International parcel delivery doesn’t come cheap. You choose a reputable courier company to delivery your goods, because you want to make sure that they arrive in good condition and on time.

But aside from selecting a reliable courier service, you also need to ensure that the items you’re going to send are packed properly for worldwide delivery. Proper packing of your goods helps keep them undamaged by factors like handling and weather conditions. If any damage happens to your parcel that’s improperly packed, you might not have any chance to claim or demand anything from the courier company anymore.

Most courier companies would give you suggestions on how you should pack items for international parcel delivery. Among the common but useful ideas are about shipping fragile goods, labeling, and package sealing.

Packing fragile items like gifts and souvenirs made of glass, porcelain or other breakable elements needs extraordinary care. Items like these should be neatly placed in bubble wrap. Some even use two boxes when packing fragile goods. The bubble-wrapped item is placed in a box insulated with packing peanuts. The boxed item is then placed in a slightly bigger box also insulated with packing peanuts. The double box gives extra cushion that’s useful when sending your breakable item on a long journey. Make sure your fragile goods are clearly labeled as such, so that whoever may encounter your package would immediately know that it requires extra care in handling.

In addition, some courier companies even recommend putting labels, including the destination details, not just on the main box, but also on the inside or individual packaging, whenever applicable. In case the box is damaged, your items will still surely make it to their destination.

Always make sure that each of your items is well-protected from accidents or unfortunate circumstances. Water-resistant boxes are not a common find in some countries. If you aren’t able to get one, use plastic wraps or big zip-lock bags for your items before placing them in a regular delivery box. Important documents should be neatly sealed in durable plastic sheets. If you’re sending toiletries, edibles or other items in the form of gels or liquids, make sure they are all sealed and securely packed in leak-proof containers.

When you’re sending international parcel, the costs are always higher than the standard postal rates. You’re paying a premium for your package to get to its destination safely and swiftly. It is just right that you pack it well to help guarantee that it arrives at its recipient’s doorstep on time and in good condition.