Presents in the Post? How to Package a Parcel Safely & Effectively

The merry magic of Christmas is upon us once more. Bedecked trees adorn living rooms, houses sparkle with lights once again, and we are all rushing to buy gifts for our loved ones ahead of the festivities. 

With many of us shopping online and sending our purchases straight to their recipients, the safe delivery and arrival of presents at the intended doorsteps’ lies in the hands of the vendors they have been bought from. It is imperative for businesses to ensure they take care when packing gifts as there is nothing more disappointing than opening a parcel to find the contents damaged. And nothing more harmful to your brand and reputation either. 

Although any well-designed packaging should withstand the journey it takes, there is no harm in taking a little extra precaution. We have prepared some helpful pointers to help you package with perfection this Christmas.   

P.S. Don’t forget, this is the prime opportunity to build a lasting impression on your customers with a memorable unboxing experience. Nail it and your customers will be guaranteed to come back for more, bringing family and friends with them, too. 

Choose the right packaging 

Stating the obvious? Not at all. We have all received items in inappropriate packaging before to know it’s an easily made mistake. Choosing a container in the correct size can massively impact the safety of the items held within. Use a shipping box that is too big and your goods run the risk of moving around internally, incurring damage from knocks and bumps. Get the box too small and gifts can get crushed. Luckily for you, we have included a link to a video detailing how to measure your product for the goldilocks fit here, just scroll down to the bottom of the linked page to view. It is great for determining the best container for those tricky, irregular-sized items.

Use high quality cardboard boxes with single or double wall corrugation as your parcels will change hands many times, going through several hubs, warehouses and couriers where there will be plenty of opportunity for damage to occur. Available in 46 sizes, our single wall boxes are more than sturdy enough to support various products and industries, although double wall boxes, available in 48 sizes, are better for fragile and heavy items. Large letter postal boxes are great for small letterbox gifts, complying with Royal Mail’s PiP Guide for cost-effectivity that will save you money in shipping costs. 

In-the-box protection 

In-the-box protection should not be overlooked as it prevents your products from rattling around in their shipping box. Wrap items individually, especially when packing several items in one container. Hivewrap provides a great rustic aesthetic along with robust protection with the hive-shaped cells expanding and interlocking to provide effective shock absorption. Add dividers to prevent items from knocking into each other. Or, for a more colourful touch, use our tissue paper in colours corresponding to your brand or products for packaging protection that also consolidates your brand messaging. 

Remember to place your items in the middle of their container, allowing room for a gap where void fill should be inserted. This will thoroughly secure your items into place, preventing any chance of internal movement during transit. While our wood wool ties in with the rustic aesthetic, we have shredded paper available in straight and zig zag cuts with an array of colours to choose from so you are spoiled for choice this festive season. 

Sealing your parcel 

Your parcel’s packaging journey is almost complete now and is ready for sealing. Using a strong tape, seal you package carefully along any edges and openings, reinforcing its protective qualities for a package that arrives safely and securely into customers’ hands. 

Need help deciding which tape to use? Not to worry, use Kite’s tape guide to find the perfect one for you and your needs. Whether you are after tape that tears by hand, is low noise, or an eco-friendly paper variety, we have it all. 

Labelling

This goes without saying, to ensure your parcels reach the right destination, label them clearly and save yourself the hassle of having to investigate missing orders! Our Inkjet and laser printer labels are compatible with most laser printer and copiers, offering convenience and the perfect method for getting shipping information onto parcels. 

Prepare all materials ahead of packing for a fast and efficient process. And stay tuned for more Christmas packaging tips, hacks and advice!