Getting the best box for international shipping
TYPES OF BOXES
Choosing the right materials for boxed packaged goods
Boxes used for shipping or moving overseas vary in material and strength. Choosing the right transport box is essential when preparing packaged goods. The appropriate box material depends on what you are shipping and whether the shipment is national or international.
Light
The most common corrugated cardboard box, ideal for light or small shipments such as books and clothing.
Heavy
Thicker and stronger for extra protection, recommended for heavier shipments.
Fragile
Specially shaped to protect bottles and prevent movement. For better protection, place inside a second outer box.
Rigid
Provide greater protection due to their rigid surface. Typically shipped on a pallet because of weight.
Not recommended
Rigid plastic boxes can be damaged by impact or pressure, so they should not be used as external packaging for shipping.
BUYING BOXES
Where to buy different types of boxes for shipping or moving
You can get corrugated cardboard boxes and other types of shipping boxes in various stores and also online.
It is possible to reuse cardboard boxes for shipping in Europe or overseas, as long as they are still in good condition.
Below is an overview of where you can buy boxes for shipping or moving internationally:
| Where to buy | What you can find |
|---|---|
| Hardware stores | Corrugated cardboard boxes suitable for standard shipping. |
| DIY stores |
Heavy-duty cardboard boxes and shipping supplies, available at B&Q, Hunts of Marlow, The Range, Pickels, Homebase, Toolstation, and Moles. |
| Stationery stores | Various types of shipping boxes depending on availability. |
| Post office | Boxes designed for sending parcels by post or courier services. |
| Supermarkets and general stores | Used cardboard boxes that can be reused if they are clean and undamaged. |
| Online stores |
Platforms such as Amazon and other online retailers offering a wide range of shipping boxes in different sizes and materials. |
Stores that sell boxes for international shipping in Europe
Check the list of stores where you can buy cardboard corrugated boxes for shipping in Europe or overseas.
HOW TO SHIP
Courier services for shipping boxes internationally
PACKING GUIDELINES
How to pack a corrugated cardboard box for shipping or moving
Follow these instructions for packing your shipping boxes safely when preparing boxed packaged goods:
Choose the right box
Corrugated cardboard boxes are the best choice when shipping internationally. The box should be slightly bigger than the item.
Internal cushioning
Insert foam padding and packing peanuts to fill up empty spaces inside the transporting box. This will prevent the contents from moving.
Seal the box
Apply at least three strips of tape evenly and cover all flaps and seams on the top and bottom. Use straps for larger boxes.
Attach the label
Remove old labels. Stick the label on a flat surface on top of the transporting box, so that the courier can scan the barcode easily.
Measure your boxes after you have packed them and use our size checker tool to see which type of service fits best for your shipment.
What are the maximum box sizes for shipping in Europe or overseas?
The maximum weight and dimensions for boxed goods depend on the service type and the courier selected.
Check the shipping box size limits below for each parcel service:
Up to 30 kg (40 kg on some routes)
175 cm
L + 2W + 2H < 300 cm
Up to 70 kg
Max length of one side up to 240 cm
Up to 70 kg
300 cm (single side max 120 cm)
Check our guides
Packaging guidelines for other types of shipments:
NEED MORE INFORMATION?
FAQ on shipping internationally with different types of boxes
What is the difference between shipping vs moving vs packing boxes?
There is not much of a visible difference between these materials when shipping boxed packaged goods. In the end, it depends on how they are used:
- Shipping boxes are used for sending parcels by postal or courier service.
- Moving boxes are used for transporting personal belongings during a local or international relocation.
- Packing boxes are used for general storage or shipping internationally.
When should I ship with wooden boxes?
Wooden crates and boxes are suitable for shipping fragile items or oddly-shaped objects on pallets, such as plants, a piano or a motorbike.
Can I ship a plastic box?
One or more plastic boxes can be shipped if they are packed inside a sturdy cardboard box.
Can I ship multiple boxes in Europe and overseas?
Yes, you can ship multiple boxes either by booking a package service and indicating the number of parcels or booking the Pallet Delivery service.
Can I ship boxed packaged goods of different sizes in one order?
Yes, you can ship boxes of different dimensions and weights in the same order. Each parcel will be individually labelled and handled as a single package.
How should I attach the label to the shipping box?
Stick the shipping label on a smooth flat surface of the box. You can also put a copy inside the parcel, in case the external label gets damaged in transit.