We’ve all been there; eagerly waiting for a parcel to arrive, only to find it damaged or poorly packed when it finally lands at our doorstep.
If you’re a business owner or even a casual seller, ensuring your goods arrive in tip-top shape is not just a nice to have; it’s essential for customer satisfaction and repeat business.
So, how do you get it right? Whether you're shipping across the street or across the country, understanding how to package and ship items correctly can save you money, prevent issues, and keep your customers smiling.
Here at eBPak, we’re in the business of making packaging boxes and cartons effective, affordable, reliable, and stress-free. That’s why we’ve pulled together our top packaging tips to help your shipments arrive in perfect condition every single time.
Choose the Right Packaging for the Job
First things first, packaging a parcel starts with selecting the correct type of packaging. One size definitely does not fit all. Fragile items like glassware or electronics need cushioned protection, while documents might only need a durable envelope.
Common packaging materials include:
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Cardboard boxes – Ideal for most shipments. Look for double-walled boxes, such as our best seller 400 x 280 x 180mm Double Wall Heavy Duty Shipping Carton, for heavier or fragile goods.
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Padded mailers – Great for smaller, lighter items like jewellery, books, or cosmetics.
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Satchels – Lightweight, waterproof, and perfect for clothing or soft items.
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Bubble wrap and void fill – Effective for absorbing shock and preventing items from moving around.
When in doubt, overestimate the level of protection you need. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Take Internal Protection seriously
One of the biggest mistakes people make when learning how to package and ship is underestimating what happens inside the box. Parcels get tossed, stacked, and shuffled during transport. If your item can move inside its box, it’s at risk.
Use these packaging tips to secure your shipment internally:
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Wrap each item individually with protective materials such as bubble wrap, foil or foam sheets.
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Fill any empty space with paper, air pillows, or packing peanuts.
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Avoid overpacking as an overstuffed box can burst under pressure.
A good rule of thumb? Give the box a gentle shake. If you hear anything moving, add more padding before sealing it up.
Seal It Like You Mean It
Strong tape is a small investment that pays off in big ways. Avoid the temptation to use standard sticky tape. It's simply not cut out for the job.
For the best results:
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Use packaging-grade tape at least 48mm wide.
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Apply the H-taping method to seal along the centre and both edges of the box opening.
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Reinforce weak spots and corners, especially if your parcel is heavy.
Make sure the box is dry and clean before taping; dust or moisture can weaken the seal and increase the risk of breakage.
Label Clearly and Correctly
It sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how often shipments get delayed due to poor labelling. Whether you’re running a growing eCommerce brand or just sending a gift, clear labelling is crucial.
Double-check for:
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Correct recipient name and address
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Return address
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Legible handwriting or printed labels
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Shipping barcodes not obscured by tape or wrinkles
If your item is fragile, add stickers or labels that say "FRAGILE" or "THIS SIDE UP." While couriers might not always follow them, it adds a layer of precaution.
Consider External Conditions
Australia’s weather is no joke. Scorching summers, sudden rain, and humidity can all impact your shipment; especially when packaging a parcel for long-distance travel. So, it's important to plan ahead.
Some smart precautions include:
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Waterproof satchels for rain-prone areas
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Thermal insulation for temperature-sensitive items
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Moisture-resistant packing (like silica gel packs) for electronics or perishables
Always consider external conditions like weather and handling during transit. Factoring these in before shipping can help protect and secure your package from common damage risks.
Make the Most of the Unboxing Experience
Want to really impress your customers? Add a little thought to the unboxing experience. This is especially important for small businesses that want to build loyalty and brand recognition.
Ways to elevate your packaging:
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Include a thank-you note or branded insert
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Use eco-friendly or recyclable materials
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Keep things neat and organised inside the box
It’s not just about protection, it’s about presentation. A great unboxing experience can lead to customer photos, social media shares, and word-of-mouth referrals.
Test Your Packaging
If you’re sending a new product or switching to different packaging materials, do a test run. Ship it to yourself or a friend to see how it holds up in transit. This small step can help you identify potential weaknesses before they cost you money or reputation.
Keep in mind the weight and dimensions. If your packaging adds too much bulk, you may pay more in postage. Finding the balance between protection and practicality is the name of the game.
Be Proactive for Stress-Free Shipping
Rushing the packing process is a recipe for disaster. Always check you have followed the necessary preparations and requirements for your package before sending it off.
Give yourself enough time to do it properly, especially during peak seasons like Christmas or Black Friday when couriers are under pressure.
Being prepared is not just about efficiency, it’s about ensuring your shipment survives the journey.
Think Inside and Outside the Box
At the end of the day, following the best practice for packing shipments is about respecting your customers, protecting your products, and building a reputation for reliability.
Whether you’re sending one parcel a week or hundreds each day, applying the right packaging tips makes all the difference.
Choose the right materials, secure your items properly, and always think one step ahead. It might take a few extra minutes, but the payoff is worth it.
Ready to Pack Like a Pro?
At eBPak, we stock everything you need to package with confidence. From sturdy cardboard boxes and mailers, to protective wraps and eco-friendly options. We help you get it right from the get-go with affordable, high-quality packaging solutions that actually do the job.
So next time you're wondering how to package and ship something properly, start with the right tools. Shop online now or contact us via our website, and make sure your next shipment arrives in perfect condition.