Step 1: CONSIDER

The consideration part of packaging can be further broken down into sections. These sections are as follows:

• Weight: The sender must decide on a box that is strong enough to hold the physical weight of the contents inside. This is why a doubled walled box is recommended for its durability.
• Size and Shape: The box must be big enough to allow for space between the box walls and the contents within the box. As mentioned earlier, the space between the contents and the box walls must be filled with a protective material such as bubble wrap.
• Form of contents: The form of the contents refers to whether the contents are solids or liquids. Each respective form has its own unique packaging requirements and cannot be treated the same.
• Value of contents: High-value contents will require more protection when compared to contents of lower value.
• Fragility: If the contents being shipped are fragile, they will require more cushioning and protection. It is also important to indicate, by placing a label on the box, that the contents within are fragile.
• Final use: If the contents are to be resold upon arrival at destination.
• Regulations: If the contents within the box are classified as “hazardous” then they will require special markings.

Step 3: SEALING

Sealing refers to what material the sender uses to enclose their shipment and ensures their box does not open during transit. A quality seal will also protect your shipment during transit. There are materials to use as seals and there are materials to avoid as seals.

USE

It is important that the sender uses tape that is pressure-sensitive. The following tapes are considered as pressure-sensitive and are recommended when sealing a box:

• Polypropylene tape. This is the brown tape that is used to close boxes when moving.
• Vinyl adhesive tape. This tape is more commonly known as electrical tape.
• Fibre-reinforced paper tape. Also known as duct tape

AVOID

• Masking Tape
• Cellophane Tape
• Kraft Paper Tape
• String / Rope

A procedure for effective sealing: H – TAPING METHOD

First, apply 1 strip of tape along the centre seam.
Then apply 2 strips of tape across both edges forming the letter H.
This process can be repeated for heavier shipments. Repeat this technique at the bottom of the box as well.

Step 4: LABELLING

The sender can place labels on their package to assist in the appropriate transportation and handling as well as the storage of their package during transit. The labels provide the members in the transit network with information regarding the packages’ unique transit requirements which could ultimately prevent damage and ensure the safe arrival of packages.

APPLYING THE LABEL

The Basic packing method consists of using a double-walled box. The contents within the box must be wrapped in plastic to prevent damage caused by moisture. The contents inside must not be placed against the wall of the box. The gap between the box wall must be filled up with bubble wrap or polystyrene balls. Ensure the contents cannot move within the box.

• When the sender applies the shipping label, they must ensure the label is placed on top of their package to assist the handlers in keeping the shipment upright during transit.
• The label must be completely visible. The sealing in the previous step must not cover parts of the label or cross over with information on the label.
• Use a plastic self-adhesive clear window pouch to hold any loose documents that are required to be placed outside of the box.
• The sender can place a spare label inside the box in case the one outside the box is lost during transit.
• Other labels must not be placed on the same surface as the shipment label.