Shipping fragile items can be a complex process that requires special attention and care during transportation. There's nothing worse than a customer receiving broken wine glasses or a smashed laptop, which can lead to a negative experience and loss of trust in your business. They may ask for a replacement or refund, which can be time-consuming and costly for your business. In some cases, the damage may be irreparable, and you may lose the customer altogether.
One of the main challenges of shipping fragile items is the multiple elements – impact, pressure, and moisture – your shipment is exposed to whilst en route to the receiver. Items like glassware, ceramics, and electronics can easily break or become damaged if not packaged correctly. That's why it's important to take the necessary steps to prevent this. But fear not. With a little know-how and some clever packaging tricks, you can ensure that your fragile objects arrive at their destination in the same condition they left in. This way, you can improve customer loyalty with every delivery.
In this article, we'll provide expert tips on how to package and ship fragile items with DHL Express, including selecting the right materials and shipping options.
Choosing the right materials
Due to their delicate nature, you need to ensure that these items are properly protected throughout the shipping journey. Whether you’re shipping musical instruments such as violins or artwork like sculptures, packaging is of utmost importance. When packaging fragile items for shipping, it's essential to use the right materials to protect them during transportation. Here are some tips on choosing the right materials:
Bubble wrap
Bubble wrap provides cushioning and shock absorption, helping to prevent damage during shipping. Wrap your fragile item with several layers of bubble wrap, making sure to cover all sides and corners.
Foam sheets or peanuts
Foam peanuts are used to fill gaps and provide extra cushioning around your item. You can also use foam sheets to wrap your fragile item before adding bubble wrap for added protection.
Sturdy boxes
When packing and shipping fragile items, it's important to use sturdy boxes that can withstand the rigors of transportation. Use a box that is slightly larger than your item and fill any gaps with packing material to prevent it from moving around during transit.
Water-resistant packaging materials
Place your fragile items inside a plastic bag or wrap them in plastic to create a waterproof barrier. Also, avoid using paper-based materials or cardboard boxes, which can easily become saturated with moisture. Place materials that absorb moisture from the air into your package, such as silica gel packets or other desiccants.
Some additional tips for shipping fragile items:
- Label your box as ‘Fragile" to ensure it's handled with care during transportation.
- Consider double-boxing your fragile item for added protection.
- Use strong tape to seal your box and prevent it from opening during transportation.
- Avoid using newspaper as packing material, as the ink can transfer onto your items and effect permanent stains.
