[PL] How do I pack a parcel and prepare it for the courier?

Shipping a parcel can be an easy task, as long as you prepare for it properly. It is crucial to pack your parcel correctly and to secure its contents. It is also advisable to familiarise yourself with the requirements of your chosen courier company. Find out what is the best way to pack a parcel, how to protect it from damage and how to prepare it for shipment step by step.

What to pack? The available options

Choosing the right packaging depends on what you intend to send. The type and size of the parcel in particular is of great importance. What options do you have?

Carton – the most versatile and commonly used solution for parcel packaging. Cartons come in a variety of sizes and can accommodate both small and large items. It is important that the carton is sized appropriately for the contents – if the parcel is too large for the item you are sending, you will need to fill in the voids.
Bubble envelopes – ideal for small, fragile items such as electronics, jewellery or documents. These envelopes come with a layer of bubble wrap to provide protection from damage.
Cardboard tubes – great for transporting long items such as posters, technical drawings or other materials in a collapsed form. The tubes are crush-resistant, which protects the contents from damage.
Stretch films – for non-standard shaped shipments, it is worth considering the use of stretch films or other packaging materials.

Whichever packaging you choose, it is worth ensuring that it is robust and suitable for the weight and type of consignment. If you need a standard solution, packing cartons can be a great choice – they are available in a variety of sizes and shapes for the best fit.

How do you pack a parcel so that it arrives safely at the addressee?

The safety of your parcel is a priority, which is why it is important to properly secure its contents. Even the slightest negligence can lead to damage, especially when the parcel has passed through many hands and means of transport. What can be used to secure a parcel to ensure that it is well protected?

Bubble wrap – this is one of the most popular protections for fragile items. By wrapping glass, porcelain, electronics or other fragile items in it, you minimise the risk of damage. Bubble wrap protects against shocks and impacts and also protects against moisture.
Parcel fillers – polystyrene, air cushions or paper shavings are excellent materials for filling empty spaces in a parcel. Thanks to them, the contents of the parcel do not move inside the packaging, which protects against shocks and possible mechanical damage. For added security, you can reach for parcel fillers, which offer effective protection and are easy to use.
Strong adhesive tape – securing the carton with tape is another essential step in the packaging process. Use strong tape to seal all edges of the parcel, especially the bottom and top. It is important that the tape is strong and moisture-resistant to prevent it from unraveling during transport.

Also remember to label the parcel appropriately. If you are shipping fragile items, it is a good idea to stick labels with the word “Caution” on them – this is an additional hint for the courier to handle the package particularly carefully.

How do I prepare the parcel for the courier? Additional tips

Preparing a parcel properly is not only about packing it, but also about taking care of the details that will make it easier for the courier to pick it up and deliver it. So what else is worth doing?

Apply a shipping label – each parcel must be accurately described. The label should include the recipient’s full address, contact telephone number and other relevant information such as special delivery instructions. It is important that the label is clearly visible and legible. You can put the label on the carton or envelope, but make sure it is firmly attached so it does not fall off during transit.
Remove old markings – if you are reusing a cardboard box, be sure to remove any old labels and markings that could confuse the courier. Too many labels on one box can result in a misdelivery of the parcel.
Secure the package from opening – make sure the package is tightly closed and well protected. A strong seal prevents the package from being accidentally opened during transport. You can additionally reinforce the parcel with adhesive tape, especially at the seams and edges, to make it more robust.

A well-prepared package is a guarantee that your parcel will arrive safely at the recipient. If you’re not sure how to order the service, it’s worth reading the instructions on how to send a parcel by courier. This will help you avoid unnecessary complications and ensure that everything has been done correctly.