So you're packing a box to ship an item. Seems pretty simple, right? Actually, packing a box for shipping is a science. You need to keep in mind the weight, size, and even how you tape it up. Here are four solid tips for packing a box for shipping.
1. Choose the right box. Don't pick a box that's too large -- you'll end up paying much more than necessary for shipping costs. And don't skimp -- be sure your box is the right strength. There are different kinds of cardboard thickness. On the bottom of the box should be its weight capacity. The minimum weight limit should be two hundred pounds per square inch.
2. Tape it up right. Tape your box where the 2 smaller ends are folded first and then the 2 larger flaps after. That way you can have one whole strip of tape across the whole bottom and top of the box. Running the tape across a couple of times is a good idea as well as across the ends. Masking tape, duct tape and scotch tape are not strong enough to hold boxes with UPS and Federal Express. Packing tape is not expensive. It is worth getting a roll of clear or tan packing tape.
3. Make sure your box is full. All boxes should be packed fully. Leaving no extra space within the box is the best way to ensure safe arrival. If your box is too big, cut it down or fill it with paper. Imagine a 50 pound, 70 pound or 100 pound box landing on your box. Could it withstand the impact without caving in? This is surely one of the most important things you should keep in mind.
4. Use the right filler. Packing china and glass is tricky, but not hard. Double bubble wrap the item, pack it tightly in one box, then add it to a double wall box with a minimum of 2-3" of peanuts packed fully. The key is to add a shock absorber and cushion so your items arrive safely at their destination. If you have more than one glass piece, put several pieces into the first box, all bubbled with peanuts to fill any space that might cause the items to move. Then add it to your double wall box with peanuts on the top, bottom and sides. For larger boxes, you may need to sit on the boxes to close them when they're fully packed.
Imagine when these boxes get on a conveyor belt, one box after another, landing at the bottom, your box should withstand bigger and heavier boxes being stacked on top.
Use quality, strong boxes and tape, bubble your fragile items and pack the box fully. If you can sit on the box and it caves in a bit, add more filling. As full as you might think it is, it will shift during transit and lose a lot of its fullness by the time it gets to the destination.
Good luck and happy packing!
If we can answer questions about packing, shipping or freight, please call Pack n Send in Houston at 713-266-1450. We sell discounted boxes and packing supplies in our Houston area storefront.
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