The Small Business Guide to Posting Fragile Items Safely

When you run a small business, every parcel matters. Whether you're sending a handmade candle, a ceramic mug, or a bottle of something bubbly, shipping fragile items can feel like a gamble - but it doesn't have to. This guide will walk you through the best packaging practices to ensure your delicate goods arrive in one piece (and your customers stay smiling).

📦 1. Pick the Right Box or Envelope

Let’s start with the basics — your outer packaging matters more than you think.

• Rigid cardboard boxes: Choose double-walled boxes or reinforced board for anything remotely breakable. Our postal boxes are ideal for smaller fragile goods, while larger items may need a corrugated box.
• Padded mailing envelopes: Great for smaller, lightweight items like jewellery or tech accessories. Go for bubble-lined envelopes or paper padded envelopes for added cushioning.

👉 Pro tip: Don’t go too big. A box that’s far larger than the item invites damage and will cost you more to send. Keep it snug, with about 2 inches of space for padding around your product.

🧻 2. Cushion Like a Pro (It’s Not Just Bubble Wrap!)

Ah, bubble wrap - the MVP of packaging. But there are plenty of eco-friendly and clever alternatives too:

• Hivewrap or Paper Bubble Wrap – Offers great protection with sustainability points. It clings nicely around products without tape.
• Air packaging – Best for protecting your bottles, electronics and ceramics during transport. View our range of air packaging here.
• Loose fill (aka packing peanuts) – Choose biodegradable versions only.
• Crumpled kraft paper – Cheap, clean and compostable. Get some zigzag shredded paper here.

Wrap your item fully, then place it in the centre of the box with filler on all sides. If it’s touching the edges of the box - it’s a no-go.

📏 3. Use ‘The Shake Test’

After you’ve packed everything, close the box and give it a gentle shake. If you can hear movement? You’ve got work to do. Add more void fill or adjust the internal layout until the item stays put.

📛 4. Don’t Skimp on the Tape

Your packaging tape is your final line of defence. A split-open box is a return waiting to happen.

• Use strong parcel tape, not cellophane or masking tape (we know it's tempting).
• Reinforce all seams and edges - especially the bottom.
• For bonus points, try paper tape with water-activated adhesive - eco and tough as nails.

🚚 5. Clearly Mark Your Parcel

It’s not a guarantee, but labelling your parcel “FRAGILE” and “HANDLE WITH CARE” helps alert couriers (the nice ones, at least) to take care of the parcel they are delivering. You can:

• Use warning stickers or warning tapes.
• Write it directly on the box in marker pen.
• Add “Top Load Only” or “Do Not Stack” where appropriate.

🧾 Bonus. Include an Inner Thank You and/or Info Sheet

Not essential for safety - but great for branding. A small thank you card, care instructions, or contact info adds a personal touch. If anything does go wrong in transit, customers will know how to reach you quickly.

🚀 Final Thought: Safe Delivery = Happy Customers

Investing time and care in your packaging isn’t just about avoiding damages - it’s about building trust and encouraging repeat orders. At Parcelsend UK, we stock everything you need to send fragile goods safely, affordably, and (if you like) sustainably too. View our range of packaging supplies here.

Need help choosing the right packaging? Get in touch with our team today - we’re happy to help.