General packing best practices
Packing boxes carefully reduces the chance of delays and damage in transit.
Packed boxes should be easy to lift, with weight distributed evenly so corners and seams are not stressed.
- Keep each package at 45 lbs or less where possible.
- Separate fragile items from each other and from the corners, sides, top, and bottom of the box.
Recommended internal protection materials
- Bubble wrap
- Packing peanuts
- Inflatable packaging
- Foam enclosures
Not recommended as primary padding
- Clothing
- Blankets
- Towels
- Newspaper or newsprint
- Pillows
Avoid placing valuables or perishables in shipped boxes, such as:
- Cash or jewelry
- Liquids or food
- Candles
- Toiletries
Sealing and preparing standard boxes
A securely sealed box is less likely to open, tear, or snag during handling.
- Close all flaps so edges meet cleanly.
- Apply three strips of packing tape across the top seam.
- Apply three strips of packing tape across the bottom seam.
- Make sure all three edge seams on both top and bottom are tightly sealed.
Carrier-approved shipping tape is recommended instead of office tape or masking tape.
More detailed carton and padding guidance can be found in standard UPS packaging guidelines.
Special items: luggage, instruments, and skis
Luggage / suitcases
- Use the actual luggage dimensions and weight when creating shipping labels; carriers may charge overage fees if listed dimensions are smaller than the physical item.
- Zip-tie zippers so bags cannot pop open during transit.
- Expect an extra carrier fee when luggage is shipped.
Musical instruments
- Pack instruments in hard instrument cases.
- Zip-tie clasps and zippers so the case remains securely closed during handling.
Skis
- Pack skis in a box before movers arrive.
- Some skis may be too long for standard UPS guidelines, so size should be checked in advance.