Now Cargo Ltd is unable to instruct on packaging, however, we are aware that appropriate packaging is essential to ensure the safety of your shipment. Below are some of the industry recommended “Do’s and Don’ts”, as advised by the major carriers, for you to consider when packaging your goods, however, please be aware these notes can only be used as guidance as packing requirements can vary depending upon the nature of the goods being packed.

Once your consignment has been collected the goods will be transported to a depot where they will be weighed and measured to confirm the weights and dimensions provided. The goods will then be placed upon a conveyor belt therefore we strongly recommend you bear this in mind when packing your goods to help ensure they arrive at their end destination in good condition.

If you are sending Paintings or other works of art in order to ensure they are delivered safely we recommend that they are packed professionally. If you require insurance cover for such items an independent valuation will be required in order for the artwork to qualify for insurance cover.

Recommended DO’s

Try to use strong boxes, we recommend corrugated boxes with outer liners or boxes bubble wrap lining. Ensure that you do not overfill the boxes or make them to heavy to handle. Also ensure that the boxes aren’t too big for the items being packed as movement within the box could also cause damage. Boxes are often stacked on top of each other and must therefore be able support a reasonable amount of additional weight. Boxes that are too full may burst open or split with the additional weight and boxes that are too empty may collapse under the additional weight.

Try to ensure that the goods are adequately cushioned inside their box, if the contents are touching the sides of the box they are more likely to suffer damage from impact during transit that may occur. We recommend that you use bubble wrap, Styrofoam or other cushioning materials to help provide adequate cushioning of your goods. Please take particular care to cushion any items which may have sharp or pointy edges such as metal cabinets, damage to boxes containing such items could be a health and safety risk to staff handling the goods.

When packing mobile phones the complete handset should be separated in to its constituent parts of the handset, the sim card and battery, these must also be wrapped separately.

Liquids, semi-liquids and powders must in the first instance be sealed in a suitable leak proof container that will ensure that none of the contents can leak out. Goods can then be packed as recommended above. Movement of liquids is prohibited in certain countries it is your responsibility to ensure that the liquids can enter the destination country.

If you have more than one item in a box ensure that each item is individually wrapped and cushioned also ensure that there is sufficient cushioning between the items as they will impact during transit.

If you are using an old or reused box in the first instance ensure it is strong enough to withstand the vigour’s of transit, secondly remove any previous labels to ensure the goods are delivered to the correct address.

Ensure that the destination address is clearly written or labelled on each box; ensure that the address matches the address on the label provided by the driver at the time of collection. It is your responsibility to ensure the consignment note/air way bill provided by the driver is completed fully and accurately.

For security purposes leave the package open for the driver to confirm the contents before applying the final seal. Once the driver has confirmed the items agree with your booking final seal can be applied. It is your responsibility to ensure the box is sealed so use plenty of tape.

Recommended Don’t

“Fragile” or “Handle with care” stickers are not a sufficient warning that the items are to be handled with care. Once the goods are placed on the automated conveyor belt it will not be able differentiate. The labels are useful as additional information, particularly for manual handling but they do not in any way replace good and careful packing.

Do not use string or rope to seal your parcels, packaging tape is the only suitable way to seal your goods.

Do not assume that the packaging you have received goods in is suitable for onward transit. Check the goods to ensure you are satisfied with the condition they have arrived in and then ensure they are adequately repacked for further transit.

Never use bags, sheets or any other type of fabric, as these are not considered as suitable packing material for your goods during transit.

Finally, do not try to conceal prohibited items within your packaging as the goods will be inspected by the driver to confirm the contents before collection is made.

This packing advice can only be used as guidance as it is ultimately your responsibility to ensure that your goods are packaged to withstand the rigors of transit. Improper packaging can result in the goods being damaged during transit and any insurance claims will become null and void. If you would like any further assistance please contact us and we will be delighted to help.

If you require further assistance or have any questions our customer service support team, on 0121 270 2047 or 0845 872 4807, will be more than happy to help you.