PACKAGING GUIDELINES

Packaging & Preparation

Professional Preparation for Safe, Secure & Controlled Transport.

Correct packaging is essential to ensure your consignment travels safely, securely and without disruption throughout transit. To support a smooth and reliable delivery, please follow the guidelines below when preparing items for collection

1. External Packaging

Use strong, undamaged and industry-appropriate packaging.

Recommended:

• New double-walled cartons for heavy, fragile or high-value items
• Rigid corrugated boxes with intact corners and flaps
• Removal of all previous labels and markings
• Packaging that supports the weight and structure of the goods
• Avoid using boxes that have been reused multiple times — structural strength reduces significantly.

Correct packaging plays a critical role in preventing damage, ensuring safe handling and maintaining the integrity of your goods throughout transit.

2. Securing Your Package

Seal all openings using strong, commercial-grade tape.

Use:

• Polypropylene or PVC box-sealing tape (minimum width 5cm)
• H-taping method for top and bottom seams

Avoid:

• Masking tape
• String or rope
• Paper wrapping

These materials do not provide adequate security during transportation.

3. Internal Protection

Protect items from shock, vibration and movement.

Best practice:

• Wrap fragile items individually
• Maintain at least 5cm of protective cushioning from all box walls
• Prevent internal movement by filling voids completely

Suitable internal materials:

• Bubble wrap
• Polyethylene foam
• Engineered foam inserts
• Corrugated board strips
• Kraft paper for non-fragile items
• Polystyrene loose-fill

The material should match the fragility, weight and profile of the item being transported.

4. Liquids (If Applicable)

Liquids must be packed with additional safeguards:

• Sealed, leak-proof primary containers
• Impermeable wrapping
• Absorbent cushioning around each container
• Pack separately from other goods

⚠️ Liquids are not accepted on international services without prior arrangement.

5. Palletised Shipments

For palletised or heavy consignments:

• Use a stable, undamaged pallet suitable for the load
• Secure using shrink-wrap and/or pallet banding
• Avoid overhanging items
• Maintain even weight distribution
• Reinforce corners and edges with protective materials

Correct pallet preparation ensures safe forklift and tail-lift handling.

6. Labelling & Documentation

To prevent delays or misrouting:

• Ensure labels are clear, legible and securely attached
• Place labels on one flat, visible surface
• Include a duplicate label inside the packaging
• Remove outdated labels and barcodes

Accurate labelling is essential to ensure correct routing, prevent delays and maintain a smooth delivery process.

Important Notice

These guidelines are provided to support safe transportation.

However, the customer is solely responsible for ensuring their packaging is suitable, secure and compliant with handling requirements. AAA Couriers cannot accept liability for damage resulting from inadequate or unsuitable packaging.

Need Assistance?

For guidance on preparing fragile, high-value or specialist items, our team can advise prior to collection.

📞 01482 227 304

📧 enquiries@aaacouriers.co.uk