5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Rigid Packaging for Shipping

When it comes to shipping different products to long-distance customers, businesses must use rigid packaging. It is the best option to ensure product protection due to its durability. Your packaging is the first thing that draws customers to it and promotes your brand’s products.

However, there are some common mistakes that businesses make, which lead to damages. To ensure your product arrives in perfect condition, we will share five common mistakes that need to be avoided when using rigid packaging for shipping.

1. Avoid Using Extra Cushioning

Using rigid boxes doesn’t mean you can avoid the use of extra padding or cushioning material.  Bubble wraps, cardboard or foam insets, and dividers are the best options to cover the box edges and maximize product protection. Shock-absorb packing peanuts reduce the shocks and help to transit your goods securely.

Tips

• Use partitions to break the order and ensure safety
• Use high-quality inserts and dividers
• Use an ample amount of packing peanuts for item

2. Choose the Wrong Packaging Box Size

Your packaging box size plays a vital role in ensuring that your product will be delivered securely. An extra-large box takes extra space in the shipping vehicle and increases your shipping cost while a too-small box hugs your items tightly and sometimes leads to scratches or damages during transit. Thus, it is essential to choose the right size that perfectly fits your items.

Tips

• Use the adjustable box to manage space
• Check the weight of your items exactly before choosing a box size
• Fill empty spaces with packing peanuts

3. Forget to Label the Box of Fragile Items

When shipping delicate goods for a long journey, it is essential to label the box “handle with care”. So, make sure your shipping box is clearly labeled with information such as handling instructions, “This side is up” or “Fragile goods”. These labels help the carriers understand how to handle or hold your items during transit.  

Tips

• Use “Fragile” stickers or prominently print the text on the box
• Use Pictures or bold text to understand, the box holds delicate items
• Avoid using stickers on just one side, place them on all sides of the package for better visibility

4. The Box Is Not Properly Sealed

During shipping the foremost thing to prevent your goods from being damaged is the sealing of boxes. You can use durable and strong packing tape to seal the box from the top and end. A secure seal ensures that your items remain secure during transit and reach in good condition at clients’ doorstep.

Tips                                                                                                              

• Use high-quality packaging tape to seal the box
• Think about tape layering (if heavyweight items are packed in a box)
• Apply tape to the edges of the packaging box

5. Overpack The Items and Not Consider the Box Weight

Overpacking not only leads to an increase in the shipping cost. But more than that, damaged your item due to an overweight item in the box. When you overpack items, the box cannot balance the weight of extra items and damages your goods. Ignoring the weight instruction leads to additional fees or rejection of the package by the carrier.

Tips

• Check the weight restrictions of your selected shipping method
• Avoid unnecessary weight
• Use a scale to weigh your package before shipping accurately

Conclusion

Using custom rigid packaging is a reliable way to ensure your product security during shipping. But, it is essential to avoid some common mistakes for a safe and successful delivery. Choose the right size. Use a good seal and efficient labels. This will keep delicate products harmless during shipping. Furthermore, extra cushioning, over-packing, and the box weight need to be considered.