Some companies believe the parcel carriers should improve their method of handling packages. While it is no secret the carriers handle a package many times throughout its life cycle from pickup to delivery; for the most part, carriers take great care and interest to ensure your package is serviced damage-free. Yes, occasionally a package handler will throw, or even stepped-on. But, for the most part, a package is damaged as a result of improper packaging on the part of the company shipping the product.
Improper packaging often results in damaged product or enroute repackaging by the carrier. At best, this slows transit time and adds cost to the carrier, and often the goods never arrive to the consignee. The net result is typically a late delivery, no delivery, or damaged goods upon arrival.
While it is true that all carriers reserve the right to refuse any package that is improperly packaged, this practice is seldom used. Carriers are in the business to service packages, not refuse them. Needless to say, just because a carrier picks up your package doesn’t mean it is properly packaged. So the onus falls on your shoulders to ensure proper packaging surrounds your products.
Here are some tips for properly packaging:
- Use only good, sturdy boxes with all flaps intact. If you recycle boxes, ensure they are in good condition with all flaps intact – no holes, tears, or dented corners. Used boxes may save you a few cents upfront, but they can cost you dearly if they are in poor condition.
- Improper internal packaging is a very common mistake. Ensure there is room for cushioning material to protect all sides of your product from impact against the box. Without sufficient internal protection, a blow to the outside of the box will pass through to the contents. The contents must be protected from every direction. That includes the bottom, top, and all four sides. Place the contents in the center of the box allowing it to rest inside with space available on all sides for cushioning material. Use several inches of cushioning to surround the contents. Remember that it’s not just the physical handling that is a concern, the packaging must also protect the contents during jarring transit activity.
- Sealing your package is an important next step. If the flaps open in transit, the contents are likely to be separated from the box. The key to proper closure is using tape designed for shipping. Cellophane and masking tape are not sufficient. Neither have the strength to hold corregated box flaps together during the rigors of package handling and transit. Use one of three types of tape: water-activated paper tape, water-activated reinforced tape, or pressure-sensitive plastic tape. Regardless of your selection, use a minimum two-inch width.
- Although not considered part of packaging, a properly prepared and affixed address label is essential for on-time delivery. Place the consignee and return address labels the “top” of the box. The “top” is the side of the box that faces up when it is placed in its most stable position. This is important since all carriers will be using conveyor belts to transfer your package within their sortation facilities. Do not apply labels over seams or on top of sealing tape.
Now that you have reviewed these tips, are your products properly packaged for safe shipping? If not, there is no better time than today to improve your method. Remember, your objective is for your customer to receive their package in the same condition it was shipped. Your packaging practices have the greatest impact in this area, even more so than the actions of your carrier. Help yourself, your carrier, and your customers by improving your packaging practices today!
Joe Loughran
Joe Loughran is President of Parcel Rate Solutions and an expert in the parcel industry. Parcel Rate Solutions is a transportation consulting company offering services in Carrier Rate Analysis and Carrier Agreement Analysis. Joe can be reached by phone at (724) 934-0626 or email: loughran@parcelratesolutions.com.