When shipping items internationally from Hong Kong, packaging plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and integrity of the items in transit. As the first line of defence against the rigours of shipment, proper packaging can mean the difference between a parcel arriving in pristine condition or ending up as a casualty of the journey.
Unfortunately, senders often make numerous common packaging mistakes, compromising the safety of the shipment, particularly when goods are being sent across borders. These errors can significantly impact the delivery outcome, underscoring the importance of good packaging and the need for meticulous attention when packing items for international shipping.
What are the problems with incorrect packaging?
Faulty or inadequate packaging can have a multitude of negative effects on the items themselves, including damage such as breakage, dents, or scratches during transit. Furthermore, it can result in extended delivery times, as customs and carrier regulations often require that goods meet specific packaging standards for safety and security. If these standards are not met, it will trigger delays for additional scrutiny or necessitate repackaging, slowing down the entire delivery process.
For businesses, the repercussions of improper packaging are multifaceted, especially for items being sent internationally, where they endure longer transit times, more frequent handling and higher shipping costs.
Firstly, it affects the bottom line due to increased costs associated with the unsellable inventory itself, returns and replacements. This impact intensifies for high-value goods, significantly affecting profitability.
Secondly, it negatively impacts customer trust and brand reputation. A recent survey by Packaging InSight revealed that a significant 73% of respondents would hesitate to make another purchase from a company if they received an item that was damaged. Similarly, Capgemini reported that 72% of customers who were satisfied with a delivery service would increase their purchase levels with the brand by 12%. Therefore, understanding the importance of packing products correctly cannot be overstated for businesses today.
Common packaging mistakes
To ensure your package arrives on time and in optimal condition, steering clear of these common packaging blunders is vital.#3
1. Insufficient filling materials
The space inside a package is just as important as the item it contains. Choosing the right cushioning and filling materials is essential to secure the contents, halting any movement that could lead to accidental damage during international transit. Options for filling materials range from bubble wrap, which is excellent for absorbing shocks, to packing peanuts for filling empty spaces and corrugated inserts that add extra stability and protection. The ideal filling material will depend on the item you are shipping and type of packaging you are using. For example, heavier items might benefit from foam inserts that offer firm support, while delicate items could be better protected with bubble wrap that cushions against impacts.
To ensure these packing materials are adequate, ensure they fill all voids without compressing the item, offering a snug fit that maintains items stationary throughout their shipping journey in the DHL Express network. Additionally, you can try conducting a "shake test" before sealing the parcel: should you detect movement or sound upon gently shaking the box, it indicates that additional filling material is needed to securely immobilise the contents.
2. Ignoring the removal of lithium batteries
Lithium batteries are used in many electronic devices, such as cell phones, tablets, and laptops. As these batteries can be fire hazards and a risk to flight safety if they’re not properly packed, extra precautions are needed when packing such electronic items for overseas shipping.
Lithium battery shipping is fully regulated under International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations and subject to Dangerous Goods (DG) approval. However, if your lithium batteries meet certain requirements and fall into a lower risk section, you may be exempt from seeking DG approval and can enjoy a simpler shipping process. However, not all types of lithium batteries are accepted in our international shipping network.
As different types of lithium batteries follow different shipping requirements and regulations, the first thing you need to know before shipping your electronic device overseas is which type of battery it uses. The second thing you will need to determine is whether the batteries will be shipped alone, within an electronic device or only in the same package as the device. These factors will determine how you can ship your electronic devices and batteries internationally.
Furthermore, you must be a pre-approved DHL Express account holder to ship lithium batteries. Generally, packages containing equipment with fewer than 2 batteries or 4 cells are accepted for transport without the need for a lithium battery mark and a shipper’s declaration will be required. Additionally, batteries that are swelling, leaking or cracking cannot be shipped as they are a fire hazard.
For more detailed advice on shipping lithium batteries with DHL Express, we recommend referring to our battery shipping guide.
3. Neglecting proper labeling for fragile items
Knowing how to pack fragile items for international shipping is crucial for ensuring their safe arrival across borders. Items such as glass products, antiques, and porcelain are naturally fragile and more likely to get damaged, so they need secure delivery methods, more protective packing and extra careful handling.
Therefore, employing special handling instruction labels is highly recommended. Using labels such as the "handle with care" sticker will aid couriers and handlers in identifying and giving special attention to fragile items throughout the entire shipping process, ensuring their careful handling and secure delivery. Coupled with the expertise of a trusted and experienced international shipping service like DHL Express, this practice significantly enhances the protection and safe transit of your fragile items.
Furthermore, when using these special handling instruction labels, it’s important to ensure that your stickers are durable and use a strong adhesive. Labels that can easily wear away, tear, or become unreadable during transit might result in your fragile items being damaged, misrouted or lost, significantly delaying their arrival or preventing them from reaching their intended recipient. To avoid these issues, opt for durable labels and consider covering them with a clear protective tape to ensure they remain legible and intact throughout its journey.
Other common packaging mistakes
Beyond the common mistakes mentioned above, here are other packaging errors and solutions you should be aware of:
- Choosing the wrong box size and material: If the item is heavy or of high value, consider double boxing it for added protection, or select a box made of thick, sturdy corrugated cardboard to ensure it withstands the rigours of transit.
- Using low-quality tape or sealing methods: Opt for strong and durable tape that keeps the box securely sealed throughout its journey. Applying the tape in an H-pattern – across the middle where the flaps meet and along the edges – reinforces the package's integrity.
- Overlooking waterproofing: Waterproofing safeguards your items against moisture damage. This step is critical, particularly when shipping paper products or electronics, as you can't predict the weather conditions your package will encounter during international shipping.
- Not sealing liquids adequately: When shipping liquids internationally, improper sealing can cause leaks that not only spoil the contents of the package but may also damage other shipments. To prevent this, ensure liquids are secured in leak-proof containers and further enclosed within plastic bags or with additional protective layers.
Packaging with DHL Express
These packaging solutions are vital not only for businesses but also for individuals sending items overseas to friends and family since no one wants to experience the disappointment of receiving a damaged package. Hence, avoiding these common packing mistakes is crucial for ensuring that your items reach their destination safely and intact.
Additionally, for businesses in Hong Kong, it’s not just about sending an item; it’s about delivering an experience to your customers and reflecting your commitment to quality. Which is why partnering with a reliable and experienced logistics service provider like DHL Express is essential to ensure that your goods are delivered promptly and in perfect condition.
If you’re looking to enhance your international shipping operations for your business, open a DHL Express account today and leave your logistics operations to us.
