Ways to avoid common packing mistakes

It may seem obvious, but the method you pack is critical to the overall effectiveness of your shipping. Packing entails more than simply placing items in moving boxes. Packing your belongings, like most things, needs careful consideration and forethought. Everything from how you pack to when you start packing can have an impact on how smoothly your shipment travels.

With that in mind, here are six typical packing blunders that you should avoid at all costs to have stress-free shipping.

1.  Improper packaging

• Picture frames, platters and porcelain being fragile items should be covered in bubble wrap and packed between two pieces of thin cardboard. This will protect the products from breaking during transit by cushioning them.
• Food should be packed separately.
• Furniture padding and packing peanuts should be used to protect larger, heavier objects.
• Make sure there are no gaps in the container since this could allow the contents to slide around and get damaged during transit.

2.  Faulty box labeling

• Your shipment can get delayed if the labels are not readable. Hence, ensure the label is clear and legible.
• Keep an extra-label inside the box. Then, place the additional label on the top of the box instead of placing it over the seams.
• Ensure that the label contains a list of items packed within the box. 

3. Using incorrect boxes

• It's advisable to buy boxes that are larger than the products you're shipping, so that you may put in protective packing materials like packing peanuts or wadded paper.
• If the box you're using to ship your goods is moist or flimsy, your shipment's contents are more likely to be damaged. As a result, make sure you use a sturdy, high-quality box.

4. Retaining old labels from recycled boxes

Ensure there are no remaining labels from prior shipments on reused boxes. This can lead to miscommunication and result in a delay in your shipment.

5. Using little tape to wrap the box

• Regular tape will not be sufficient to hold your package together. Instead, use a 2-inch wide, high-quality packing tape.
• Begin by putting 2-3 layers of tape to the bottom, then repeat on the sides for further support.
• Following the "H-taping" method is ideal as it involves taping both the middle and sides of the flaps. Using this method, you can ensure that your moving boxes remain closed and secure throughout the transport.

6. Rather than using boxes, plastic bags are used

Some people tend to use plastic bags when they are short of cardboard containers. This is a bad idea because plastic bags provide very little protection for your goods.

How can DHL Express ensure a smoother shipping experience?

Good packaging plays a crucial role in facilitating a smooth journey for your shipment. DHL Express takes immense pride in playing a key part when it comes to international shipping. Our comprehensive shipment preparation guide helps shippers learn how to create an accurate air waybill on MyDHL+, prepare their shipping invoice, pack their goods and also arrange the shipment for collection.

Be it dangerous or fragile goods, we provide a step-by-step guide on how to pack and prepare them for international shipping correctly and safely. Our Certified International Specialists ensure that your item arrives on time and that you have full visibility into its real-time status at every stage of the journey.

Our DHL Express team is constantly working to improve our services by assisting customers in growing their businesses. For more information on DHL's services or special shipping tips, contact our customer service representatives or directly open an account with us today!