To pack electronics for posting, wrap the item in a protective layer, hold it in the centre of a sturdy box with cushioning on every side, and make sure nothing can move when you shake the sealed parcel. The box matters as much as the padding, because cushioning only works when it has a firm outer shell to push against. Here is how to do it properly, step by step.
Why do electronics get damaged in the post?
Electronics usually fail in transit for three reasons: impact on a corner or edge, pressure on a screen or casing, and movement inside an oversized box. A phone, tablet or small gadget that slides around in a half-empty box takes a hit every time the parcel is dropped, tipped or stacked. Good packing removes the movement and spreads the shock across a larger area.
What do you need to pack electronics safely?
You do not need an elaborate kit. A short, sensible list covers most items:
- A rigid outer box with room for cushioning on all six sides, ideally a double wall box for heavier or more valuable items.
- Cushioning such as inflatable air packaging, bubble wrap or crinkle cut paper.
- A first layer of soft wrap or a sleeve, so the item's surface is not scratched.
- Strong tape to seal every seam of the box.
Step 1: Choose a box that is only slightly bigger than the item
Pick a box that leaves roughly 3 to 5cm of space around the item for cushioning. Too tight and there is no protection. Too big and the item has room to build up speed before it hits a wall. Measure the item at its longest, widest and deepest points, then allow for the cushioning layer you plan to use. Our size finder lets you enter your item's dimensions and shows the stocked sizes that fit, closest first.
Browse the full range of postal boxes to compare wall strengths. Boxes are supplied flat-packed, so you can hold a stock of different sizes without taking up much room.
Step 2: Wrap the item first
Give the item its own protective layer before it goes near the box. For anything with a screen, glossy casing or fine finish, use a soft inner wrap or a bubble wrap sleeve so the cushioning does not rub the surface. Cover ports, buttons and any protruding parts so they cannot catch or snap.
If the item came in its retail box, keep that box on, but treat it as a layer of the inner packaging, not as the shipping carton. Retail boxes are not designed to survive a courier network on their own.
Step 3: Cushion on all six sides
Place a layer of cushioning in the base of the box, set the wrapped item in the centre, then fill the sides and top so the item sits suspended. Two options work particularly well for electronics:
- Inflatable air packaging. The air cushions fill around the item and hold it in place. We stock air packaging for electronics along with hand pumps.
- Bubble wrap or crinkle cut paper. Both are available in our void fill and bubble wrap collection. Use several layers of bubble wrap, and pack crinkle cut paper firmly so it does not settle during transit.
Whichever you choose, finish with the shake test: close the flaps, hold the box and give it a gentle shake. If you can feel or hear the item moving, add more cushioning.
Step 4: Seal the box properly
Run tape along the centre seam and along both edges of the seam on the top and the base. Press it down firmly, because a weak seal is one of the commonest ways for a box to open under pressure. A 48mm tape is standard for parcels, and you will find options in our packaging tape collection. For help matching tape to your box and conditions, see our guide on how to choose the right packaging tape.
What about batteries and high-value items?
Many electronic items contain batteries, and carriers apply their own rules to posting them. Before you send anything with a battery inside or packed alongside it, read the current rules on your chosen carrier's website, as they can change and differ between services. For high-value items, check the compensation limit and whether the service you are using is tracked, and photograph the item and the packing before sealing the box in case you ever need to make a claim.
Does a bigger box cost more to send?
It can. Couriers may charge on the volume of a parcel as well as its weight, so an oversized box packed with extra filler can cost more than a snug, well-chosen one. Our guide to measuring a parcel and volumetric weight explains how to check this before you ship.
A quick packing checklist for electronics
- Item wrapped in a soft inner layer, with ports and screens covered.
- Box sized with 3 to 5cm of cushioning space on every side.
- Item suspended in the centre, not touching the box walls.
- Shake test passed, with no movement or rattle.
- All seams sealed with strong tape.
- Carrier rules on batteries and compensation checked.
Ready to pack your next order?
Start with the right box and the right cushioning, and most electronics will travel safely. If you want to see everything built for delicate goods in one place, take a look at our fragile packaging solutions, or use the size finder to match a box to your product. Questions about what suits your item? Call us on 01543 572 776 or email info@parcelsend.uk, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
