Best Practices for Packing Fragile Items for Shipping
Sending a fragile item on its way can be a stressful experience. At our core, Mail Call in Santa Fe, NM, understands the concern that comes with placing your valuable or sentimental items in the hands of a shipping carrier. Over the years, we’ve managed countless shipments, and that experience has taught us that a successful delivery starts long before the package is picked up. It begins with a thoughtful and meticulous packing process, so let us share a few foundational practices to help you get started!
It All Starts with the Right Box
The temptation to reuse an old box is understandable, but we always advise against it for fragile items. A box loses a significant amount of its structural integrity with each use. We recommend starting with a new, double-walled corrugated box that is appropriately sized. It should be large enough to accommodate the item(s) plus at least two inches of cushioning on all sides, but not so large that the item(s) can shift excessively during transit.
The Art of Cushioning & Wrapping
Every fragile belonging should be wrapped individually. Our go-to material is bubble wrap, with the bubbles facing inward to provide maximum cushioning against the item’s surface; use several layers and secure it with packing tape. For items with hollow spaces, like a vase, be sure to fill the interior with packing paper or other material to provide internal support.
Employ the Box-in-Box Method
For particularly valuable or extremely delicate items, consider using the box-in-box technique. After you’ve packed your item in its initial box with proper cushioning, place that box inside a second, larger shipping box. Fill the space between the inner and outer box on all sides with at least two to three inches of packing peanuts or other void-fill material. This method of packing and shipping provides an exceptional buffer against shocks, drops, and vibrations during transit.
A Secure Seal for Safe Transit
Your local or international shipping packing efforts are only as good as your final seal. Use a high-quality, pressure-sensitive plastic packing tape that is at least two inches wide. We recommend the H-taping method, applying tape across the center seam and then along the two edge seams, forming a capital “H.” This ensures the box won’t accidentally open. Finally, label the box clearly on multiple sides with “FRAGILE” and “This Side Up” indicators to inform every handler along the journey to treat the package with extra care.
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