Packing fragile items for small move freight carriers, as well as for UPS, FedEx, and DHL, is different from packing for moving companies. Moving companies typically pick up household items at one location and drive them to the destination without any unloading or reloading along the way. The recommended packing for moving fragile items is well documented by various moving companies like United Van Lines and Two Men And A Truck. This method incorporates sturdy corrugated boxes, packing tape, and lots of packing paper. Items are individually wrapped in the paper and cushioned tightly in the box with additional wadded up paper.
Standards for packing fragile items for small move shipping are set by the carriers and by declared value insurance companies. The shipped boxes are loaded and unloaded multiple times and may be stacked at the carrier facilities.
The packaging standards include a minimum of two inches of cushioning – bubble wrap and packing peanuts or Styrofoam, not paper – around all of the fragile item’s dimensions. For example, a fragile glass bowl measuring 8”x 8”x8” would require, at a minimum, a 12”x12”x12” box. If the item is valued under $200 and is easily replaced, that box with appropriate cushioning is sufficient. If the item is valued over $200 or is one of a kind and/or sentimental and not replaceable, it would be double-boxed in a 12”x12”x12” inner box and a 16”x16”x16” outer box, each with two inches of appropriate cushioning.
In the unlikely event of a damage claim with a shipping carrier, the outer box is examined for visible damage. If there is no damage to the outside of the box, the carrier representatives will examine the inner packaging to ensure standards have been met.
Pak Mail packs all small move fragile items securely for safe delivery.