How to Pack Things for Shipping
The goal when shipping an item, whether to the next city or around to the other side of the world, is to get the items inside the shipping container to their destinations safely and securely. Special care must be taken when shipping items that are fragile or perishable. Properly packing items for shipping the most important step to ensuring the items arrive intact. Determine what kind of item you are shipping and choose the right packing material and manner in which to enclose the item(s) inside the container.
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Things You'll Need
- Shipping containers
- Packaging tape
- Packing material
- Dry ice (optional)
- Insulated foam container (optional)
Instructions
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Choose a sturdy exterior container. Select thick, corrugated cardboard that can be securely closed with packaging tape and can be easily affixed with a shipping label or clear plastic document folder. Choose a container that is the appropriate size for the item(s) you are shipping; it should be similar in size to the item, but allow enough room for cushioning materials.
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Select durable inner packing containers as well if needed; some items should be packed individually, such as fragile objects or foodstuffs like fruit and baked goods. Select inner packaging that is close to the shape and size of the item(s) being shipped and can fit comfortably and securely in the outer shipping container.
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Choose the appropriate cushioning material, such as bubble wrap, packing peanuts, corrugated fiberboard or crumpled newsprint paper. Add cushioning material to the bottom of the shipping container and, if shipping a single item, place it in the center of the box, then cover with more cushioning material until the box is full. Choose multiple cushioning materials to ship your item(s) for added protection, such as wrapping the item in bubble wrap, then placing in a box filled with packing peanuts.
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Close the exterior shipping container (and any interior shipping containers) securely with an adhesive tape designed for shipping boxes. Ensure that the bottom and top closures are taped across the flaps several times, securing the tape to the sides of the box.
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Label the exterior shipping container with the mailing address and return address. Write address on exterior container with a permanent marker or affix shipping label to box with packaging tape or specifically designed paper labels with adhesive backing. Affix a clear plastic document sleeve to outside of box if shipping overseas or to a military base. Place all required customs documentation in the sleeve. Include a copy of all paperwork, such as a packing list and address information on the inside of the box for added protection.
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Label box as "Fragile" or "Perishable" in several locations in large lettering for items that meet either criteria.
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Tips & Warnings
Use dry ice and an insulated foam container designed for shipping if sending items that need to remain cold during shipping. Label box as perishable and ship box overnight to ensure it gets to its destination on time.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images
