Damaged parcels are almost always a packaging problem, not a delivery problem. Whether it's electronics, ceramics, glassware or artwork, a little extra care before pickup makes the biggest difference in whether an item arrives in one piece.
1. Start with the right box
Reused boxes are fine as long as they're sturdy and not visibly worn at the seams. For anything fragile, leave at least 5–7cm of space on every side for cushioning material. A box that's too tight leaves no room to absorb shocks; a box that's too loose lets items shift and collide in transit.
2. Wrap each item individually
Never let fragile items touch each other directly inside a box. Wrap each piece separately in bubble wrap or packing paper, securing the wrap with tape rather than relying on it to hold its shape on its own.
3. Cushion every side, not just the bottom
Use crumpled packing paper, foam sheets or bubble wrap to fill empty space above, below and around the item. A well-packed box shouldn't rattle when you shake it gently.
4. Protect corners and edges first
Corners and edges take the most impact during handling. For picture frames, mirrors or electronics, add extra padding specifically at the corners before wrapping the rest of the item.
5. Double-box very fragile or high-value items
For items like glassware sets, ceramics or camera equipment, consider packing the wrapped item into a smaller box, then placing that box inside a larger one with cushioning in between. This "box-in-a-box" method absorbs shocks far better than a single layer of packaging.
6. Seal and label clearly
Use proper packing tape across all seams, not just the top, in an "H" pattern for extra strength. Mark the package "Fragile" and indicate which side should face up if it matters for the contents.
7. Tell us what's inside
When you book a pickup with Gramex, mention that the package is fragile and briefly describe the contents. Our team can flag it for careful handling and recommend the right service level for delicate shipments.
Good packaging protects your goods and your customer relationships. If you're shipping fragile items regularly, our team can also advise on cost-effective packaging supplies for your volume.