When your company ships out merchandise or items, you need to ensure it will survive the trip long enough to reach its intended destination. Packaging may be easier said than done, as you cannot predict the specific dangers and stressors your package will endure along the way. But knowing how to protect packages during shipping can better prepare your items to stand up to the potential hazards of transport.
How Sturdy Is the Package Itself?
Guaranteeing safe transport of your package begins with how you are packaging the item. You need to know the strength of the cardboard that you are using and whether it will provide suitable protection for the material being shipped.
Prepare for Other Boxes During Delivery
Check the weight of the cardboard and the crush limits to make sure the package can retain its shape without compression. It will be placed alongside other packages out for delivery, and if any one of those is larger or weighs more than your package, it can crush your box if it is not strong enough.
Do You Have the Proper Cushioning?
Once you have obtained the suitable cardboard for your packaging, you must focus on the safety of the material inside your package. You need to protect the items inside your box from destruction during transit, which will require you to fill the inside with cushioning material. This soft material may include:
- Bubble wrap
- Shipping peanuts
- Inflatables
- Foam structures
Do Not Over-Fill Contents
If you add too much filling, it can pose a threat to the integrity of the item you are shipping. Adding too much cushioning can cause compression if it is packed in too tightly, inadvertently causing destruction instead of protection. Also, be sure not to over-fill your package, as the extra weight may cause shipping expenses to increase unnecessarily.
Is Everything Sealed Correctly?
Finally, you must ensure that your package will not open during transit. This means knowing how to seal your package properly and what measures are necessary to guarantee that security. For most smaller packages, using adhesive tape is enough to keep your box sealed.
For Heavier Packaging
If your package requires more heavy-duty sealing, you will need to use sealing bands or staples. Using carton closing staples is among the more reliable options for transporting boxes. Still, you must know how the sealing process works to close your package and make it ready for delivery.
Refuse To Cut Corners
The durability of your packaging will determine the satisfaction of your recipient. A poor packing job will cause disappointment and significantly reduce the likelihood of repeated purchases. Knowing how to protect your packages for transit will engender customer trust and promote further business success.