Braintree Courier Services always treat everything with care, whether we’re transporting expensive items or everyday items. But when it comes to boxes and parcels, packing is important. An extra few minutes wrapping and boxing your item securely can save a lot of hassle later.

Below is a list of tips to ensure that your items stay safe during transit.

1. Take a few minutes. Ask yourself, is this packaging strong and rigid enough to withstand impact? Is there anything I can do to strengthen it?
2. Use the right size box. If the box is too big the item will be more likely to move around inside. If it’s too small the box may burst and the contents are more likely to become damaged.
3. Usually the best way to pack something is inside a corrugated cardboard box. If you are sending heavy goods, we suggest using new double walled corrugated cartons.
4. We would usually recommend that items are sent in their original packaging. But if boxes are old or not strong enough, don’t be afraid to double box or reinforce the packing.
5. Wrap items as securely and professionally as possible to prevent any potential damage on route. If you are sending multiple items in one box, make sure they are wrapped separately so that items don’t bang into each other.
6. Tape up boxes securely. Use strong tape around the edges of boxes and packets to prevent them spilling open or becoming damaged. We recommend using a strong polypropylene or PVC packing tape, 5cm or more in width. Masking tape, cellophane or string will generally not be strong enough.
7. Fill empty space. Consider using some kind of internal padding to protect more fragile items, polystyrene, bubble wrap, corrugated cardboard and air bags all work well.
8. Label clearly. Mark boxes and packages clearly, preferably with ink that won’t smudge or be liable to water damage. If you are reusing packaging make sure any old address labels are covered up. If it’s important, mark which way up the box should go. It can also be a good idea to include address and sender details inside the parcel as well, so that even if the external label becomes detached, we can still identify and delivery your parcel.
9. Be aware of regulations. Some regulated items may require specialist packaging. Other items such as perfumes, chemicals and electronic equipment can be classified as dangerous goods. If you are not sure please call us to check.
10. If you are sending liquids, make sure they are in leak-free containers, and then sealed again in strong plastic bags. Also make sure they can’t move about too much, use dividers or wrap bottles so that they can’t touch each other and will stay the right way up.