging material for shipping, since they cannot withstand the shocks of transport. We advise packing the items you are shipping inside an appropriately-sized cardboard box. Couriers may refuse to pick up shipments that are packed in plastic boxes.
Where can I find packaging materials for my parcel?
All mentioned packaging materials can be found in stationery or hardware stores. Make sure that you choose suitable packaging materials for the weight and type of item you are shipping.
Can I send a package in a bin bag?
You should not send a package in a plastic or bin bag because these materials tear easily and there is a risk that the shipping label will be torn off in transit. The best way to send your package is in a cardboard box.
Can I write on the package Fragile or This side up?
Yes, you can label your package as “fragile” but this does not mean you should not pack your delicate items properly for shipping. Make sure that the packaging itself is sufficient enough to protect the contents without signage on how to handle the parcel. For more information, check our page on shipping delicate or breakable items.