The basic rule: nothing moves
A long journey means vibration, braking and loading. If you gently shake the closed box and hear something moving, there’s still space to fill.
What you’ll need
- a strong cardboard box, double-walled if possible;
- bubble wrap or newspaper;
- wide packing tape;
- plastic bags for jars and bottles.
Jars and bottles
- Make sure they’re tightly closed. You can put cling film under the lid.
- Put each jar in a sealed bag in case it leaks.
- Wrap it in bubble wrap or paper.
- Stand them upright, close together, with cardboard between them.
Mind the contents: some foods aren’t allowed into the UK. See our page on what can’t be sent.
Plates, mugs, ceramics
Plates travel better packed on their edge (standing up), not stacked flat. Fill mugs with paper and wrap them separately.
Electronics
If you have the original box, use it. If not, wrap the device in bubble wrap and put cardboard over the screen. Remove detachable batteries and tell us if you’re sending devices with large batteries.
Sealing the box
- Tape all the seams, top and bottom, in an “H” shape.
- Write “FRAGILE” on every side.
- Write the recipient’s name, phone number and address.
Tell us beforehand
If you’re sending something very fragile or valuable, tell us when you book. That way we know how to place it in the van. There are more tips in our packing guide.