A parcel sent overseas is handled many times on its way: collected from your door, sorted at our hub in Singapore, then loaded, unloaded and delivered at the other end. Good packing is what keeps the contents safe through all of that. It does not take special equipment, just a little care.
Start with the right box
Use a sturdy box in good condition, with no tears, soft corners or crushed sides. Choose one that fits the contents with a little room for padding. A box that is far too big leaves space for things to shift, and one that is too tight puts strain on the seams.
If you are reusing a box, remove the old labels or cover them completely. Old addresses and barcodes can confuse sorting.
Fill the space and protect fragile items
Nothing inside should move when you gently shake the closed box. Fill any empty space with crumpled paper, bubble wrap or other padding.
- Wrap each fragile item on its own, so items cannot knock against each other.
- Put a layer of padding on the bottom before the first item, and on top before you close the box.
- Place heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top.
- Keep small items together in a bag or a smaller box so they do not get lost in the padding.
Seal it and add the label
Seal every seam with strong packing tape, not only the middle join on the top. Tape the bottom the same way, because that is where the weight sits.
Once you have paid and the SingPost collection is booked, a Download label button appears on your order page. Print the label and stick it flat on the largest side of the box, where it will not be folded over an edge. Keep the barcode clear and easy to read.
Weigh and measure after packing
Weigh the parcel when it is fully packed and sealed, and measure it if you can. The price depends on weight, and for some services on size as well, so the box and padding count too. Entering the packed weight and size when you book gives you a price that matches the parcel the courier actually collects.
What never goes in the box
Some things cannot be sent, however well they are packed:
- flammable or explosive items, such as lighter fluid, fireworks and aerosols with flammable gas
- weapons
- illegal drugs
- cash
- perishable food
- live animals
Lithium batteries are heavily restricted by airlines, so check before sending anything with a battery, including gadgets with one built in. Some destinations restrict more, for example food, medicines or cosmetics. If you are unsure about an item, contact us before booking.
Pack it firmly, label it clearly and declare it honestly, and your parcel has the best chance of arriving just as you sent it.