How to pack parcels for international shipping

International parcels are loaded, transferred and inspected several times. Packing them properly gets your goods there intact, avoids repeat inspections and can even lower the price. Here is a basic guide for each type of goods.

Choose the box and materials

• A strong, new carton, 3- or 5-ply. Old boxes that have been damp or dented tear easily in transit.
• A size that fits your goods: oversized boxes dent easily and raise the volumetric weight (see How to calculate volumetric weight).
• Filling: bubble wrap, air bags or shredded paper to fill every gap so nothing moves.
• Wide packing tape, applied in an H pattern on the top and bottom.

Packing by type of goods

Clothes and blankets

Fold them and put them in plastic bags against moisture. Vacuum-pack thick blankets and coats to save space.

Dry food

Use zip bags or vacuum packs and label each item. Keep strong-smelling food (fish sauce, dried fish) apart so the smell doesn't spread. Check first that the destination country accepts that food.

Fragile items

Wrap each item in several layers of bubble wrap, place it in the middle of the box and fill all sides. Tell our staff so they can label it fragile.

Electronics and appliances

Keep the original box if you have it and add padding around it. Remove loose batteries where possible, and ask us about each route's battery rules.

Liquids and cosmetics

Many routes do not accept liquids. Ask first; if they are allowed, close the lids tightly, wrap them in film and put them in a separate sealed bag.

Label the parcel

• Write the recipient's name, phone number and address clearly.
• If you send several boxes, number them (1/3, 2/3, 3/3).
• Don't put personal details on the outside that aren't needed.

Let AV Logistics pack it for you

If you don't have boxes and materials, bring your goods to our warehouse. Our staff will check, weigh, measure and pack them to international shipping standards, and tell you what to pack separately or not send. Our drop-off rules are in our shipping terms.