How To Send Fragile Parcels By Post
Fragile parcel shipping is an expensive and complicated process that not everyone understands. If you're looking for advice on how to package, label, and ship your fragile package, you've come to the right place.
The last thing you want is to spend precious time, effort, and money on buying a special gift for a friend or loved one only to find that it arrived damaged.
For this reason, when sending a fragile item by post, it is important to take extra care when packing the parcel. Particularly when shipping fragile items like glass, ceramic, or pottery.
The other thing is, consider using a courier service or specialist fragile goods delivery company to ship your items. This is particularly important if you are dealing with expensive, delicate, or difficult-to-package items.
These types of courier services have long years of experience and know how to keep packages safe during transit. They also use protective packaging and even have tracking software so you can see exactly where your package is at any given time.
It's also important to make sure that the packaging meets the necessary standards for your chosen courier company. Always check your courier's website for their individual packaging guidelines.
Packing and Labelling Your Fragile Parcel
In some ways, packing fragile items isn't as straightforward as it might seem. This is because you may need to pack them in a way that won't add unnecessary strain to the item itself.
For example, you may want to use an air pillow for delicate items like glass or crystal and these are great for protecting your household items from rubbing against each other during shipping.__ The downside is that they can be heavy and will make your carefully wrapped parcel feel even more cumbersome__.
If you're careful about how you pack fragile items, though, there are plenty of simple steps you can take to do the job with minimal risk of damage.
Here's how:
- Ensure everything's packed properly first by using a strong packing material such as bubble wrap or tissue paper between each item and its container. If multiple pieces aren't in contact with one another, there's less chance of breaking or scratching when they're shipped.
- Don't use too much tape on delicate objects like paintings or china; just a thin layer around the edges can keep it from shifting during parcel transit and cracking when it lands on a hard surface (e.g., when the post office eventually drops it). Avoid over-taping anything else because the extra layers will increase its chances of splitting while being shipped.
- If something needs to be wrapped up in multiple layers of bubble wrap, package it inside two separate boxes instead: one for outer packaging and another for inner packaging this way, if something does break, damage occurs only to one box at most rather than both simultaneously.
To make sure your package arrives safely, try the following tips:
- Provide shock protection. This can be done by padding the item with plenty of cushioning material such as bubble wrap, foam pellets, or foam corner protectors.
- Use a double-wall box. Larger items will require higher strength boxes, which you can get from packaging suppliers.
- Securely tape the bottom and top flaps of the box closed with strong adhesive packaging tape.
- Clearly mark the box “FRAGILE” to ensure it receives extra attention during transit.
- Choose a reputable courier service that offers insurance cover on fragile goods. If you are sending an especially valuable item, check what value they are able to insure against first. Some fragile goods couriers may have limits on their insurance coverage for specific goods (such as antiques).
Finding a Fragile Goods Courier
When you’re shipping something fragile, you need to find a courier who can handle your shipment with care. Here are some tips to help you choose the right courier for your fragile goods:
Is the courier insured?
It’s important to know if your fragile item courier is insured for any damage that may occur during transit. You should ask about their insurance policy so you know what’s covered in case of an accident or loss. Most reputable fragile goods delivery specialists have insurance cover to cover any breakage or damage caused by the courier whilst they are transporting your parcel.
How much experience do they have?
As with any business, experience counts when it comes to delivering goods safely and efficiently. A fragile goods courier who has been around for a while will likely have more experience than one who is just starting out.
You will benefit from this experience in a variety of ways, including the ability to handle sensitive items without causing damage. If you have ever spent time packing your own fragile items, then you will understand that it can take quite a bit of practice to get the technique right.
A good courier will also be able to handle the practical side of things effectively, such as planning routes and picking up items on time. This is especially important if you need your item transported immediately, as you do not want delays in its arrival.
Do they have a good reputation?
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a courier service is how reputable they are. Do they have a good reputation? Are they reliable and trustworthy?
Before choosing any courier service, check online reviews and make sure you get plenty of positive feedback. If there are negative reviews or complaints about the company, then it may not be right for you.
Do they have the right equipment?
It's no good trusting a delivery services company that doesn't have the tools necessary to protect your fragile parcels from any potential damage. If possible, see what packaging materials they use and find out whether they're of sufficient quality to ensure the safe delivery of your parcel.
Top Tips For Sending Fragile Items
- Use a reputable courier who has experience in the secure delivery of fragile parcels.
- Check your courier's delivery requirements and the type of protection they offer.
- Use a box that is a little larger than the item you are sending.
- Use suitable materials to keep the fragile item secure and protected in transit.
- Use a box that is in good condition. Old or damaged boxes will not protect your item in transit.
- Do not use masking tape or string on your box.
Fragile Goods Shipping To the UK
If you are looking to ship your fragile packages to or from the UK, you'll find several reputable couriers here - The best fragile couriers UK.