Proper Parcel Preparation: The Golden Rules of Shipping for Couriers

May 23, 2016Courier Insurance

One of the most important things in the shipping business is choosing packaging that will not only contain the item being shipped but will also ensure that it reaches its destination intact (and you don’t have to claim on your goods in transit insurance cover) . This is true for both everyday, normally shipped goods as well as specialised equipment that may require special shipping considerations, as well as for both casual shipping to friends and family or large scale business shipping. Our years of experience in the shipping industry has allowed the building up of a large knowledge base about proper shipping practices and the best ways to ensure your items make it through their journey intact and undamaged. This is particularly important when you’re shipping through a courier service, as you will have to ensure that the items are properly packed before the courier takes possession of them.

So, with that said, here are some of the things that you should focus on when you’re getting a package ready for shipment. You might be able to find more extensive or specific shipping guides out there, but this guide details the most common things that you’ll have to take care of in order to get shipping fast.

  • Make sure you have a good box – if the item is highly valuable, don’t risk reusing an old box that may have structural flaws, and always purchase a new one. If you are using an old box, make sure to the best of your ability that it doesn’t have any rips or tears, and don’t hesitate to go overboard with the packing tape just to be safe.
  • Make sure each item is protected with a layer of cushioning like air pillows or bubble wrap, and if you’re reusing air pillows or bubble wrap, make sure most of the bubbles are still intact. House moving boxes also can also be of use here.
  • Using a good delivery company also helps.
  • Make sure each item is placed as close to the centre of the box as possible so that they won’t be damaged by bumps or knocks.
  • After the item is placed in the center of the box, use a packing material like packing peanuts (styrofoam chips) to fill the rest of the box. In a pinch, you can use old crumpled up newspaper for this, but packing peanuts offer the best protection.
  • Protect small or environmentally items by placing them in plastic bags.
  • Seal boxes tightly and securely with proper packing tape.

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Example of a minibus that would require minibus insurance