How do I package my parcel to protect it from damage?

It's vital that your goods are packed well in preparation for shipments going via any courier service.  That way, if they do get damaged (thankfully, it's rare) you can make a claim against the courier company. Every parcel sent via courier is passed down a robotic conveyor belt with no human intervention, so your parcel needs to be robust enough to withstand this kind of handling.

If your item is fragile eg. glass, we can't advise you to send your goods via a courier service. If you do, it will be at your own risk.

Because things do sometimes go wrong P4D automatically offers cover against loss or damage on every shipment you send as part of our customer service focus. You can buy extra cover without breaking the bank, should you need it.

P4D Tip: Take photos of your shipment before you send it. If you need to make a claim against the courier company you can send these on to us to prove that your goods were adequately packed and the box of good quality. The label with the booking number should be visible in your photo to avoid any dispute.

• Wrap each item carefully in bubble wrap
  All shipments are unavoidably subject to shocks during transportation. Wrapping them separately will ensure the items don't cause damage to each other.
  
  
• Use the right box
  We recommend you use corrugated boxes in good condition. You can identify the strength of the box by reviewing the Box Makers Certificate (BMC), which can be found on the base of most shipping boxes.
  
  
• Fill the base of the box with cushioning materials
  Cushioning your shipment on all sides helps to make sure it arrives in good shape. The contents should never come in to contact with the outer packaging.
  
  
• Create a double wall at the bottom of the box
  Insert a double corrugated card on top of the loose fill to create a double wall at the bottom of the box.
  
  
• Add further cushioning
  Add more loose fill on top of the card in preparation for the item.
  
  
• Insert a double wall divider
  This will prevent the contents coming into contact with the outer packaging on the sides of the box.
  
  
• Surround the wrapped object with cushioning
  This will prevent the item from moving during transportation. The cushioning should be able to absorb shock and vibrations
  
  
• Insert a card to create another double wall on top
  Place a firm card on top of the cushioning material to make sure everything stays in place. Allow some room to place extra cushioning on top.
  
  
• Extra protection on top
  Protect the upper side of your package by filling up the remaining space with more cushioning material.
  
  
• Close the package carefully
  Make sure the box is closed carefully, so no cushioning material can get out. Using a good quality, rigid box with intact flaps is advisable.
  
  
• Close the box securely with strong tape
  Seal your package with pressure-sensitive plastic tape or water-activated paper tape, preferably around 50mm in width.
  
  
• Add the finishing touches
  Do not use strings or cords: they can get tangled up in automated sorting equipment. Place your address and shipping labels on the top surface of the box, avoid putting them on seams, closures or on the sealing tape.
  
  
• Never strap two parcels together
  If you have two parts to a delivery, do not strap them together and send them as one parcel as this could result in a loss and you won't be compensated. If you have two parcels, send them separately.

Environmentally friendly packaging.

« Back to FAQs