Packaging Pointers

 

Content

Containers

Cushioning

Closure

Small Odd Shapes

Padded envelopes or small cardboard boxes

Padding such as cotton, newspaper, foam, or plastic bubble sheets to prevent shifting

Adhesive flaps or packaging tape

Awkward Shaped

Fiberboard boxes or tubes (tube ends should equal side wall strength) with length not more than 10 times girth

Preformed fiberboard or foamed plastic shapes to brace item and support container’s surface

Packaging tape (or glue for tube ends)

Fragile Items

Fiberboard boxes (at least 175 box grade)

Foamed plastic or padding to distribute shocks and separate item from container surfaces, individually wrapped items

Packaging tape (used also to reinforce edges)

Shifting Items

Fiberboard boxes (at least 175 box grade, holding up to 20 pounds)

Interior fiberboard separators or tape reinforcement to prevent shifting

Packaging tape (used also to reinforce edges)

Soft Goods

Self-supporting boxes or tear-resistant bags

None necessary

Packaging tape or self-sealing bag

Liquids

Leakproof interior containers packed within durable outer containers

Between interior and outer containers, absorbent wrapping materials to soak up spills and prevent shifting

Packaging tape

Powders

Sift-proof interior containers packed within durable sift-proof outer containers

Padding such as newspaper to prevent shifting

Packaging tape

Perishables

Odor-proof containers

Absorbent wrapping materials to soak up liquids and prevent shifting

Packaging tape

High-Density Loads

Fiberboard boxes (at least 175 box grade, holding up to 20 pounds)

Fiberboard pads for blocking and bracing to prevent shifting

Packaging tape (used also to reinforce edges)