Pack It Right: 10 Tips to Ship Without Damage

Most shipping damage is preventable. Poor packing is the number one cause of items arriving broken, crushed, or soaked. Whether you're shipping a fragile gift or an everyday item, these proven packing tips will help your package survive the journey.

1. Choose the Right Box Size

Use a box that's large enough to fit your item plus at least 2 inches of cushioning on all sides. Avoid boxes that are too large (items shift and collide) or too small (you can't add adequate padding).

For heavy items, use double-walled corrugated boxes. Single-wall boxes are fine for lightweight items under 10 lbs.

2. Use a New Box When Possible

Reused boxes may look fine on the outside but have compromised structural integrity from previous shipping. If you do reuse a box, inspect it carefully — remove old labels and cover all previous markings.

3. Wrap Items Individually

Each item in a multi-item shipment should be wrapped separately. Use:

  • Bubble wrap for fragile items (wrap at least 2–3 layers)
  • Packing paper for general cushioning
  • Foam peanuts to fill voids
  • Air pillows for lightweight items

4. Cushion the Bottom First

Before placing your item in the box, lay down a 2-inch layer of cushioning on the bottom. This absorbs impact from drops, which carriers warn can occur from heights of several feet during sorting.

5. Center Your Item in the Box

Your item should sit in the center of the box, not touching any wall. After placing the item, fill all remaining gaps with cushioning material. Give the box a gentle shake — if you hear movement, add more fill.

6. Secure Electronics and Liquids Specially

  • Electronics: Use anti-static bubble wrap, remove batteries, and cushion all corners.
  • Liquids: Seal with waterproof tape, double-bag in plastic, and surround with absorbent material in case of leaks.
  • Glass/Ceramics: Wrap each piece individually and consider double-boxing.

7. Seal the Box Properly

Use pressure-sensitive packing tape (not masking tape or duct tape). Apply tape to all seams — top, bottom, and sides. The H-tape method is recommended: tape down the center seam and across both ends of the flap.

Apply at least 3 strips of tape and ensure there are no loose flaps.

8. Label Clearly and Correctly

  • Print or write the delivery address legibly and prominently on the largest face of the box.
  • Include a return address on the same face.
  • Place the shipping label in a protected label pouch, or cover it with clear tape to prevent smearing in wet conditions.
  • Place a second label with address information inside the box in case the outer label gets damaged.

9. Use "Fragile" Labels Strategically

Adding a "Fragile" or "This Side Up" label can help, but don't rely on it alone. Automated sorting equipment handles millions of packages and cannot always accommodate special labels. Your packing must protect against normal handling regardless of markings.

10. Weigh and Measure Before Dropping Off

Many shipping overcharges occur because of incorrect weight and dimensions. Use a postal scale and a tape measure. Carriers use dimensional (DIM) weight — they charge based on whichever is greater, actual weight or DIM weight. A lightweight but large box can be surprisingly expensive to ship.

Quick Packing Checklist

  • ✅ Sturdy, appropriately sized box
  • ✅ 2+ inches of cushioning on all sides
  • ✅ Items individually wrapped
  • ✅ No empty spaces (fill with packing material)
  • ✅ Sealed with pressure-sensitive tape
  • ✅ Clear, correct label on largest face
  • ✅ Return address included
  • ✅ Backup label inside the box

Taking a few extra minutes to pack properly can save you the hassle of damage claims, refund disputes, and disappointed recipients. When in doubt, over-pack rather than under-pack.