subject: What Are Packing Guidelines? [print this page] No courier company is going to agree to just pick packages that you might want them to, regardless of how you prepare it. Instead, you will find that your Chicago courier service probably has a very specific set of packing guidelines that you are expected to follow for every shipment. Usually, a copy of these guidelines will be available upon request, and it is a good idea to get a copy. Although many of these guidelines have commonalities between the various courier companies that are out there, it is always good to view those for your company just in case there are unique specific requirements that they have in place for your type of cargo.
The packing guidelines that most courier companies want you to follow are pretty straight forward, and not too difficult to adhere to. One common example is making sure that you're shipping heavy goods in containers which are strong enough to hold their weight. Also, think about whether or not the packaging will still be rugged enough if it gets damp, as this often happens to deliveries. Double boxing your heavier shipments will always be recommended in courier guidelines.
Another guideline which is related is always making sure that you use appropriate packing materials. For instance, don't put something in a cardboard box that should actually be crated. Also, don't every use any kind of tape when preparing a package other than regular packing tape. All other types of tape are too weak, or become to compromised if they become damp.
Packing guidelines almost always address the labeling of the packages that you are shipping as well. That is because a mistake that is made with the labeling of a package can be one of the most infuriating mistakes for everyone involved, because it can cause a package to be delivered to the wrong address or lost completely. These guidelines will usually state that you can only have one piece of address information on any package; any old labels must be completely covered up.
Following the packing guidelines isn't just so that your packages are safe when you're shipping them. First of all, if a driver feels that you haven't followed these rules, they are entitled to refuse to pick up your package. The next problem that you're faced with is that if your package becomes damaged and it is found that you didn't follow the guidelines, insurance may not apply to your shipment.
