How You can Properly Wrap and Prepare a Parcel for International Shipping

The act of shipping a parcel is easy enough if you are shipping it from the UK – but what of preparing and wrapping the actual package and whatever is in it? This takes the proper know-how and information, and you need to make sure your parcel and its contents reach its destination without getting damaged, misplaced, or worst, destroyed. If you are shipping parcels for business purposes, you may be dealing with multiple customers from different countries and locations as well. So how can you make sure that your parcel is adequately wrapped and prepared for shipping, particularly internationally? Here's how you can properly pack and prepare a parcel for international shipping.

• Choose the right tools

The first step you should take is to select the right tools. And when we say tools, you should begin with the right kind of packaging, especially when it comes to its shape. This is particularly essential because if you choose the wrong kind of packaging, the contents of the package could be at risk of damage. For instance, if you are shipping grains or powders, place them first in robust and sturdy plastic bags which you should then seal as securely as possible. Afterwards, place the bag in a high-quality and durable cardboard box, such as the white postal boxes provided by UK Packaging, which come with tabs that self-lock and have sides that are double-lined.

If you are sending off maps, blueprints, and plans, you should roll them tightly and pack them in triangular tubes rather than cylinders. For other general items, make sure you use the strongest and sturdiest cardboard boxes you can find so all the parts of the things inside will remain secure.

• Consider size and quality

The size of the box matters, and if you have a box that is under-filled, it can collapse in transit. On the other hand, an overloaded box can easily burst. It’s important to make sure that the contents of each box fit well inside the container and are as snug as possible. To make sure they are snug and will not move, make use of the appropriate padding, whether it’s bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or Styrofoam, etc.

When choosing the appropriate packaging, think carefully about the packaging’s strength and cushioning. Boxes made from kraft board or corrugated cardboard are often ideal, particularly if the contents of the box are fragile. For extra delicate or fragile contents, choose boxes with double-lined or layered sides.

• Take advantage of proper packing

As the parcel is in transit, it is more than likely that it will suffer from shocks and a bit of impact. To avoid damage to the contents, wrap each item individually using bubble wrap; you should also keep fragile objects in the centre of the box or container. Padding is essential, particularly at the box’s bottom, and you can reinforce this with a layer of cardboard prior to placing your items inside the box. It is also crucial to provide proper cushioning for the top, and for this, use another layer of cardboard and place it over the padding so your contents will not move.