When it comes to shipping parcels in the UK, there’s one universal truth: couriers are not gentle. Whether it’s a glass vase or your nan’s famous homemade jam, if it’s not packed like a rhino on a mission, it’s at risk of arriving worse for wear. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered!
At RhinoPack, we believe good packaging isn’t just about looking the part; it’s about being strong, reliable, and tough enough to handle the chaos of transit.
And let’s face it, if your parcel does take a beating, filing claims can feel like herding cats. (Looking at you, courier peeps!) But knowing your options can save the day.
Check out helpful advice from the following:
Why Packaging Matters: Reducing the Risk of Courier Damage
The quality of the packaging you use can significantly impact whether your items survive the journey. Courier damage is often caused by insufficient protection in transit, such as flimsy boxes or poorly packed items. The solution is to choose high-quality, durable packaging that will hold up under the stress of delivery.
One of the most important aspects of how to protect parcels from courier damage in the UK is choosing the right material and box type.
Corrugated cardboard boxes are widely considered one of the most reliable and affordable solutions.
At RhinoPack, we offer a range of cardboard packaging options, from single-wall boxes to reinforced double-wall and our pioneer product 'RhinoBoard' honeycomb being the superior choice for those in need of extra reinforcement.
If you’ve already experienced issues with couriers damaging parcels, it’s worth checking out
Royal Mail’s guidelines on what to do if mail arrives damaged
For other courier services, like Evri
DHL
they also provide specific steps to resolve damage claims. Parcel2Go https://www.parcel2go.com/help-centre/parcels/question/collection/what-should-i-do-if-i-need-to-add-special-instructions-to-my-order#
Choosing the Right Box: Single Wall, Double Wall, and RhinoBoard
Selecting the proper box for your parcel is crucial for ensuring it against courier damage in the UK and internationally.
Different types of corrugated cardboard are suitable for different types of items. Here's a breakdown of the options available and their uses:
Single-Wall Boxes: These boxes are the most common choice for lightweight and less fragile items. A single layer of corrugated cardboard provides a moderate level of parcel protection against courier damage in transit and is ideal for shipping non-fragile goods. Single-wall boxes are often cost-effective and suitable for general shipments.
Double-Wall Boxes: For heavier or more fragile items, double-wall boxes provide a higher level of protection against courier damages. They feature two layers of corrugated cardboard, which increases their strength and durability, making them ideal for shipping larger, more delicate items. Double-wall boxes can handle more weight and impact, offering a superior shield against courier mishandling.
Our Double Wall Boxes are engineered with a special flute treatment that solidifies the structure as it dries, making them significantly stronger than standard double-wall boxes on the market.
RhinoBoard Honeycomb Cardboard Panels: If you’re looking for the ultimate in protection, RhinoBoard should be your go-to. This honeycomb cardboard is incredibly strong and provides a high degree of shock absorption against courier parcel damage. RhinoBoard is often used in custom packaging solutions for high-value items such as industrial electronics, large glass art, and framed artwork. Even when added to single-wall or double-wall boxes, RhinoBoard further reinforces the packaging, ensuring your items remain safe during even the roughest of courier transit conditions.
Available in thicknesses from 8mm to 90mm and grades from Extra Light Duty to Extra Heavy Duty sheets, these durable honeycomb boards combine strength, flexibility, and sustainability. A perfect solution to protecting your parcels against courier damage.
To get the right cardboard box for your requirements please drop us a message or give us a call here https://www.rhinopack.co.uk/contact-us
Or if you would like to read more about our RhinoBoard Extra Strong Honeycomb sheets please take a look at this article - https://www.rhinopack.co.uk/post/where-to-buy-honeycomb-cardboard-sheets-consider-our-rhinoboard
The Importance of Choosing Quality Packaging: Expert Insights
Industry experts agree that using quality packaging is one of the most effective ways to prevent courier damage.
The UK government’s Packaging Waste Regulations https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/packaging-waste highlight the importance of using sustainable, high-quality packaging materials to minimize environmental impact and reduce the likelihood of damage during shipping.
Additionally, companies like ParcelHero https://www.parcelhero.com provide insights into packaging best practices, suggesting that using double-wall boxes or reinforced cardboard significantly reduces the chances of damage during transit.
For handling claims related to courier damage, Yodel https://www.yodel.co.uk/help-centre/damaged-or-missing-parcels and Parcelforce https://www.parcelforce.com/help-and-advice/tracking/what-does-tracking-description-mean/recorded-delivery-parcel-damaged offer guidance on how to file claims and resolve issues efficiently.
By following these expert recommendations and investing in high-quality packaging, you can ensure your parcels are well-protected against the inevitable bumps and drops during their journey. It's a sure fire way to protect your parcel against courier damage in the UK and internationally too.
Specialty Packaging for Fragile and Valuable Items
If you're shipping delicate or high-value items, such as glass bottles, mugs, or large framed art, it’s important to choose specialized packaging that offers enhanced protection. RhinoPack offers tailored solutions for fragile goods:
Extra-Strong Glass Bottle Packaging: Because shipping bottles without proper protection is a recipe for disaster. Our Extra Strong Glass Bottle Packaging ensures bottles are cushioned and protected during shipping.
Cup and Mug Boxes: Whether it’s a sentimental mug or your favourite coffee cup, our Cup and Mug Boxes ensure they arrive intact (and ready for tea).
Artwork Boxes: Protect those masterpieces like the treasures they are. Our Artwork Boxes prevent bends, creases, and courier catastrophes.
Large Picture Frame Boxes: Secure, snug, and sturdy—because picture frames deserve better than bubble wrap alone.
All of these solutions feature RhinoBoard reinforcement, ensuring that even your most delicate items stay safe and protected during courier transit in and out of the UK.
Practical Tips for Parcel Protection
Alongside using high-quality packaging materials, adopting the following strategies will maximize your parcel’s safety:
Choose the Right Size: A box that's too oversized can lead to items shifting during transit, while a box that’s too small may not provide adequate cushioning. Ensure the dimensions of your box are a perfect fit for the items being shipped or allow some space for cushioning, especially if it's a fragile item.
See our FAQ for a quick guide on how to measure your box to best protect your parcels in transit -
Use Internal and External Padding: Bubble wrap, packing peanuts, our Eco RhinoTwists or even air cushions can absorb shocks and prevent items from moving inside the box. For extra protection, consider adding a layer of Strong Cardboard Edge Protectors to reinforce the corners and edges of your package.
Contact Us to Enquire About Our 'RhinoTwists' Click here to read our post on eco friendly bubble wrap alternatives
Reinforce with RhinoBoard: For especially fragile or valuable shipments, adding a layer of RhinoBoard honeycomb sheeting can prevent crushing and provide additional stability. These sheets are your parcel’s best friend when it comes to absorbing impact and maintaining structural integrity.
Seal Securely: Use high-quality packing tape to seal all seams and edges of the box. For heavier parcels, consider reinforcing the tape with extra layers to ensure the box stays closed during transit.
Label Clearly: Use large, legible labels for both addresses and handling instructions. Make sure the "Fragile" or "This Side Up" labels are visible on the outside of your box.
Commonly Asked Questions
What is the difference between single-wall, double-wall, and triple-wall cardboard?
The main difference lies in the number of layers of corrugated cardboard. Single-wall boxes are suitable for lightweight items, while double-wall boxes provide added protection for heavier, more delicate products. Triple-wall boxes offer the highest level of protection, typically used for industrial purposes or high-risk shipping items.
How do I choose the best box for my packaging needs?
Choosing the right box depends on the weight and fragility of your items. Single-wall boxes are perfect for light, non-fragile items, while double-wall boxes offer extra protection for heavier, more delicate items. If you’re shipping fragile or high-value goods, we recommend RhinoBoard-reinforced boxes.
For more details, visit our FAQ page.
The Last Word on Parcel Protection
According to a report by ratings provider StellaService, approximately 1 in 10 eCommerce packages arrives damaged. Among the major carriers, UPS has the highest damage rate at 11%, followed by USPS at 10%, and FedEx at 7%.
These statistics highlight the vulnerability of packages during transit, especially for businesses relying on shipping for their sales.
As a retailer, while you may not be able to control how carriers handle packages once they leave your warehouse, you can still take proactive steps to ensure your products remain intact. By investing in high-quality packaging materials such as reinforced boxes and cushioning, you can help mitigate the risk of damage.
Shipping isn’t for the faint of heart, but with RhinoPack on your side, your parcels are in safe hands. From sturdy single-wall boxes to RhinoBoard’s rhino-inspired toughness, we’ve got everything you need to protect your goods.
So, whether you’re shipping glass bottles, antiques, or that weirdly-shaped lamp, pack it like a pro with RhinoPack. Your parcel (and your recipient) will thank you!
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Take the Next Step: Partner with RhinoPack for all of Your Packaging Needs
Don’t hesitate to contact us through email or phone, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
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