Packaging guidelines

Are your contents packaged correctly?

It’s really important that you package your items well, to keep them safe on their journey. Detailed packaging advice is available in our packaging guidelines (PDF, 817KB) which you can download and keep for reference. It contains specific packaging advice for electrical items (e.g. PCs, laptops, DVDs and printers) and musical instruments (e.g. guitars).

Wrapping your items
All items should be placed within an inner box and wrapped in bubble wrap. Multiple items within a parcel should not touch to prevent movement in transit. Contents should be placed in a rigid cardboard box and sealed to prevent opening during transit.

Fragile items
Fragile items need extra protection such as bubble wrap, foam sheeting, polystyrene surrounds and ends, moulded and shaped foam, cardboard, polystyrene peanuts or chips, ensuring reduced movement of packaged items.

Strong outer packaging - is it strong enough?
A corrugated fibreboard box with a quality outer wrapping is best. Make sure the outer packaging is strong enough for the weight of the parcel. Compensation claims for damage of contents will be invalid if the parcel is inadequately packed or if the packaging is not retained for verification.

Sealing the parcel
Open edges of the parcel should be sealed, top and bottom, with plastic or reinforced carton tape, rather than ordinary household tape.

Parcels must not be strapped together or bound to another parcel
Any strapping around boxes is not suitable as this can get caught and cause damage to the parcel. Either place all items in one box or send them in separate parcels (all UK services, globalexpress and globalpriority offer competitive consignment pricing when several parcels are going to the same address). We do not pay compensation for loss or damage, or refund for delay for parcels that have been strapped together or bound to another parcel.

Labelling of goods (luggage)
Labels glued on to luggage items often become detached. Make sure you attach the label by using a clear plastic envelope and attach this envelope to a handle or strap on the item using a bag tie.

Clear, accurate addressing
Make sure the recipient’s address and postcode is clearly written on the parcel. In addition, write your own address, postcode and phone number on the outside and inside of the parcel, in case there are any queries during transit.

The phone number of the recipient is also helpful and for globalexpress the telephone numbers of the sender and the recipient must be written on the customs pack.

Correctly completed documentation
Check all documentation is accurately completed to avoid any delay in transit. Make sure the service barcoded labels are securely attached to the parcel and are clearly visible.

Customers sending to non-EU destinations will need to declare the parcel contents on the customs pack. For globalexpress this is a requirement for all destinations.