How to send fragile items by post

Sending fragile items can seem tricky - it can be hard to work out the best and most effective way to wrap and protect items like glass, crockery and delicate jewellery, but there’s a simple way to get it right. Whether you’re sending a birthday gift or setting up your own side hustle, here’s our tried-and-tested guide to safely sending fragile items.
 

How to package a fragile parcel

Choose the right box

You’ll want to choose a robust box which will effectively protect your items and be able to withstand the journey - if you can, find a high-quality, heavy duty box with a double-corrugated cardboard wall which your item(s) can fit inside. You don’t want the fit to be too snug, as you’ll need to add an extra protective layer of bubblewrap or styrofoam before you seal the box.

However, the box shouldn’t be too roomy, as your item could slide around during transit - this will only increase the odds of items breaking. 

It can be tempting to reuse a cardboard box you already have - such as a shoebox, or an Amazon box. We’d advise you to avoid doing this, as already-used boxes are less structurally-sound, are softer and more prone to damage during transit. If you’d prefer to use your own boxes, check it thoroughly for signs of wear and tear before using it to post fragile items - and if in doubt, buy a new box. 

You can buy good-quality packaging from most Post Office^® branches.
 

How to wrap fragile items

We recommend using the following materials to effectively protect fragile items:

• Cardboard dividers - these stop items slipping around in transit, and they’re handy if you’re sending multiple items in the same box
• Bubblewrap - this acts as a protective layer which absorbs any knocks or jolts during your parcel’s journey
• Polystyrene ‘biscuits’ or styrofoam - these effectively fill up any leftover space and cushion your item
• Surround each fragile item with at least 5cm of cushioning material.

We don’t recommend using the following materials to wrap fragile items:

• Balled-up newspaper - it’s flimsy and ineffective at absorbing shocks or jolts
• Airbags - these small plastic ‘pillows’ are prone to popping, and if they do, your items are immediately more at risk of breaking

To wrap your item, start with a layer of bubblewrap with small bubbles. Wrap it around your item, making sure to securely get the bubblewrap under and over all parts of the item, and secure with sticky tape. 

This part is easier for square or uniform items - if you’re wrapping an item such as a small ceramic figure, it can be simpler to lie the item down and ‘roll’ it in several layers of bubblewrap. 

Depending on how much protection your item needs, you can then add a second layer of bubble wrap with larger bubbles - this will also help to ‘bulk out’ space in the box to help avoid your item moving around. 

If you’re sending two or more fragile items, separate them in the box with robust cardboard dividers - even if they’re well-wrapped with bubblewrap, they could still knock against each other and cause damage. 

Once your items are securely wrapped, you can then add a layer of styrofoam or polystyrene ‘biscuits’ into the box as a liner. Place your items in the box, and fill up any spaces with additional packaging materials. Try not to overpack, as this could cause the box to ‘burst open’ during transit. Seal the box securely with strong tape.
  

Top tips for sending fragile items:

• Make sure any outer containers are strong enough for their contents
• Fragile items shouldn't touch either each other, or the side of the container
• Write a return address on the item
• Put a contact name, address and telephone number inside your package
• Seal your parcel securely with strong tape along all edges and openings
• Flatten any sharp edge from staples or metal fastenings, and cover them with tape
• Use a 'FRAGILE' sticker, if necessary. These are available at most Post Office^® branches.
   

Posting fragile parcels

Once your parcel’s securely wrapped and ready to post, you can send your parcel in several ways with Royal Mail.

• Head into your nearest Post Office^® branch - staff there will be able to help you make sure you pick the correct postage option for your parcel, and send it safely on its way
• Buy postage online and have your parcel collected for FREE from your home

What happens if my parcel gets damaged in transit?

Our staff do everything they can to get your mail safely from A to B; we use machines to sort your mail, and occasionally this can result in packaging being damaged. The best way of avoiding any potential damage to parcels containing fragile items is to make sure you’re using high-quality protective materials and a robust box, which has been sealed well.

If we spot a damaged item, we will place it in a Royal Mail bag to try and prevent further damage. However, it's always better to make sure your package is effectively protected and sealed before posting so your compensation isn't affected if the item doesn't arrive as expected.

Related articles

Sending food by post?