Proper packaging is crucial for ensuring your items arrive safely at their European destination. Whether shipping by air or sea, your parcels will face handling, temperature changes, and potential impacts during their journey from Calgary to Europe.
Choosing the Right Box
The foundation of good packaging starts with selecting an appropriate container. Use a sturdy, corrugated cardboard box that's in excellent condition – avoid reused boxes that show signs of wear or damage. The box should be large enough to accommodate your items plus adequate cushioning material, but not so large that items can shift during transit.
For international shipping, double-wall corrugated boxes are recommended for their superior strength and protection. The box should be able to withstand the weight of other packages stacked on top of it during transport. If shipping particularly heavy items, consider using a wooden crate for maximum protection and structural integrity.
Essential Cushioning Materials
Proper cushioning is what protects your items from the inevitable bumps and impacts during international transit. Bubble wrap is excellent for wrapping individual items, providing a protective barrier against scratches and minor impacts. Use larger bubbles for lightweight items and smaller bubbles for fragile or delicate items that need more precise protection.
Fill empty spaces with appropriate void-fill materials such as packing peanuts, air pillows, or crumpled newspaper. The goal is to prevent items from moving within the box during handling. Avoid using materials like popcorn or biodegradable packing peanuts, as they can attract moisture and pests during long sea voyages.
Special Considerations for Fragile Items
Fragile items require extra attention and specialized packaging techniques. Wrap each piece individually in bubble wrap, ensuring complete coverage with no exposed surfaces. For glass items, consider double-boxing – place the wrapped item in a smaller box with cushioning, then place that box inside a larger one with additional padding.
Electronics require special consideration due to their sensitivity to static electricity and impact. Use anti-static bubble wrap or bags when packaging electronic devices. Remove batteries from electronic items before shipping, as they can leak during transport and damage your equipment. Include original packaging when possible, as it's specifically designed to protect the item.
Sealing and Labeling Best Practices
Proper sealing ensures your package stays intact throughout its journey. Use high-quality packing tape that's at least 2 inches wide. Apply tape to all seams, including the center seam and both ends of the box. For added security, use the "H" pattern – tape along all edges and across the center of both the top and bottom of the box.
Clear, accurate labeling is essential for international shipping. Ensure recipient addresses are complete and legible, including postal codes and country names. Avoid placing labels over seams or edges where they might be damaged. Include your return address and consider adding "FRAGILE" or "HANDLE WITH CARE" labels when appropriate, though these won't guarantee special handling.
Professional Packaging Services
While proper packaging is something you can do yourself, professional packaging services offer additional peace of mind, especially for valuable or extremely fragile items. At Polimark Shipping, we offer expert wrap and strap services that use professional-grade materials and techniques to ensure maximum protection during transit.
Our shrink wrapping and poly strapping services provide an additional layer of security, keeping everything tightly bound and protected from moisture and handling damage. This is particularly valuable for oddly shaped items or multiple pieces that need to be shipped together as a single unit.
Expert Packaging Available
Not confident in your packaging skills? Polimark Shipping offers professional packaging services to ensure your items are properly protected for international shipping. Our experienced team knows how to package everything from delicate antiques to modern electronics for safe delivery to Europe.