It is very frustrating for the retailer and the customer when a fragile product breaks down during delivery. In addition, these cases involve a whole reverse logistics process – when the object needs to return to the virtual store – which entails more expenses. Not to mention the stress and damage to the virtual store’s brand and reputation. The carrier needs to ship fragile items carefully to minimize risk using tilt sensors for example. However, it is the entrepreneur’s responsibility to properly pack the objects to help ensure that they arrive at their destination in perfect condition. Check out some tips below on how to pack fragile objects and make them safer for posting.
Tip 1: Pay Attention To The Appropriate Type Of Packaging
There are several types of packaging, and the retailer needs to know all of them to assess which best holds fragile products to protect them. Below, learn about the most common types.
Cardboard boxes: This is the most popular option for packaging fragile products. Cardboard boxes are useful and inexpensive, but the shopkeeper must pay close attention when using them to ship items. It is recommended that the fragile object be wrapped in bubble wrap or newspaper before being placed in the box. In addition, it is wise to take extra care to fill empty spaces with paper, Styrofoam, Bio Pack (biodegradable foam), or other material that helps to limit the movement of the object inside the package.
Bubble Wrap Envelopes: these packages send small, fragile objects. Can be used to send jewelry, electronic accessories, etc. If you decide to use this type of packaging, ensure the product will be well-accommodated inside the envelope. If necessary, reinforce the protection with bubble wrap or other material.
Wooden crates: this type of packaging is most often used to transport large, fragile items such as mirrors, glass plates, vases, and other products. Wooden boxes are built for the size of the fragile product to be shipped so as not to allow it to move. Even so, using bubble wrap or Styrofoam plates to reinforce safety during transport is worth taking extra care.
Cylinder: made of plastic or cardboard, this type of packaging is another option for how transporting fragile objects. Also known as a mail tube, the cylinder can transport long or cylindrical objects. The protocol of many carriers requires that objects accommodated in cylinders are later stored in a box. Check with your chosen carrier to see if they have this requirement.
Important: some carriers charge extra fees for unconventional or heavy. Consult the carrier chosen and, if applicable, place the product packaging inside a conventional box before posting.