Years of experience and thousands of packages have built a vast knowledge base for getting items of all sorts from here to there in one piece. Below are some rules of thumb and hints for successful shipping. But don't hesitate to call us or just bring it in to the store and we'll help you pack and protect it.
Follow These Steps to Good Packaging
[Box Cushioning Tape Label Heavy Items Help]
Our objective is to get your package safely to its destination. You can help us achieve this goal by observing a few basic principles when preparing your shipments. The steps outlined on this page cover the key considerations in packing most articles with care. If you follow these simple steps, you will be doing your part to help us deliver your package safely.
Use a new box large enough to allow room for adequate cushioning material on all sides of the contents. Choose a box strength which is suitable for its contents. Never exceed the maximum gross weight of the box. This is usually defined in the Box Maker's Certificate printed on the bottom of the box.
It's important to properly cushion the contents of your package. Wrap each item separately. Fragile articles need both proper separation from each other and clearance from the corners and sides of the box. This will prevent against damage and protect the contents from shock and vibration which can pass from the outside of the box to the contents.
Proper cushioning material, combined with a strong outer container, will protect your shipment.
A wide variety of materials can be used for cushioning and protection. These include:
Use enough cushioning material to ensure that the contents cannot move easily when you shake the box. Several inches of cushioning material all the way around should do it.
Extremely fragile objects require special packaging for safe shipment.
Proper closure of your package is a important as adequate cushioning. To close a box securely, use a strong tape - two inches or more in width - such as the types described below.
Do not use masking tape or cellophane tape. These tapes do not provide the strength necessary for secure closures.
Do not use string or paper overwrap since they may snag on automated equipment, resulting in lost address information or package contents.
To ensure proper delivery, keep these important points in mind when addressing your package:
When shipping a package that weighs more than 70 pounds, it is important to re-evaluate your package materials and check that they are adequate for heavier package contents.
Cartons need to be of stronger construction, preferable with seams that are stitched or stapled, not glued. Check the box maker's certification for maximum weight. The higher the weight certification, the better your box will protect its contents from impact in sorting and over-the-road vibration.
Use new cartons whose strength has not been compromised by humidity or prior-use wear and tear.
Seal with heavy-duty tape, preferably reinforced.
Dense cushioning is a must. Peanuts and crumpled paper are not acceptable. They crush and shift under heavy loads. Customized corrugated or molded foam "framing" are more suitable and reinforce the rigidity of the outer carton.
Do not band packages together unless each individual package is in a carton designed to support the total "package" weight.
If you do band packages, use a minimum of two bands in each direction, and label the individual boxes. Band together only same-sized boxes.
If all else fails, bring your contents to the Box Co. and let our experience and expertise come to your aid. Odds are we've shipped it before.
For information: send us email, or call (317) 846-7467.