How to Ship Fragile Items Safely

The Golden Rule: The Drop Test

Package your item so it could survive being dropped from waist height (about 1 metre) onto a hard floor. That is roughly what happens during sorting. If your packaging would not pass this test, add more cushioning before you ship.

How to Package Glass and Ceramics

1. Wrap individually — wrap each piece in at least two layers of bubble wrap. Secure with tape. For mugs and bowls, stuff the inside with scrunched paper first
2. Use dividers — if sending multiple glass items, use cardboard dividers between each one. Wine bottle shippers have built-in cells and work brilliantly
3. Line the box — place a 5cm layer of cushioning at the bottom of the box before placing items
4. Fill all gaps — the item should not move at all when you shake the box. Use packing peanuts or scrunched newspaper
5. Top layer — add another 5cm of cushioning on top before sealing
6. Double box — for very valuable or very fragile items, place the inner box inside a larger box with cushioning between them

How to Package Electronics

Electronics face two risks: physical impact and static electricity.

• Anti-static bags — wrap circuit boards, GPUs, and components in anti-static bags (the pink or silver ones). Regular bubble wrap generates static and can kill electronic components
• Original packaging — if you have it, use it. Manufacturers spend thousands designing packaging to protect their products. Couriers also prefer original packaging for insurance claims
• Hard drives and SSDs — wrap in anti-static material, then bubble wrap, then place in a snug box. External shock can destroy data
• Monitors and TVs — use a box designed for the screen size. Fill with foam corners. Place screen-side down for maximum protection. Mark "THIS WAY UP" on all sides

How to Package Artwork and Prints

• Framed artwork — tape an X of masking tape across the glass (if it breaks, the tape holds the shards). Wrap corners with foam protectors. Place in a picture box with cardboard sheets either side
• Unframed prints — roll in acid-free tissue paper, place inside a cardboard tube. Use plastic end caps to seal the tube
• Canvas paintings — never roll a stretched canvas. Wrap in glassine paper, then bubble wrap. Place between two pieces of rigid cardboard cut to size

Labelling Fragile Parcels

Mark your parcel as "FRAGILE" on at least three sides using a red marker or fragile stickers. Also mark "THIS WAY UP" with arrows. Be honest though — couriers report that around 30% of parcels are marked fragile, so the label alone is not enough. Your packaging must do the real work.

Best Couriers for Fragile Items

For genuinely fragile items, avoid budget couriers. The price difference between Evri and DPD for a 2kg parcel is often just £3-5, but DPD handles parcels through far fewer sorting points.

What to Do if a Fragile Item Arrives Damaged

1. Photograph everything — the outer box, the inner packaging, and the damage. Do this before removing the item fully
2. Keep all packaging — the courier may ask to inspect it. If you throw it away, your claim may be rejected
3. Report within 24 hours — most couriers require damage to be reported within 24-48 hours of delivery
4. File a claim — see our insurance guide for the claims process and timelines

Common Mistakes

• Using a box that is too large without enough filling — the item bounces around
• Wrapping glass in newspaper only — newspaper compresses under weight and offers little protection
• Placing fragile items against the box wall with no cushioning between them
• Not testing the packaging by giving it a firm shake before sealing
• Choosing the cheapest courier for a valuable fragile item

Compare Courier Prices

Once your fragile item is properly packaged, use our price comparison tool to find the best courier. Filter by compensation level to make sure your item is covered.