How to properly prepare a package for the courier?

At first glance, it seems simple: put the items in a box, tape it up, send it, and you’re done. But in practice, this is the stage where mistakes most often occur, leading to delays, damage to the contents, or sometimes even rejection of the shipment by the courier. A box that’s too big, inappropriate packing material, no filler, or a poorly attached label – all this can cause your package, instead of arriving in a few days, to get stuck somewhere along the way.

To avoid such situations, it’s worth taking a moment to pack your shipment properly. See how to prepare a package for the courier!

Why is proper packing so important?

Imagine a courier sorting facility during the holiday season. Hundreds of packages pass through conveyor belts every day, are stacked, and loaded into cars and containers. In such conditions, no one will stop the process just to pay special attention to your package. Whether it arrives intact depends mainly on how it was packed.

It’s not only about the safety of the contents. An improperly packed package may be considered non-standard, which means additional charges or even refusal of acceptance. In the case of international shipping (for example, a package to Ukraine), lack of a proper content declaration often results in it being held at the border. Proper preparation guarantees that delivery will be smooth and without unpleasant surprises.

How to choose the right packaging?

The first decision when packing a package is choosing the box. It should match the size and weight of the items you plan to send. A box that’s too small can tear under the weight of the contents. One that’s too large will require excessive filler and will crush more easily.

The best choice will be sturdy flap boxes made of thick corrugated cardboard. Use new boxes or ones in very good condition – without dents or wear. Avoid sending items in plastic bags, cloth sacks, garbage bags, or boxes from appliances – couriers often refuse to accept such packages.

How to secure the contents of the package?

Proper securing of a package is not just about the box – it’s also about making sure items don’t shift inside or rub against each other. How to pack a shipment?

• Fragile items – such as ceramics, glass, or electronics – should be wrapped individually, preferably in bubble wrap.

• Place cardboard or foam dividers between them.

• Small items are best placed in separate bags or boxes.

If you hear items shifting inside after packing, it means the contents are not properly stabilized and need adjustment. As filler, you can use bubble wrap, crumpled packing paper, or biodegradable peanuts. A well-packed parcel makes no sound when gently shaken.

To close the package, use wide packing tape and seal the box securely. Avoid string, which can damage the box or interfere with automatic sorting.

What to do before handing the package to the courier?

For a standard shipment with a label – don’t forget to print it and place it in a visible spot on a flat surface of the box. Don’t put it over folds and don’t tape over the barcode.

If you choose Meest Post shipping, you can also send without a printed label – for example, through a locker or partner point. In this case, the shipping label is printed on the spot, saving you time and effort.

Before giving the package to the courier, double-check the recipient’s details: full name, address, phone number, postal code, and country (for international shipments). Mistakes here are unfortunately a common cause of returns.

Additional tips before shipping a package

• Don’t place prohibited items in the package. Most carriers forbid sending cash, identity documents, alcohol, or flammable substances. Meest Post provides a full list of prohibited items on its website: meestpost.com/pl/pl/prohibited-goods.

• Measure and weigh the package carefully. Most courier companies have weight (e.g., 30 kg) and size limits. Exceeding them can mean extra fees or rejection of the shipment.

• Prepare a clear content declaration – this is especially important if you’re sending a package abroad from Poland. Meest Post offers a simple online form that doesn’t require printing or visiting a point.

Sending with Meest Post? It’s even easier

Meest Post has specialized for years in handling shipments from Poland and the EU to Ukraine, as well as to the USA, the UK, and Canada. It offers flexible shipping options:

• from home (the courier collects the package at your door),

• from a partner point,

• from a parcel locker – also without needing to print a label.

For those who value convenience and support, Meest Post also offers the option of registering a package by phone – just a 15-minute call with a consultant. You also have access to a multilingual hotline available 7 days a week.

What’s more, with Meest Post you can insure your package, track it online, and even benefit from the loyalty program. Do you want to be sure your package arrives safely and on time? Take care to pack it properly! A well-packed shipment is the first step to hassle-free delivery – the rest will be handled by Meest Post.