Packaging Guidelines and Best Practices

Packaging Guidelines and Best Practices

Proper packaging protects your products, reduces damage claims, and avoids carrier surcharges. Follow these guidelines for shipping success.

Choosing the Right Box

Box Selection Rules:

• Use new or sturdy corrugated boxes
• Box should be 2-3 inches larger than contents on all sides
• Heavy items need double-wall boxes
• Don't reuse damaged boxes

Box Size Guidelines:

Cushioning Materials

Best Options:

• Bubble wrap - Fragile items
• Air pillows - Void fill
• Packing peanuts - Light items
• Kraft paper - Eco-friendly option
• Foam sheets - Electronics

Cushioning Rules:

• 2-3 inches on all sides
• Items shouldn't shift when shaken
• Heavier items need more cushioning

Packaging Specific Items

Fragile Items:

1. Wrap individually in bubble wrap
2. Use double-boxing for extra protection
3. Mark "FRAGILE" clearly
4. Consider shipping insurance

Liquids:

1. Seal container tightly
2. Place in plastic bag
3. Surround with absorbent material
4. Orient upright if possible

Electronics:

1. Use anti-static bags
2. Remove batteries if possible
3. Secure cables separately
4. Use original packaging when available

Avoiding Dimensional Weight Charges

Carriers charge by DIM weight when box is too large:

DIM Weight = (L × W × H) ÷ DIM Factor

Tips to Avoid DIM Charges:

• Use smallest box possible
• Consider poly mailers for soft goods
• Invest in box variety
• Custom boxes for frequent items

Sealing Your Package

Tape Requirements:

• Use 2-inch packing tape
• Apply H-pattern (center + edges)
• Reinforce seams on heavy boxes
• Don't use duct tape or masking tape

Label Placement

Best Practices:

• Place on largest flat surface
• Avoid seams and edges
• Cover with clear tape
• Remove/cover old labels

Carrier-Specific Requirements

USPS:

• Max weight: 70 lbs
• Max size: 108" length + girth
• Flat Rate boxes available

UPS:

• Max weight: 150 lbs
• Max size: 165" length + girth
• Oversized fees above 96"

FedEx:

• Max weight: 150 lbs
• Max size: 165" length + girth
• Special handling for odd shapes

Common Packaging Mistakes

1. Box too big - Causes DIM charges
2. Insufficient cushioning - Leads to damage
3. Old boxes - May fail in transit
4. Wrong tape - Boxes open during shipping
5. No inner sealing - Liquids leak

Cost-Saving Tips

1. Buy boxes in bulk - Significant savings
2. Reuse packing materials - When still effective
3. Right-size packaging - Avoid DIM charges
4. Negotiate with suppliers - Volume discounts