PACKAGING GUIDELINES

Packing your parcels properly ready for transport is vital. Many people are unaware how overnight and international parcels are transported, and as such are generally not aware of what constitutes sufficient packaging.

All overnight and international parcels are distributed via large sorting hubs which utilise conveyer belt systems, much like those you see at the airport. Below are some very useful do’s & don’ts to help you ensure that you package your parcels correctly. Remember, if goods are not deemed sufficiently packaged this will invalidate any claim in the event that your goods are damaged during transit.

• Do always use a box which is relative to the size of the item(s) being packed. This means that you should avoid putting small items into a large box as they stand a higher chance of being moved around inside during transit. If you do use a larger box you must use plenty of interior padding (bubble wrap / foam chippings) etc to minimize movement. Also remember that the larger the box the more expensive the shipping cost, so it is in your interest to use a suitably sized box.

• Do make sure you use a sturdy box, double or tri wall boxes offer the best protection

• Do use plenty of packing tape to make sure your box is well sealed

• Do make sure that you use plenty of bubble wrap, foam chippings or paper inside the box so that the items inside do not move around

• Do make sure that items inside the box do not bang together; all items should be individually packed/protected to avoid damage. Once packed you should be able to shake the box and be confident that nothing inside is moving around or knocking together.

• Do not think writing things such as “FRAGILE” and/or “HANDLE WITH CARE” on a box will mean your parcel will be safe. Yes, it will identify your parcel as fragile, however it is no substitution for proper packaging and there is no guarantee that the various handlers will observe the notice.

• Do not write “THIS WAY UP” on a box. If an item has to remain upright it is not suitable for transport via overnight or international courier. In such an instance you will require either a same day or a pallet service. If an item has “THIS WAY UP” written on it these instructions will be ignored.

• Do not just “fold” boxes shut. They MUST be taped closed with an adequate strong tape

• Do not put loose items in a box without protecting them separately, for example bottles, or any other fragile item(s).

• Do not leave anything exposed: all of the item(s) you are sending must fit inside the box. Any box that has items sticking out may be refused by the carrier and will almost certainly get damaged.

We are happy for you to get in contact if you require any assistance with packaging advice; simply email us at info@missiondespatch.com

Please note that we can provide a packing service (fees apply). To obtain a quote please email us with the details of your parcel(s). Please note, we are unable to accept liability if an item is damaged in transit once we have packed it; however all goods will be packaged in the correct manner for the purpose of transport and so any claim would not be rejected on the grounds of insufficient packaging. Items on our “prohibited & restricted items” list cannot be insured under any circumstances, regardless of packaging.