How to pack shipments for international shipping from Japan with DHL Express

To help your products arrive safely and make a positive impression on your international customers, this guide will walk you through the essential steps of preparing your shipments for international shipping from Japan with DHL Express. Let's explore the key considerations and learn how to pack boxes for shipping overseas.

1. Assess your shipment

Weight and shape of your item

Before you even think about tape or cushioning, take a moment to understand the fundamental characteristics of what you're sending. The weight of your goods will heavily influence the strength and type of outer packaging required. 

For instance, heavy items will require robust, heavy-duty boxes or double-boxing to withstand the rigors of international shipping.

Does the item fit into standard shipping box sizes?

Your item should fit comfortably within standard shipping box sizes without being too snug or leaving excessive empty space. 

If it doesn’t it might be considered an “odd-shaped” or “odd-sized” shipment. In the context of global shipping, these refer to items that cannot easily move along standard conveyor belt systems used in sorting facilities. These non-conveyable items might include cylindrical objects, items with protruding parts, or those that are unusually long or flat.

Here is a list of standard DHL Express box sizes for international shipping so you can judge if your item will fit.

2. Choose your packaging material

Sustainable packaging

In today's global marketplace, international shipping practices are increasingly influenced by environmental consciousness. For businesses looking to export from Japan, using sustainable packaging for shipping is not only an ethical choice but also a way to resonate with international consumers who prioritize eco-friendly practices. 

Use packaging that is clearly labeled as recycled content and strive to minimize unnecessary packaging in order to demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. In many Western countries, consumers are highly sensitive to over-packaging and may react negatively to excessive use of non-recyclable materials in international delivery.

Internal packaging

For adequate internal packaging, begin by lining the bottom of your chosen box with a generous layer of internal cushioning. You can use bubble wrap, foam blocks or chips, or inflatable air cushions, all designed to absorb shocks during global shipping.

External packaging

Your external packaging is the first line of defence when packaging a product for shipping. Select a suitable box that can fit the contents of your shipment with about 6cm of excess space. An appropriate box size for your shipment will also help you save on costs, as oversized packaging can lead to higher fees due to dimensional weight calculations.

DHL Express provides packaging free of charge to business account holders.

3. Seal the shipment

Making sure your package is sealed correctly is a critical step when preparing a package for international shipping. You should ensure all edges and seams of the box are thoroughly taped, and that the edges of the box are reinforced, as these points are most vulnerable to pressure and impact during transit.

H-taping method

The best practice for sealing a box is the H-taping method. 

1. Apply 1 strip of tape along the center seam
2. Apply 2 strips of tape across both edge seams. For heavier shipments, apply more strips of tapes.
3. Repeat the so that both the box’s top and bottom seams are sealed

While you might employ different taping techniques for domestic shipping service throughout Japan, the H-taping method is considered the go-to standard for international shipping.

Unsealing packages during customs checks

An important thing to consider when shipping internationally is the possibility that your package may be subject to inspection by customs authorities in the destination country. These checks are a standard security measure and can sometimes involve opening and resealing your shipment. 

To help your items remain in good condition even if your package is opened for inspection, consider these packing tips:

• Use strong internal packaging: Opt for sturdy materials like custom-fit foam inserts, robust cardboard dividers, or ample bubble wrap to secure individual items within the box. This prevents movement and protects against potential rough handling during inspection.
• Wrap individual items: Encasing each item separately provides an extra layer of protection. If one item shifts or is handled during inspection, the others are less likely to be affected.
• Consider transparent inner layers: If appropriate for your items, using clear bags or wrapping can allow customs officials to view the contents without necessarily needing to unpack everything.
• Avoid overly complex outer sealing: While secure sealing is crucial for transit, extremely intricate taping patterns might be more difficult to replicate perfectly if the package is opened and resealed. The H-taping method is generally efficient and straightforward.
• Include a packing list: A detailed packing list attached to the outside and included inside the package helps customs officials understand the contents quickly, potentially reducing the need for extensive unpacking.
• Reinforce delicate items: For fragile goods, use extra cushioning and ensure they are positioned centrally within the package, away from the outer walls, to minimize the risk of damage if the box is opened and handled.

4. Labelling the shipment

Finally, affix any special handling labels onto your package so logistics staff can provide the necessary care. Make sure your waybill is easily visible on the top of the box, and ensure all old or duplicate labels are removed to prevent confusion during automated sorting. 

If your shipment requires accompanying documents like a commercial invoice, use a plastic pouch to attach them securely to the exterior. It's important to use internationally recognized handling labels and to ensure all crucial shipping information on the air waybill is clearly and accurately presented in English, in addition to any Japanese language labels you may include.

Common handling labels in international shipping

Keep Dry: This label indicates that the contents of the package must be protected from excessive moisture and should be stored in a covered environment throughout its journey.

Fragile/Handle with Care: This signifies that the package contains delicate items and requires careful handling to prevent breakage or damage during all stages of international delivery.

This Way Up: The upward-pointing arrows on this label clearly indicate the correct orientation in which the package must be kept, transported, and stored to protect its contents.

Quick tips for packing commonly shipped items from Japan

Glass products

Wrap each glass item individually with multiple layers of bubble wrap and use custom foam inserts or dividers to prevent contact and movement within a strong, rigid outer box. Ensure there are no empty spaces to avoid shifting during international shipping.

Processed food

For perishable items, use airtight, food-grade packaging and consider temperature-controlled solutions where necessary, always adhering to international food shipping regulations and clearly labeling contents and any temperature requirements. Vacuum sealing can extend shelf life, and packaging should be robust enough to withstand potential temperature fluctuations and transit delays during export from Japan.

Electronics

Utilize anti-static bags for electronic components and secure them within the packaging using custom-fit foam inserts to prevent damage from shocks and vibrations. Clearly label the package with handling instructions, such as "Fragile" or “This Way Up” if the product needs to be kept upright.

Export from Japan easily with DHL Express

By learning how to pack for international shipping, you can ensure that your goods arrive safely at their destination and ensure customer satisfaction.

For Japanese businesses aiming for global expansion, consider partnering with DHL Express to enjoy the benefits of professional handling and international express delivery services to complement your efforts in packaging for shipping. Open a business account today and start shipping immediately!