When shipping fragile items, the packaging you choose can make the difference between your product arriving safely or damaged. Using the right cardboard boxes, combined with effective protective packaging, ensures your goods reach customers intact.
Whether you’re sending electronics, glassware, or delicate gifts, choosing the correct packaging is essential for both cost-efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Why Box Choice Matters
Fragile items should always be packed securely with cushioning and a sturdy outer box. Packaging must be able to withstand handling, stacking, and transportation stresses.
Flimsy boxes may collapse.
Oversized boxes allow items to shift and break.
The right size and strength help reduce returns and protect your reputation.
1. Use Heavy Duty Cardboard Boxes for Fragile Goods
For delicate or high-value shipments, single-wall cartons are rarely strong enough. Heavy duty cardboard boxes, typically double or triple-walled, provide superior crush resistance and durability. These are ideal for:
Glass bottles
Ceramics
Electronics
Bulkier fragile goods
2. Understand Box Strength and Design
TEC Packaging specialises in corrugated packaging including single and double wall cardboard boxes, suitable for varying fragility levels.
Double wall or triple wall boxes provide added cushioning against drops and pressure.
Consider Weight Limits and Load-Bearing Capacity. Every cardboard box has a maximum load it can safely carry. Exceeding this can cause crushing or bursting during handling and transit.
3. Use Made-to-Measure Boxes to Minimise Movement
Shipping fragile items in oversized boxes increases the risk of damage. Right-sizing your packaging:
Prevents movement inside the box
Reduces excess filler material
Enhances the unboxing experience for customers
TEC Packaging offers bespoke box manufacturing to help businesses find the perfect fit.
4. Add Internal Protective Packaging
Even the strongest box needs internal support. Fragile items should be individually wrapped and cushioned. Popular protective packaging options include:
Bubble wrap for delicate surfaces
Air cushions or paper void fill to prevent movement
Foam inserts or corrugated dividers for glassware and electronics
These materials absorb shocks and prevent items from rattling.
5. Choose Postal Boxes for Smaller Items
Not every fragile product needs a large box. Compact postal boxes are ideal for items such as jewellery, cosmetics, or accessories. Benefits include:
Lightweight design to cut postage costs
Often letterbox-friendly
Reliable protection for small, delicate goods
6. Seal and Label Correctly
You should seal boxes with strong tape across all edges and flaps. Best practices include:
Reinforcing corners and seams
Using “Fragile” labels where required
Ensuring shipping labels are clear and unobstructed
Avoiding overpacking, which can burst seams
7. Quality, Sustainability, and UK Manufacturing
TEC Packaging’s boxes are manufactured in the UK with strict quality control and fast lead times. This means:
Reliable supply for businesses shipping fragile goods
Consistency in strength and finish
Sustainable solutions include boxes that are recyclable and biodegradable, supporting eco-friendly values
Choosing the right packaging is essential for protecting fragile goods in transit. From heavy duty cardboard boxes for larger, delicate items to compact postal boxes for smaller shipments, pairing the right outer box with effective protective packaging ensures safe delivery every time.
At TEC Packaging, we provide high-quality cardboard boxes, protective materials, and custom solutions designed to protect your shipments and enhance customer satisfaction.
Explore our full range today and ship with confidence.