Good packing does two jobs: it keeps the item safe through sorting hubs and vehicles, and it keeps your shipping cost down by avoiding wasted space. Here is how to get both right.
Choose the right box
- Use a new or sturdy corrugated box. Old boxes lose strength.
- Pick a box that leaves about 5 cm of space around the item for cushioning — no more. Extra space increases the volumetric weight you pay for.
- Soft items like clothing can go in a poly mailer instead of a box.
Cushion every item
- Wrap fragile items individually in bubble wrap, with extra layers on corners and edges.
- Fill gaps with bubble wrap, air pillows or crumpled paper so nothing moves when you shake the box.
- Keep heavy items at the bottom and lighter items on top.
- For liquids that are allowed, seal the cap with tape and place the bottle in a zip bag.
Seal it securely
Use wide packing tape and the H-taping method: tape along the centre seam and across both edge seams, on the top and the bottom. Avoid string, paper tape or cellotape — they fail under load.
Label it clearly
- Stick the shipping label flat on the largest surface, not over a seam.
- Remove or cover old labels and barcodes.
- Write the receiver’s phone number clearly — it helps the delivery agent.
- Mark fragile parcels, but remember that packing, not a sticker, protects the item.
Measure before you book
Measure the packed box at its widest points and weigh it. Accurate numbers give you an accurate price and avoid weight disputes later. Then compare courier rates for that size and weight.