Shipment preparation: A guide to packaging materials

Selecting the right packaging materials isn't just an afterthought; it's a critical element of an e-commerce strategy. For businesses in Myanmar experiencing exponential market growth and promising trends in e-commerce, it can mean the difference between a product arriving in pristine condition or being damaged during and after shipping. The importance of suitable packaging supplies becomes even more evident in specific shipping scenarios, such as insulated cold packaging for shipping perishable goods or when you need to pack large, fragile items for shipping. Incorrect or substandard packaging can lead to spoilage, breakage, and dissatisfied customers. This guide aims to help you learn how to navigate the various options for shipping packaging supplies, ensuring that your items reach their destination in the best possible condition.

Types of packaging materials for shipping

Understanding the various types of packaging materials is the cornerstone to effectively shipping your goods. The right combination of external, filling, and internal materials ensures your items' safe transit and arrival, optimising customer satisfaction and minimising costs.

External materials

Selecting a suitable external material is critical, especially when packaging large or fragile items. Choose a box that can fit the items you want to ship, preferably with at least 6 cm excess space. If you are still looking for an external packaging material for your shipment, logistics companies such as DHL Express offer a variety of box sizes you can choose from. 

These are some of the standard external packaging materials used in shipping:

1. Cardboard boxes: As a staple in the shipping packaging supplies world, cardboard boxes are both versatile and cost-effective. They come in various sizes and sturdiness, ideal for shipping a wide range of products. Whether shipping domestically within Myanmar or navigating the complexities of overseas shipping, cardboard boxes are a go-to solution.
2. Poly mailers: For shipping clothing, small accessories, and other lighter, less fragile items, poly mailers offer an excellent alternative. These packaging materials are lighter than cardboard boxes, helping reduce shipping costs, mainly when weight is critical.
3. Custom shipping packaging: Standing out is vital in today's competitive market. Custom shipping packaging enhances brand recognition by incorporating your company's logo, colours, or other branding elements. This option can be particularly impactful for businesses looking to make a lasting impression.

Internal materials

Aside from sturdy external packaging, internal materials add an extra layer of security, which is especially vital for shipping large or fragile items. These packaging materials are a cushioning barrier, minimising movement and reducing the risk of damage during transit. Common internal materials to consider incorporating into your shipping strategy include:

1. Bubble wrap: When packing materials for shipping delicate or fragile items, bubble wrap is the gold standard. It offers excellent protection against impact and cushioning against possible mishandling during transport.
2. Tissue paper: For wrapping fragile items, tissue paper provides additional protection. It's commonly used in the apparel sector or for packaging large, fragile items like glassware or ceramics.
3. Foam inserts: Foam inserts offer custom-fit protection for items that need a snug fit, such as electronics or intricate machinery. This packaging material minimises movement during shipping, reducing the risk of damage.

Filling materials

Filling materials secure your items during transit while influencing shipping expenses. This protective layer prevents unwanted movement within the package, reducing the risk of damage. After positioning your item on top of the internal protective material inside the box, use filling materials to fill any remaining voids. Continue adding these materials until no empty spaces are left, ensuring a snug fit that enhances the safety of your shipped items.

Here's a closer look at some standard options and their uses:

1. Packing peanuts: Packing peanuts serve well to fill empty spaces in boxes but are generally less suited for heavy or fragile items requiring more stable support. They are light and cost-effective but consider using biodegradable versions to minimise environmental impact.
2. Inflatable air pillows: For businesses concerned with the environmental footprint and shipping costs, inflatable air pillows offer a lightweight and reusable option. They are ideal packaging materials that fill voids in boxes, ensuring that items remain stable during shipping.
3. Cold packaging for shipping: The insulated shipping market is growing, especially for businesses dealing with perishable goods. Cold shipping packaging involves using filling materials like foam insulators and gel packs to maintain temperature-sensitive items at the right temperature throughout their shipping journey.

Factors in choosing the right packaging supplies

Making informed decisions about your packaging materials for shipping is not a one-size-fits-all task. Multiple factors should guide your choice, from the characteristics of the items you're shipping to cost considerations and environmental impact. Here's a more detailed look at these key areas:

Item size and shape

Your product's physical dimensions and characteristics play a crucial role in determining the best packaging materials. For example, small items might be well-suited for poly mailers, while larger, more robust items often require the structural integrity of cardboard boxes. Fragile items would benefit from packaging materials with cushioning, such as bubble wrap or foam inserts. If you're dealing with oddly shaped goods, custom shipping packaging may be the way to ensure a snug fit and safe transport.

Shipping costs

Another major factor to consider is the cost of shipping. Different packaging materials have different weights and sizes, which can substantially influence shipping costs, particularly overseas shipping. Lightweight packaging materials like inflatable air pillows are often preferable to heavier options, such as packing peanuts, when weight is a primary cost consideration. Also, understanding how to pack large, fragile items for shipping efficiently can save you considerably on shipping fees.

Environmental impact

One of the emerging trends in Myanmar is sustainability. Today's consumers are increasingly eco-conscious, and this trend extends to their preferences for shipping packaging. Opting for eco-friendly, recyclable, or biodegradable packaging materials can help your business reach its sustainable goals and appeal to a broader audience. For example, if you typically use packing peanuts, consider switching to biodegradable versions made from organic materials. This minor change can significantly affect how your brand is perceived in terms of its environmental responsibility.

Steps to properly packaging your products

Proper packaging is essential for the safe and efficient delivery of your parcels, especially for overseas shipping or specialised products. This section provides detailed, step-by-step guides for packaging different types of items – small, large, fragile, and oddly shaped. These instructions are designed to help you package your products correctly for secure and cost-effective shipping.

1. Evaluate the nature of your shipment

• Identify weight and shape: Knowing the weight and dimensions of your item will guide you in selecting the appropriate box, container, and other suitable packaging materials for shipping.
• Choose the correct box: Ensure that the box you pick is sturdy enough for your item. It should neither be too large nor too small but should comfortably accommodate the item and filling materials.
• Special considerations for odd-sized and fragile items: If you're shipping something odd-shaped or particularly delicate, consider custom shipping packaging as an option. However, you can use a standard corrugated box if you're looking for a more cost-efficient packaging supplies option. Fill the empty spaces with filling materials to ensure your item is well-protected while in transit.

2. Choose appropriate packaging supplies

• Packing large items: Heavy-duty cardboard boxes are often best for bigger items. Reinforce the box with strong adhesive tape.
• Fragile and valuable items: Use bubble wrap or foam inserts for extra protection. These materials minimise movement and help prevent breakage.
• Odd-shaped items: Custom shipping packaging or flexible poly mailers are effective for unusually shaped items. Make sure to fill voids with inflatable air pillows or packing peanuts.

3. Ensure a secure seal on your package

• The H-taping technique: This technique involves applying tape in the shape of an 'H' on the box. It secures the box flaps and prevents them from opening during shipping, adding an extra layer of security.
• Optimal sealing: A well-sealed package minimises the risk of content damage or loss. However, avoid using excessive tape, making packages challenging to open when customs need to inspect your parcels. It can also potentially ruin the unboxing experience for your customers due to the excess seals.

4. Label your shipment accurately

• Essential labels: Incorporate necessary documents like air waybills and crucial handling labels to guide the shipping process. Utilise specific handling stickers like "Fragile," "Handle with Care," "Keep Dry," or "This Side Up" to set clear expectations for package handling. These labels are pivotal in ensuring accurate, efficient, and safe transit of your goods.
• Labelling best practices: For optimum visibility and scanning, place labels on a flat, unobstructed surface of the package, ensuring no overlap occurs. Labels should be crisp, legible, and devoid of smudges or tears. Refrain from using duplicate labels, leading to complications like incorrect scanning or delivery errors. A well-labelled package is your safeguard against logistical mishaps.

Partnering with a reliable logistics company

Choosing suitable packaging materials for shipping is essential, but it's only part of the equation for successful delivery. Equally important is selecting a reliable logistics partner well-versed in handling different types of parcels. DHL Express specialises in packaging items for shipping, providing more than just a transit service. We act as a committed partner that adds value to your business by ensuring that products are well-packaged and safely and efficiently transported. Our expertise is vital for overseas shipping, where packaging and transport demands are heightened. With DHL Express, you're sending more than just a package; you're delivering a promise of quality and reliability. 

Open a DHL Express business account.