How to package big and bulky items: 5 handy tips
Packaging big and bulky items for shipping can be overwhelming, especially if you don’t know how to go about it. Whether you are shipping a refrigerator or couch, you need to take your time to properly package it to prevent damage during transit and to ensure it gets to its destination in good condition.
In this article, we’ll outline 5 handy tips on how to package big and bulky items for shipping. Let’s get started!
1. Find the right packaging material
Bigger and bulkier items call for large and more stable packaging materials. In most cases, heavy-duty corrugated cardboard boxes work well for bigger items.
In the absence of a corrugated cardboard box, you can use multiple different-sized boxes taped together to create a sturdy base. Opt for boxes with stapled or stitched seams instead of glued ones for increased stability.
If you use the box-in-box method, ensure you add a protective filler or cushioning between the boxes for added protection.
When packing your item, be sure to leave about 5 cm (2 inches) of space on every side between the outer and inner packaging to create enough room for cushioning.
2. Add a protective filler or cushioning
The protective fillers or cushioning add an extra layer of protection to your products preventing damage by vibrations, compressions, or accidental falls during transit. Your protective filler should be strong enough to support the item under shipment.
Here you can use corrugated cardboard inserts or engineered polystyrene foam customized to house the product.
3. Seal the package
Once everything is well set, you should seal the package securely using heavy-duty tape. You can use thick packing tape, duct tape, fiberglass reinforced, or water-activated tape to ensure the package remains tightly sealed throughout the entire trip.
4. Palletize if necessary
For bulky or oddly shaped items, you may need to palletize them. Palletizing is the process of placing your items on a wooden or plastic platform (pallet) and securing them in place using shipping straps or stretch wrap.
Palletizing helps ensure your item is stable and doesn’t move around during transit. It also makes it easy for the shipping carriers to load and offload the package using handling equipment such as forklifts.
5. Label the package
Clearly label the box on all sides with the correct shipping information. This includes your name and address, the name and address of the recipient, and a phone number in case there is an issue with the delivery.
It’s also a good idea to include important labels such as “FRAGILE,” “THIS SIDE UP,” “DO NOT STACK,” etc., in big letters on the box to indicate to the shipping company that special care needs to be taken when handling the package.
With these tips, you should be able to package your big and bulky items for shipping without any problems. Just be sure to take your time and use high-quality packaging materials to ensure safe and smooth delivery.
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