Packaging Guidelines

What is Proper Packaging?

Proper packaging is the foundation of a successful shipping journey. It not only protects your items from damage but also ensures compliance with carrier packaging requirements. U-PIC's policy emphasizes that packages must be addressed, wrapped, and packed correctly, and in-line with carrier packaging requirements to qualify for insurance coverage. Additionally, U-PIC's policy states that shippers must not send packages with descriptive labels or in packaging that describes the nature of its contents.

Best Practices for Proper Packaging

• Appropriate Packaging Materials: Choose sturdy boxes or padded envelopes that match the size and weight of the contents being shipped. Avoid reusing old or damaged packaging materials, as they can compromise the package's integrity. For fragile items, refrain from using envelopes or soft packaging.
• Cushioning: Provide sufficient cushioning materials inside the package, such as bubble wrap, foam peanuts, or air pillows, to protect the items from shock and impact during transit.
• Secure Contents: Ensure that the items inside the package are tightly secured and won't shift during shipment. Fill any void spaces with additional cushioning material to prevent movement.
• Non-Descriptive Labeling and Packaging: Reduce the risk of theft or unwanted attention. Avoid revealing details on the outside of the package, especially when shipping sensitive or valuable items. This helps prevent potential thieves from identifying the contents. It is important to note that if a package is found to have been mailed out in descriptive packaging, it will not qualify for coverage with U-PIC Shipping Insurance.

Types of Packaging Material

• Corrugated Box: Durable and widely used for its strength.
• Bubble Wrap: Provides cushioning for fragile items.
• Foam Cushioning: Absorbs shock and protects delicate or sensitive items.
• Packing Peanuts: Prevents items from shifting inside boxes.
• Straps: Cloth or metal strips that secure items together for travel.
• Stretch Film: Secures items together, often used for securing pallets.
• Tape: Seal boxes and secures contents.
• Dunnage: Materials placed inside containers to fill voids and prevent movement.
• Insulated Packaging: Maintains temperature of perishable goods during transit. This can include insulated boxes, liners, and gel packs.

Methods of Packaging

• Wrap and Pad: Wrap fragile items individually and place them in a sturdy box with cushioning material.
• Overboxing: Place small boxed items in a larger outer box for added protection.
• Palletizing: Secure multiple items on a pallet with straps or film to prevent shifting during transportation.
• Crating: Use custom wooden crates for very valuable or delicate items.
• Bag and Box: Place items that might leak in plastic bags, then pack the bags into sturdy boxes.
• Tube Packaging: Use sturdy cardboard tubes for posters or documents.
• Sealing: Seal all boxes securely with high-quality packaging tape.

Meeting Carrier Packaging Requirements

Understanding specific packaging requirements of your chosen carriers is important. Not only because it adds an extra layer of protection for your shipments, but in order to qualify for shipping insurance coverage with U-PIC Shipping Insurance, shippers must avoid addressing, wrapping, or packing their packages insufficiently, incorrectly, or contrary to the carrier's packaging requirements.

Every carrier has its own set of packaging requirements. We chose the carriers listed below because they are popular amongst our clients here at U-PIC. If you do not see your carrier listed, we encourage you to reach out to them for their specific packaging guidelines and resources.

UPS Requirements

• Opt for new corrugated boxes for shipping.
• Select boxes that can support the weight of the contents and any additional cushioning.
• Wrap each item separately to avoid damage caused by items rubbing against each other.
• Use adequate cushioning for a snug fit and to protect fragile items.

See more UPS packaging guidelines.

USPS Requirements

• Use sturdy boxes designed for shipping.
• Avoid using boxes with old labels or markings to prevent confusion.
• Place a duplicate label with the recipient's address inside the package in case the external label becomes illegible during transit.

Check out USPS packaging expectations.

FedEx Requirements

• Utilize strong corrugated boxes with proper sealing.
• Secure the package with pressure-sensitive plastic tape.
• Remove any old labels or markings from previously used boxes.

Look further into FedEx's general packaging guidelines.

Conclusion

Proper packaging is essential for safe transit, for meeting your carrier's packaging requirements, and ultimately meeting the conditions of your U-PIC policy. By following the best practices, methods and material discussed in this guide, shippers can enhance the chances of their shipments arriving intact and receiving appropriate coverage under our policy.

Remember, investing time and effort into secure packaging not only safeguards your items but also ensures a seamless shipping experience, benefiting both the shipper and the recipient.

For further insights on packaging techniques and safe delivery, explore our blog "Packaging Tips for Shippers." Additionally, our claims team offers expert advice on how to avoid claim denials.

If you have questions about proper packaging techniques, following carrier guidelines, or shipping insurance in general, you can give us a call at 800-955-4623, email us at support@u-pic.com, or initiate a chat at the bottom right hand corner of the screen.