One of the most effective ways to ensure that all your packages reach their destination safely is to package them properly. We offer a range of ways to help you do just that.

Online packaging help
Our online packaging guide provides easy-to-implement advice on packaging your consignments properly. Just visit www.parcelforce.com

The basics of good packaging
What you should do:

• Check on any prohibitions or restrictions on goods.
• Use a strong outer container such as a corrugated fibreboard carton with a good quality kraft outer liner.
• Put protective wrapping around each individual item.
• Use expanded polystyrene chips, polyethylene foam, bubble plastic, crumpled aircushions or shredded paper to cushion fragile items. Please ensure that polyblock surrounds are used on all electrical items.
• Seal all open edges of the parcel with 48mm/50mm wide plastic or reinforced carton tape on both the top and bottom of your package. Ordinary household adhesive tape isn't usually strong enough. 
• Strap (with non-metallic strapping if possible) and tape large or heavy items, and use an outer carton strong enough to withstand fully tensioned strapping.
• Include the sender's address on the outer carton/wrapper, as well as inside the package.
• Read and sign the declaration on the Parcelforce Worldwide despatch pack regarding 'prohibited and dangerous articles'. If you are dropping off packages at a Parcelforce
• Worldwide depot, you should sign this declaration in front of the accepting officer.
• When transporting electrical items – e.g laptops, DVD players etc – please make sure that they have the original manufacturer’s transport screws properly secured to ensure that elements/components do not move.

What you should NOT do:

• Don't send dangerous or prohibited goods as you may be liable to prosecution.
• Don't use substandard or damaged cartons.
• Don't allow contents to move within their packaging.
• Don't allow fragile items inside a package to touch each other.
• Don't use domestic adhesive tape.
• Don't use string around boxes as this can get caught and cause damage (it can be used around other wrapping).
• Don't send consignments without the full address, the postcode or zip code, or telephone number of the addressee.
• Do not strap multiple boxes together. This may cause them to become damaged.  Either place all items in one box or send them in separate parcels. We will not pay compensation for items that are strapped together.

Safeguarding security
Today security is more important than ever. Moving goods around the world requires all of us to be more aware and alert. Which is why, as part of our security operations, we carry out rigorous checks on consignments. This may involve X-ray screening, decompression or, in exceptional circumstances, opening a package. If a package fails such checks, service guarantees may be suspended and compensation claims refused. We trust you will understand that such checks are essential in safeguarding the security of all our customers and staff.