Discover how to prepare a parcel correctly, safely, and efficiently: all the essential steps explained in a simple and practical way.
Table of Contents
- Why it’s important to prepare a parcel properly
- Choosing the right box: size and strength
- Packaging materials: what to use (and what to avoid)
- Labelling: how to write on a parcel for shipping
- Final checks before sending
Ever been unsure how to prepare a parcel for shipping without making mistakes? This practical guide takes you step-by-step through choosing materials, sealing the box, and labelling, ensuring a safe and cost-effective delivery.
Why it’s important to prepare a parcel properly
Carefully packing a parcel is more than just a practical step: it means protecting its contents, reducing the risk of damage, and speeding up delivery. A poorly packaged parcel can jeopardise its arrival or lead to additional costs. Preparing it with care helps you save time, avoid complaints, and improve the experience for both you and the recipient.
Choosing the right box: size and strength
Choosing the box is the first crucial step. It must be sturdy, intact, and proportional to the contents to ensure protection and stability during transit. It's important that the box holds its shape under pressure and shows no signs of wear and tear. Avoid boxes that are too large, which would require excessive void fill, or damaged ones, which could compromise the safety of the shipment.
What size should you choose?
Choose a box that is proportional to its contents. Too much empty space can cause items to shift and get damaged, while too little space risks damaging them. If you choose to send with InPost, ensure your parcel fits within our allowed dimensions: Size A (max 8 x 38 x 64 cm), Size B (max 19 x 38 x 64 cm), or Size C (max 41 x 38 x 64 cm), while always ensuring compatibility with our lockers.
When can you reuse a box?
You can reuse a box, and doing so is a responsible choice that helps reduce waste and environmental impact. However, make sure it is in perfect condition: free from tears, dents, or previous writing. Check that its structure is solid and shows no signs of weakening. Carefully remove all old labels to avoid delivery errors and ensure the box maintains its original shape during packing.
Packaging materials: what to use (and what to avoid)
Good packaging protects against knocks, moisture, and crushing. Use filling materials like crumpled paper, bubble wrap, polystyrene packing peanuts, or air pillows.
Packing tape and internal protection
The best tape to use is PVC or polypropylene packing tape. Avoid using standard Sellotape or paper tape. Securely seal every edge of the box, especially the bottom. For internal protection, wrap each item individually and use padding to prevent any movement.
Labelling: how to write on a parcel for shipping
The label must be clear, complete, and placed on the top of the parcel. Apply it to a flat, smooth surface, avoiding edges and seams. It's best to print the label using a good-quality printer to ensure the barcode is sharp and can be scanned easily. The label must include the recipient's name, address, postcode, city, and phone number. Try to avoid placing it over tape or on curved surfaces, and protect it with a transparent adhesive pouch, if available, to improve its durability and legibility.
Pay attention to shipping codes and symbols
If the parcel contains fragile or delicate items, it's important to use the correct markings, such as "Fragile" or "This Way Up," to indicate that extra care is needed during transit.
Final checks before sending
Before you send your parcel, check:
- The box is securely sealed and has no weak spots;
- The label is legible and firmly attached;
- The parcel's weight is within the service's accepted limits.
FAQs
Choose a sturdy box, protect the contents well with filling material, and seal the parcel with strong packing tape. Apply the label so it is clearly legible.
Paper, bubble wrap, polystyrene peanuts, packing tape, and double-walled cardboard boxes. Avoid flimsy bags or unstable materials.
Use printed labels or write clearly with a permanent marker. Include all the necessary details: name, address, postcode, city, and phone number.
Sì, puoi riutilizzare una scatola se è ancora integra, resistente e pulita. Prima di usarla, rimuovi vecchie etichette, codici a barre e adesivi di spedizione, così da evitare errori durante il trasporto.
Con InPost puoi spedire pacchi fino a un massimo di 25 kg, nel rispetto delle dimensioni previste dal formato scelto. Il formato più grande arriva fino a 41 x 38 x 64 cm.
