Packaging guidelines

All packages must be packed sufficiently well to protect them during their journey and it is your responsibility to ensure that the packaging is adequate. The amount of packaging is obviously dependent on the type and value of the goods being transported. Remember though that, whilst delivery companies attempt to take good care on your parcel, the parcels are man-handled and transported within vehicles - so can be dropped or otherwise damaged.

In order to protect your goods as far as possible please:

Do not overload. If you are sending particularly big or heavy items do not overload boxes. Lower weight means less chance of goods being heavily handled, (or dropped!)

Spread out any valuable items amongst the packages. If you are sending several lots to the same address don't put all your valuable items in the same box.

Balance the weight within the box. An unevenly packed box is more likely to suffer damage due to instability.

Use a big enough box. This avoids skimping on internal packaging. Always use a double-wall box for heavy items.

Use a strong box. We would suggest that you use built for purpose containers and we can supply these for you if necessary. Using old boxes that are weak or damaged is likely to be a false economy.

Wrap each item within the container. This will ensure that the contents of the container don't come into contact with each other and cause damage. Particularly protect fragile items.

Allow at least two inches of packing around breakable or fragile Items. Don’t rely on shredded or torn up newspaper - use polystyrene peanuts and bubble wrap.

Ensure there is no movement of items within the box. This is the single biggest reason for damage to contents in transit.

Place some scrap cardboard under the final seal of each box. When the knife cuts in to open the box it does not damage the contents. Seal the edges too as this adds stability and reduces the risk of snagging and tampering.

Seal the parcel well. Tape all joints with packing tape (not selotape!) and for extra protection seal the corners as well. Heavy boxes should be sealed with a fabric tape rather than brown tape.

Write the address clearly on the box. Labels are fine but can come unstuck. Protect the labels by using clear tape. Include your own full address on the box in case of returns.

If in doubt you should consider whether your parcel could be dropped from 3 feet without damage. If the answer is 'No' then we would suggest you pack further