Imagine if your customers receive damaged goods upon they unpack their packages. 

NO! I paid for a BROKEN item?!

Fragile item shipping is crucial if your eCommerce business is selling breakable items. The inevitable bumps or accidental drops may happen regardless of the freight forward carriers. 

With decades of shipping experience, we guide you on shipping your fragile products. You get PROFESSIONAL services for your fragile item shipping to REDUCE LOSSES. Let’s take a depth-in look at the following: 

• What are fragile items?
• Why do you need to carefully handle fragile items?
• What are the best ways to package fragile items?
• How to Ship Fragile Items: A Step-by-Step Guide

Grab your coffee, and let’s get started. 

What are fragile items?

“Cautious!” “FRAGILE!”

Have you come across shipping packages labeled above?

If you unbox the package, you know what fragile items are included. Fragile items are breakable items that are easily damaged, broken, or destroyed.

What are the categories of fragile items? Well, they include: 

• Glassware
• Ceramics
• Electronic devices
• Antiques
• Artwork
• Musical instruments

And other delicate items. 

Because of their delicate NATURE, shipping fragile items requires special handling and packaging. With it, they can reach their destination in GOOD condition.

Therefore, these items need extra love and care to ensure they are not broken or damaged.

Why do you need to carefully handle fragile items?

Fragile items need to be handled with care. Why are they so SPECIAL? 

Let’s take a deep look. 

They are prone to breaking.

Fragile items can break, crack, or get damaged EASILY. They are usually delicate and made of less strong or durable materials. For instance, glass, ceramic, or porcelain. 

Besides, fragile products are susceptible to damage from:
– minor impacts
– vibrations
– temperature changes.

Mishandling fragile items during packing, handling, and transportation can lead to several problems. For example, scratches, cracks, dents, and even complete destruction.

Hmm… seems more complex than taking care of a baby. Whoops. 

You have to bear the loss.

Mishandling fragile items can result in financial loss. It is especially if the thing is VALUABLE or RARE, like musical instruments or plants. If the item has sentimental value, it may also cause emotional distress.

Moreover, some breakable products may not be replaceable. It makes their protection even more critical. 

What are the best ways to package fragile items?

Proper packaging is essential to protect fragile items during shipping. Here are some of the best ways to package before shipping fragile items:

• Use cushioning materials.
  Cushioning materials like bubble wrap or packing peanuts absorb shock and prevent damage. Use ENOUGH cushioning to fill empty spaces inside the box to prevent the item from moving around.
• Wrap the item.
  Wrap it in bubble wrap or foam to protect it from scratches, dents, or breaks. Make sure to wrap it TIGHTLY, so it does not move around inside the box.
• Choose the correct box.
  Use a STURDY box that is appropriate in size for the item you are shipping. The package should be bigger than the item so that you can add cushioning around it.
• Label the box.
  Label the shipping box with a “FRAGILE” sticker, so the carrier knows how to handle it. You can also include handling instructions such as “this side up” or “do not stack” to prevent damage.
• Use tape.
  Use high-quality packing tape to SEAL the box securely. Reinforce the corners and edges of the box with extra tape.
• Double box.
  For additional protection, consider double-boxing the item. Put the wrapped item inside a smaller box and then place that box inside a larger one with extra cushioning. 

How to ship fragile items: step-by-step guide?

Proper preparation and precautions with shipping experts are crucial. You ensure your valuables arrive at your customers in one piece. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare fragile items for shipping:

1. Choose the exemplary courier service that specializes in shipping fragile items.
2. Use proper packaging materials. Fill empty spaces with cushioning material like foam peanut or crumpled newspaper. Using the right box of the correct size will also restrict product movement in transit.
3. Label the package as “fragile” and include handling instructions. Clearly label your box to alert handlers to take it with care. You may also want “This Side Up” or “Handle with Care” labels.
4. Choose the appropriate shipping method, such as overnight or expedited shipping.
5. Insure the package for its full value to protect against damage or loss. Reinforce the corners and seams with extra tape. It prevents the box from opening during transit.
6. Track the package to ensure it arrives on time and in good condition.

With these steps, you are CONFIDENT that your fragile pieces will arrive safely. Happy shipping!

Best couriers for shipping fragile items

When shipping a fragile package, you must ensure your precious cargo arrives in one piece. So, which couriers are the best for the job? Let me hoist the sails and guide you through the stormy seas of shipping options.

FedEx

They offer various packaging options, including custom-designed or the right-sized box. Plus, their tracking system is top-notch. Thus, you can KEEP AN EYE on your package every step of the way.

UPS Store

They also have various packaging options for extra protection. For example, foam inserts and double-walled boxes. Moreover, they offer insurance options to cover any damages in transit.

USPS

They may have fewer packaging options. But, they offer fragile stickers alert handlers to be extra careful with your boxes. Plus, their Priority Mail service comes with automatic insurance. The coverage is up to $100, which is great for peace of mind.

So there you have it! 

Tips for shipping fragile items

We’ve got you covered with expert tips. You can confidently ship your delicate valuables with the tips below!

Use The Right Packaging Materials

First and foremost, make sure you have suitable packaging materials. This includes STURDY boxes, bubble wrap, crumpled paper, and packing tape. You can even consider double boxing or outer packaging for more protection.

Use Layers of Cushioning

When packing your item, make sure to use multiple layers of cushioning. Wrap it in bubble wrap, surround it with packing peanuts, and make sure there’s no WIGGLE room inside the box. You don’t want your item bouncing around like a beach ball in a hurricane!

Label Your Fragile Products

Next, mark your fragile product as FRAGILE. It will alert handlers to give special handling with your item shipped. You can even write “Fragile – Handle with Care” in big, bold letters on multiple sides of the box.

Choose Specialized Fragile Item Carrier

Finally, choose a courier that SPECIALIZES in shipping fragile items. Make sure to select major carriers with tracking and insurance. You can MONITOR your package and have peace of mind knowing it’s covered in any mishaps.

With these tips, you ship breakable products like a PRO. Bon voyage!

FAQs about Fragile Item Shipping

What’s Next

In short, to ship fragile pieces, ensure your items are properly packaged. It allows a safe shipment to their final destination. Handling fragile items carefully prevents scratches, dents, or any other damage.

MORE happy customers, MORE sales! 

Ready to ship your fragile products? LeelineSourcing has ten years of experience in shipping fragile goods. Contact us today to get your personalized shipping solutions from our experts!