7 Tips for Safe and Efficient Packing Before Deliver

Whether you’re sending a small parcel or coordinating a large-scale delivery of industrial goods, how you pack your items can make or break the success of that delivery. Damaged products, delays, and extra costs are often the result of poor packing but with the right approach, you can avoid all of that.

At UFS, we handle deliveries across Malaysia daily, from household items to engineering parts for the oil & gas industry. Here are 7 proven tips to help you pack smart, safe, and efficient before handing anything over for delivery.

1. Use the Right Box for the Job

Always choose a box that suits the weight and size of the item:

• Light items: Standard corrugated boxes are fine.
• Heavy or bulky items: Double-wall or reinforced boxes are safer.
• Odd-shaped or fragile goods: Consider crates or custom packaging.

Make sure the box isn’t too large as excess space increases movement inside, leading to damage.

2. Wrap and Cushion Fragile Items Properly

Use bubble wrap, foam, or packing peanuts to protect delicate items. The golden rule is: “Wrap individually and cushion collectively.”

Examples:

• Wrap glass items with multiple layers of bubble wrap.
• Use foam blocks around machinery parts to absorb impact.
• Avoid newspapers, as ink can stain certain materials.

Fragile labels are helpful but good packing is what really protects.

3. Seal Everything Securely

A strong seal is critical, especially for heavy items or long-distance deliveries.
Use high-quality packing tape (not cellophane or masking tape) and apply the H-taping method:

• One strip along the center
• One strip along each side flap

Reinforce the bottom and edges for extra strength. For crates, secure with metal clips or screws if needed.

4. Label Clearly and Consistently

Whether it’s a home relocation or an engineering part delivery:

• Mark each box with “To” and “From” addresses.
• Include handling instructions: “Fragile,” “This Side Up,” or “Keep Dry.”
• If items are going to a project site, include PO number, site name, or recipient department.

At UFS, we scan and sort based on labels, so clarity speeds up your delivery.

5. Don’t Overpack or Underfill

Overpacked boxes risk bursting open, while underfilled ones collapse during stacking.

Use filling materials (e.g. kraft paper, foam) to fill gaps
For industrial items, ensure weight is distributed evenly
Test by shaking the box, if you hear movement, it needs more cushioning

Bonus: Overweight boxes might be rejected or incur surcharges during shipping.

6. Group Items by Destination or Category

If you’re sending multiple items to different sites (common for oil & gas or retail clients), group them:

• Label boxes by project, destination, or site code
• Color-code for easy sorting during unloading
• Include a master packing list if there are 10+ items

At UFS, this helps us load by delivery route and reduce errors at drop-off points.

7. Take Photos Before Sealing

A simple but often overlooked step. Snap clear photos of:

• The packed item (especially fragile or high-value goods)
• The sealed box with labels
• The inside contents before final closure

Photos help verify condition, prevent disputes, and simplify insurance claims in rare cases of damage.

Why Packing Matters to UFS and You

We’ve seen it all, items arriving safely after days on the road, and others damaged in the first hour due to poor packing. UFS always encourages clients to follow professional standards, and our team is happy to advise or assist with packing on request.

Whether it’s a box of business inventory or a shipment of critical valves and fasteners for the oil & gas sector, smart packing is your first line of defense.

Final Note

Efficient, safe packing isn’t just about boxes and tape, it’s about protecting your investment, saving time, and ensuring a smooth delivery experience.

Need help moving sensitive cargo or industrial parts?
UFS offers logistics solutions and support services tailored to your delivery needs. Contact us for secure, professional delivery across Malaysia.