Packaging your goods in a safe and secure manner is one of the first steps to ensuring it arrives in pristine condition.
This is especially true for fragile and heavy items as they require additional planning. We will explore the types of boxes that are best suited for each item, and the best methods for packing and positioning fragile and heavy items to ensure safe transportation.
Fragile Items
Step 1
The first step to protecting your goods is selecting a box. One may think that a larger box would provide increased protection for your fragile items but this is quite the opposite. It is important that you select a box that is a close fit (about 4cm-5cm around the item) as this will provide some room for cushioning in addition to being a cost-effective strategy. For extremely fragile items composed of glass, porcelain, etc., we suggest placing a box within a box or ordering a custom shipping box.
Step 2
Once you have selected a box, wrap the item in a couple layers bubble wrap or green wrap to provide a soft cushion while also filling any extra space on the sides as well as the top and bottom between the item and box with packing peanuts, crumpled paper, or air pillows for extra security.
Step 3
Once these have been put into place, temporary seal the package so you can move the box in all directions without hearing any shifts.
Step 4
Finally, make sure to label your box as fragile with clear and bold labels to bring attention to those who will handle it.
Heavy Items
Step 1
These items require not only proper box selection, but also the consideration of using a pallet. The use of a pallet helps with securing the items as these are most likely to be moved by machinery rather than human power; particularly when it is being loaded or shipped. Whether you select to use a pallet or not, a durable package is still necessary for transport.
Step 2
Your box itself should be corrugated (thicker cardboard) and the bottom of the box should have extra layers of tape to reinforce the seal.
Step 3
Similar to fragile items, we suggest you wrap and cushion your items so they stay in place and do not shift during transport. When placing your items within the box, place the heaviest items in the center as an additional measure to prevent shifting.
Step 4
When beginning your final checks, temporarily seal the package so you can move the box in all directions without hearing any shifts. Also consider breaking down any especially heavy items into multiple boxes as the heavier the box the more likely it is to break open or being dropped.
Step 5
Finally, as always. make sure to label your box as heavy with clear and bold labels to bring attention to those who will handle it.
We hope this helps when you are securing your fragile or heavy items for shipment.
Still have questions? Feel free to connect with us via our contact page for more information!