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How to Package a Parcel So It Arrives Safely

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How to Package a Parcel So It Arrives Safely

Good packaging does two jobs: it protects your goods through a rough journey, and — done right — it keeps your shipping cost down. Here's how to pack a parcel that survives the trip and doesn't pay for empty air.

Start with the right box

Use a strong, rigid carton in good condition — not a soft, over-used box that's already lost its shape. Pick a size just big enough for your contents plus 2–3 cm of cushioning on each side. Oversized boxes are the most common cause of a surprisingly high price, because couriers bill on volumetric weight (size) when it's greater than the actual weight.

Right-size = save money. Before you seal the box, check its dimensions on our volumetric weight calculator. If the volumetric weight is far above the actual weight, a smaller box will cost less.

Cushion and immobilise the contents

  • Wrap each item individually in bubble wrap; wrap fragile items twice.
  • Fill every gap so nothing shifts — use air pillows, bubble wrap or crumpled paper. If it rattles, it isn't packed.
  • Keep contents away from the walls — that 2–3 cm cushioning layer absorbs knocks.
  • Separate multiple items so they can't rub or bang against each other.

Seal it like it'll be dropped

Use strong parcel tape (not household sticky tape) and apply the H-taping method: tape along the centre seam and across both edge seams, top and bottom. Remove or cover any old labels and barcodes so there's no confusion in transit.

Label clearly

Full addresses

Complete sender and recipient details, including a contact phone number for the destination.

Inside copy

Pop a copy of the delivery address inside the box too, in case the outer label is damaged.

Fragile? Say so

Mark fragile parcels clearly — but remember, a "Fragile" sticker is no substitute for proper cushioning.

Special cases

Liquids should be sealed and bagged; sharp items must be capped or boxed so they can't pierce the packaging; and anything hazardous or restricted needs special handling — check before you book. For cross-border and international parcels, pack for extra handling and make sure your customs paperwork matches what's in the box.

Frequently asked questions

How do I stop my parcel being damaged in transit?
Use a strong right-sized box, wrap each item in bubble wrap, fill every gap so nothing moves, keep contents away from the box walls, and seal with proper parcel tape using the H-taping method. Pack as if the box will be dropped.
Does the box size affect my shipping cost?
Yes. Couriers bill on the higher of actual weight and volumetric (size-based) weight, so an oversized box costs more. Use a carton just big enough for the contents plus cushioning, and check it on the volumetric calculator before sealing.
What tape should I use to seal a parcel?
Strong parcel/packaging tape, not household sticky tape. Tape the centre seam and both edge seams on the top and bottom (the H-taping method) for a secure seal.
How should I pack fragile items?
Wrap each fragile item twice in bubble wrap, keep it away from the box walls with plenty of cushioning, immobilise it so it can't move, and mark the box fragile — though cushioning matters far more than the sticker.

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