Mastering the Art of Packing
Fragile Items for International
Shipping | PantherX Guide
Expert Insights by PantherX Logistics Team
Nothing is more heartbreaking than opening a parcel to find a broken vase or a cracked screen. When shipping internationally from Jaipur, your package travels thousands of miles. Proper packing is not just an option; it's a necessity.
Table of Contents
- 1. The "Floating" Technique: The Golden Rule
- 2. Choose the Right Box (It Matters!)
- 3. Wrapping Layers: Bubble Wrap vs. Foam
- 4. Packing Glass, Ceramics, and Pottery
- 5. Labeling: Make it Loud and Clear
Chapter 1: The "Floating" Technique: The Golden Rule
Layering is Key
The number one reason for breakage is impact. If your item touches the walls of the box, it will break when the box is bumped. The solution is the Floating Technique.
This means your item should be suspended in the center of the box, with at least 2 inches (5 cm) of cushioning material on all sides—top, bottom, left, right, front, and back. It should never touch the cardboard directly.
Chapter 2: Choose the Right Box (It Matters!)
Using an old, reused box is a recipe for disaster. Cardboard loses 50% of its strength after one use. Always use a Brand New, Double-Walled (5-Ply or 7-Ply) Corrugated Box.
For extremely heavy or fragile items, consider double-boxing: place your packed box inside a slightly larger box with a layer of peanuts in between.
Chapter 3: Wrapping Layers: Bubble Wrap vs. Foam
Not all wraps are equal. Bubble Wrap is great for impact protection, but it can leave marks on polished surfaces. Foam Sheets are better for scratch protection.
Pro Strategy: Wrap the item in a foam sheet first (to prevent scratches), then wrap it in 3 layers of large-bubble Bubble Wrap (to prevent breakage), and finally tape it securely.
Chapter 4: Packing Glass, Ceramics, and Pottery
Jaipur is famous for Blue Pottery, but it is notoriously fragile. When packing hollow items like vases or bowls, you must fill the void.
Stuff the inside of the vase tightly with paper or bubble wrap. This prevents the item from imploding under pressure. Treat the handle and spout as separate parts—wrap them individually before wrapping the whole piece.
Chapter 5: Labeling: Make it Loud and Clear
A sticker saying "Fragile" won't magically protect your box, but it helps handlers know what to expect. Place 'Fragile' and 'This Side Up' stickers on all four vertical sides and the top.
However, never rely solely on stickers. Pack as if the handlers are blindfolded! Your packing should survive a 3-foot drop test.
Don't Want to Risk It?
Let PantherX Professionals Pack for You!
We offer expert packaging services in Jaipur.