International Courier Packing Tips

Expert Guidelines for Safe and Secure International Shipping

✓Professional Packing Tips
✓Customs Documentation
✓Fragile Item Protection

Why Proper Packing Matters

When shipping parcels internationally, proper packing is crucial to ensure your items arrive safely and in perfect condition. International shipments face longer transit times, multiple handling points, and varying environmental conditions that can damage inadequately protected packages.

At Global Parcel Services, we have compiled 24 years of shipping expertise into this comprehensive packing guide. Whether you are sending business documents, personal gifts, or commercial products, following these professional packing tips will significantly reduce the risk of damage during international transit.

Our expert guidelines cover everything from choosing the right packaging materials to preparing customs documentation, ensuring your international shipments reach their destination safely and efficiently.

Essential International Packing Tips

Follow these professional guidelines to ensure your packages arrive safely at their international destination

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Choose the Right Box

  • • Use a sturdy, corrugated cardboard box appropriate for your items size and weight
  • • Avoid using old or damaged boxes that may not provide sufficient protection
  • • Ensure the box is large enough to accommodate protective padding around your items
  • • For heavy items (over 20kg), use reinforced boxes with double-wall construction
  • • Select boxes with a minimum edge crush strength of 32 ECT for international shipping
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Secure Fragile Items

  • • Wrap each fragile item individually in bubble wrap or foam padding
  • • Place fragile items in the center of the box, away from all sides
  • • Use additional padding around fragile items to prevent movement
  • • Never place fragile items directly against box walls
  • • Consider using specialized packaging for electronics or glassware
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Quality Packing Materials

  • • Use strong packing tape (minimum 2 inches wide) to seal all seams
  • • Fill empty spaces with packing peanuts, air pillows, or crumpled paper
  • • Apply tape in an H pattern on both top and bottom of the box
  • • Use water-activated tape for superior adhesion and security
  • • Invest in quality bubble wrap with appropriate bubble size for your items
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Moisture Protection

  • • Wrap items in plastic to protect against moisture and spills
  • • Seal electronic items in waterproof bags with desiccant packets
  • • Use moisture barrier bags for items sensitive to humidity
  • • Consider climate conditions in destination countries
  • • Add extra moisture protection for shipments to tropical regions
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Clear Labeling

  • • Write addresses clearly using waterproof markers or labels
  • • Include complete recipient and sender information
  • • Attach customs documentation securely to the outside of the package
  • • Use FRAGILE and HANDLE WITH CARE labels when appropriate
  • • Include contact phone numbers for both sender and recipient
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Customs Documentation

  • • Complete all customs forms accurately and legibly
  • • Provide detailed descriptions of contents with values
  • • Check destination country import restrictions and regulations
  • • Include commercial invoices for business shipments
  • • Ensure all required permits and certificates are included

Advanced Packing Techniques

Professional methods for protecting valuable and sensitive items during international transit

Double Boxing for Maximum Protection

For extremely valuable or fragile items, double boxing provides an additional layer of security. Pack your item in a smaller box with appropriate padding, then place that box inside a larger box with 2-3 inches of cushioning material on all sides.

  • • Ideal for electronics, artwork, and delicate instruments
  • • Ensures protection against impact from multiple directions
  • • Recommended for high-value items over $500

Weight Distribution and Balance

Proper weight distribution prevents damage and ensures safe handling throughout the shipping process. Heavy items should be placed at the bottom center of the box, with lighter items on top.

  • • Keep the center of gravity low and centered
  • • Use internal dividers for multiple items
  • • Ensure no single side bears excessive weight

Temperature-Sensitive Items

Items sensitive to temperature changes require specialized packaging solutions. Consider insulated packaging, thermal protection, and expedited shipping for temperature-critical items.

  • • Use insulated packaging for pharmaceuticals and cosmetics
  • • Include temperature monitoring devices when necessary
  • • Choose faster shipping options to minimize exposure time

Essential Packing Materials

Choose the right materials for professional-grade package protection

Bubble Wrap

Essential for protecting fragile items. Choose bubble size based on item fragility.

  • • Small bubbles (3/16"): Delicate items
  • • Large bubbles (1/2"): General protection
  • • Anti-static versions for electronics

Foam Padding

Provides cushioning and shock absorption for valuable items.

  • • Polyethylene foam: Lightweight protection
  • • Polyurethane foam: Superior cushioning
  • • Custom-cut foam for perfect fit

Packing Tape

Strong adhesive tape is crucial for secure box sealing.

  • • Acrylic tape: General purpose
  • • Water-activated tape: Maximum security
  • • Minimum 2-inch width recommended

Void Fill Materials

Prevents items from moving inside the box during transit.

  • • Air pillows: Lightweight and efficient
  • • Packing peanuts: Traditional protection
  • • Kraft paper: Eco-friendly option

Moisture Barriers

Protects items from humidity and moisture damage.

  • • Plastic wrapping: Basic protection
  • • Barrier bags: Enhanced moisture control
  • • Desiccant packets: Humidity absorption

Labels & Markers

Clear labeling ensures proper handling and delivery.

  • • Waterproof labels: All-weather durability
  • • Permanent markers: Clear addressing
  • • Handling labels: Special care instructions

Frequently Asked Packing Questions

Expert answers to common international shipping packing concerns

What type of box should I use for international shipping?

Use a sturdy, new corrugated cardboard box appropriate for your item's size and weight. Avoid used or damaged boxes as they may not provide sufficient protection during international transit.

How do I pack fragile items for international courier service?

Wrap each fragile item individually in bubble wrap or foam padding. Place items in the center of the box away from sides, and fill empty spaces with packing materials to prevent movement during shipping.

What packing materials are recommended for international shipping?

Use strong packing tape, bubble wrap, foam padding, packing peanuts, air pillows, and crumpled paper. For moisture protection, use plastic wrap or sealed plastic bags.

Do I need special documentation for international packages?

Yes, you need proper customs documentation including commercial invoices, packing lists, and any required permits. Check destination country regulations for specific requirements.

How can I protect my package from moisture during shipping?

Use plastic wrap to seal items, place items in waterproof bags, and consider adding desiccant packets to absorb humidity inside the package.

Should I double box my items for international shipping?

For valuable or extremely fragile items, double boxing provides extra protection. Place the packed item in a smaller box, then place that box inside a larger box with additional padding.

Need Professional Packing Services?

Let our experts handle the packing for you. With 24 years of experience, we ensure your items are packed to international shipping standards for safe delivery worldwide.

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