Â
Now that you have selected the right box, the last thing you want to do is let yourself down in the internal protection and cushioning department.  Shock, vibration and compression are forces that your parcel may be exposed to during any freight transport process, but the impact of these forces can be significantly reduced when the right internal packing materials are used.
 
The most effective way to pack your box
Begin by ensuring that each individual item inside the box is wrapped in bubble and/or foam wrap. Fill all gaps between and around the items with a quality "Void fill" material such as polystyrene ‘peanuts’ or crushed packing paper (removalist quality). Foam enclosures that were used in the original manufacturer’s packaging should only be used with the manufacturer’s original carton, and only if it is still in excellent condition (even then, we recommend double boxing).
As a general rule, each item should be surrounded by at least 5cm of cushioning and be at least 5cm away from the walls of the box. Items  that are particularly fragile may need to be packed with Foam-in-Place. This specialised, cost-effective packing material is only available to the public through PACK & SEND.  We can custom-mould solid foam around your goods to provide the utmost level of internal protection and cushioning.
Ineffective forms of cushioning
Wrapping your items in clothing, blankets, towels, newspaper or pillows might be okay for a short trip in the back of your car, but these are totally inadequate materials for internal protection when sending via a courier or postal service. When travelling as freight, parcels typically experience numerous short drops, knocks and shocks and require thoroughly secure packaging in order to prevent damage.  Its always best  to use products & materials that were specifically designed for internal protection purposes, such as bubble wrap, and the various specialised protective foam products.
Other top tips:
- Make sure your items are separated from each other and from the corners, sides, top, and bottom of the box.
- After packing, shake your box to ensure the contents don’t move. If you can feel or hear any movement, re-pack until there is no further movement.
- Be mindful of how full your box is: under-filling will result in box collapsing, while over-loaded boxes can burst.  You want to avoid both of these potential outcomes.
- Items with sharp or pointy edges of any kind need to be well protected. Heavy-duty cardboard can be used for this purpose, in addition to other cushioning such as bubble wrap.
Fragile and unusually shaped items present a much greater risk of damage in transit if they are not packed well.  If you're in any doubt, it's probably worth your while to seek assistance from professionals. Luckily, packing  is something that PACK & SEND specialises in.  Contact your local PACK & SEND if you would like personalised advice or service.
Once you know your goods are securely packed in a strong and solid box, and filled with appropriate internal protection and cushioning, your next step is to ensure correct taping and sealing.  We'll let you know some our top tips in the department very soon.