Whether you’re sending a birthday gift to a friend, shipping a sold item from eBay or Vinted, or running a small business that delivers nationwide – proper packaging is crucial for ensuring your items arrive safely.
Couriers handle millions of parcels daily across the UK, and while most arrive in perfect condition, those that aren’t packaged correctly are at risk of damage or delay.
Here’s your complete guide to safe, secure, and professional packaging for courier shipping, tailored for UK senders.
Why Packaging Matters (More Than You Think)
- Protects against damage during transit and sorting.
- Improves delivery speed by reducing the chance of repacking or rejection.
- Prevents loss by ensuring labels stay intact and visible.
- Builds trust if you’re a business — customers remember how items arrive.
Step-by-Step: How to Package Items for Courier Delivery
1. Choose the Right Box or Packaging
- Use strong, double-walled cardboard boxes for heavier or fragile items.
- Don’t reuse old boxes unless they’re still rigid and damage-free.
- For small, non-fragile items (like clothing), use padded envelopes or mailing bags.
Tip: If in doubt, go slightly larger than your item and fill the extra space with protective materials.
2. Wrap Each Item Individually
Especially important for:
- Fragile items (glass, ceramics, electronics)
- Multiple items in one box
Use:
- Bubble wrap
- Foam wrap
- Air pillows
Wrap items tightly and secure with tape, so they don’t shift inside the box.
3. Fill Empty Space with Cushioning
Your goal is to stop movement during transit. Fill all gaps with:
- Packing peanuts
- Crumpled paper
- Shredded cardboard
Avoid using:
- Clothes or towels (unless you’re shipping personal belongings)
- Newspaper (it smudges and compresses easily)
4. Seal the Package Securely
Use high-quality parcel tape (not Sellotape). Tape:
- All open edges
- Bottom seam (use the “H-taping method” for strength)
- Around the box if it’s heavy or overpacked
H-taping = a strip across the centre seam + one on each edge, forming an H.
5. Label Clearly and Correctly
- Print the courier label and place it on the top surface.
- Don’t cover barcodes or important info with tape.
- Remove or cover old shipping labels if you’re reusing a box.
If handwriting the label:
- Use clear, block letters.
- Include postcode (critical for UK couriers).
- Add a return address in case of non-delivery.
6. Mark Fragile or Special Handling Items
- Use “Fragile” or “Handle with Care” stickers if needed.
- For liquids, include “This Way Up” arrows.
- If sending batteries, perfumes, or aerosols — check the courier’s restricted items list.
⚠️ Royal Mail, Evri, DPD, and others all have slightly different policies for prohibited or restricted goods.
Courier Max Size/Weight Tips Packaging Notes Royal Mail 20kg max Avoid tape over stamps/barcodes Evri (Hermes) 15kg max Bubble-wrap fragile items DPD 30kg max Use outer box and inner cushioning Yodel 10–25kg Label firmly; don’t overpack Parcelforce 30kg max Strong boxes for large/heavy goods
For Business Shippers: Branding & Professionalism
If you’re a UK business using courier services:
- Invest in custom boxes or printed tape for brand recognition.
- Always include a packing slip or thank-you note inside.
- Ensure uniform packing standards — especially if outsourcing fulfilment.
Common Packaging Mistakes to Avoid
- Using thin or worn-out boxes
- Leaving empty space inside (causes shifting/damage)
- Taping over barcodes
- Forgetting to add a return address
- Sending restricted items without checking courier rules
Final Word: Pack It Like It’s Going Through a Bumpy Ride (Because It Is)
Imagine your parcel being tossed onto vans, sorted on conveyor belts, stacked under other boxes. That’s why good packaging = peace of mind.
At CTY Transport Services, we handle packages with care — but we always recommend customers follow proper packaging guidelines to ensure smooth, safe deliveries.
Need Something Delivered Fast and Safe?
CTY Transport Services offers:
- Same-day and next-day courier services
- Local and nationwide delivery
- Business and personal shipping
- Man & Van, removals, and logistics
Get a free quote today or speak with our team about your delivery needs.
