subject: How To Pack Your Shipment Properly [print this page] Some helpful tips on how to make sure that you have your package packed according the guidelines that will be issued by most courier companies are to make sure that you fill out all the paperwork that your Chicago courier service provides you with, and that you do so correctly. This is especially important if you're shipping internationally. Before you seal your box up, be sure to include an extra shipping label inside the box, including your contact information. Sometimes the outside of the box gets damaged, and if that happens, they can then still complete the delivery or return the package to you.
Only pack your shipments in boxes that do not have old shipping labels or shipping information printed anywhere on them, as that can cause needless confusion. Use the right kind of tape. A lot of people try and package a heavy box using scotch tape or masking tape, only to have their package fly open at a very inopportune time. Make sure you're using a box heavy enough to hold your items. If you're shipping something that is very heavy, you should double box it, or if you're shipping something that is even heavier than that, you should crate it instead.
Don't ship liquids or anything which can rot or spoil. If you must ship these goods, be sure they are sealed so they cannot spill, and that your courier will accept them. Not all couriers will be willing to transport these types of goods. Don't use a box that is too large, otherwise your items have too much movement inside the package and can easily become damaged. Also, don't use a box that is too small or your shipment will likely tear the box at some point in time. Be sure that you have both the shipping and return address clearly marked on the package or on the shipping label as required by your courier.
Anytime you are shipping anything which might break, you have to pad all the empty air in the package so that your item cannot move. Use packing kernels, bubble wrap, towels or even newspaper, anything that can fill up the empty spaces and protect your shipment. If your item would become destroyed if it got wet, be sure to seal it plastic of some kind. Packages do get damp from time to time, especially if it is raining.
