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Choose the correct packaging
When choosing your packaging consider its size, strength and material
Packing dos
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Use high-quality corrugated cardboard boxes. They can be single-, double- or triple-walled. We recommend double- or triple-walled for fragile or heavy (10kg+) items -
Make sure your box has enough surface area free to be labelled
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Use jiffy bags for small items
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Wrap items individually and use void filler like foam peanuts and bubble wrap to keep your items from moving around in transit
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When sending a few items in one parcel, use dividers, and place items in the middle of the box with a 5cm distance from walls and corners
Packing don’ts
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Avoid re-using boxes that may have lost their strength, or with any tears, dents and corner damage
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Avoid using bin liners or cloth/fabric bags. They don't offer protection
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Do not leave hollow spaces in the box as the contents will move about and get damaged
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Don’t over-pack or under-pack the box as it may dent or burst
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Avoid fragile items touching either each other, or the side of the parcel
Sealing your parcel
Make sure your parcel is properly sealed to prevent it from coming open in transit and potentially losing items
Sealing dos
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Use strong tape 4-5cm wide, such as nylon or vinyl tape
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Flatten any sharp edge from staples or metal fastenings, and cover with tape
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Seal securely along all edges and openings
Sealing don’ts
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Avoid using thin household tapes like cellophane or masking tape
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Avoid using string
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Avoid using staples
Labelling your parcel
It’s important that your parcel gets to its destination, so make sure you label it clearly. Here’s how to label your parcels
Make sure any UK or international address is formatted correctly using our guide to addressing your mail
Labelling dos
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If using a returns or pre-paid label, make sure all barcodes are visible and a copy of the label is placed inside the parcel in case the external one falls off
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If reusing a sturdy box make sure all old labels and barcodes are removed or covered
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Make sure the label is on top of the parcel
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Include a return address on the outside of the parcel
Labelling don’ts
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Do not cover any part of the label
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Do not fold the label over any edges
