The Do's
- Choose the size of the package according to its content. Under-filled boxes are likely to collapse; overloaded ones may burst
- Always use high quality materials for your shipments. Consider strength, cushioning, and durability when selecting your wrapping supplies
- Choose boxes made of corrugated cardboard, with good quality outer liners. Use heavy-duty double-layered board for valuable items
- Use strapping, when suitable, as a good way to seal and secure your box. Use strong tape if a strapping machine is not available
- Put fragile goods in the centre of a package; ensuring they don’t touch the sides. Your item should be well cushioned on all sides
- Ensure liquids are stored in leak-free containers, packed with a lightweight, strong, internal material (for example, Styrofoam) and sealed with a plastic bag. Always remember that bad packaging may cause damage to surrounding items
- Seal semi-liquids, greasy or strong-smelling substances with adhesive tape, then wrap in grease resistant paper. Always remember that bad packaging may cause damage to surrounding items
- Place powders and fine grains in strong plastic bags, securely sealed and then packed in a rigid fibreboard box
- Use “arrow-up” label for non-solid materials
- Repack your gifts properly. Many goods sold in attractive packaging may not be suitable for shipping
- Use triangular tubes not round tube-type cylinders to pack rolled plans, maps and blueprints
- Remember always to pack small items in flyers appropriately
- Protect your data discs, audio and video-tapes with soft cushioning material around each item
- Complete the address clearly and completely, using uppercase letters when handwriting labels to improve readability for courier personnel
- When shipping sharp items, such as knives or scissors, ensure that you fully protect the edges and points. Heavy cardboard is suitable for this. Fix the protective material securely so that it cannot be accidentally removed in transit
- Always use cardboard dividers when sending flat, fragile material (such as vinyl records)
- When re-using a box, remove all labels and stickers. Ensure that the box is in good shape and not worn out
The Do Not's
- Do not use bags made of fabric or cloth
- Do not over seal your package. Remember that all shipments can be opened by customs authorities for inspection
- Do not use cellophane tape or rope to seal your shipment
- Do not consider “Fragile” and “Handle with care” labels as a substitute for careful packaging. They are only appropriate for information purposes