How to Pack Electronics for Shipping Without Damage

Box

Use corrugated cardboard marked T-22 or stronger. You can find these at Argos, B&Q or OBI for £3–5 per medium-sized box. Don't use boxes from old appliances, as they've already been stressed.

The box should be 5–7 cm larger than the device on all sides to allow space for padding. Too big, and you'll increase the volumetric weight and shipping cost.

Don't use gift boxes or fancy branded packaging as outer boxes. The thin cardboard will crack in transit.

Padding

Wrap the device in 2–3 layers of bubble wrap, focusing on corners, screen, and ports, as these are most prone to damage.

Fill all empty space inside the box with paper, foam peanuts, or foam padding. If the box rattles when tilted, add more padding.

A good test: after packing, you should be able to lift, turn, and shake the box without the device moving inside. If it moves, add more padding.

How to Wrap Specific Items

**Laptop.** Close the lid and wrap it tightly in bubble wrap. Place it screen up (if the box is marked "This side up") or in the center of the box. Pack the charger and cables separately in a bag next to the laptop, not on top.

**Smartphone or Tablet.** Use the original box, as it's designed for the device's dimensions. Place that box inside a larger box with padding. If the original packaging is intact, you don't need to wrap the phone itself.

**PC Tower.** Remove the video card and pack it separately in an anti-static bag with padding. Inside the case, use foam between the side panel and the motherboard. It's best to remove hard drives as well.

**Photo Equipment.** Pack lenses separately from the camera body, each in its own soft case or bubble wrap. Protect camera sensors with a cap, and lenses with caps on both ends.

Marking

Clearly label the box "Fragile" on two sides. Add "This side up" arrows on two opposite sides so the courier can see them from any angle.

Write the recipient's address clearly with a marker or printed label. Cover it with clear tape to protect it from rain.

Include a duplicate address inside the box. If the external label comes off, the parcel won't get lost in sorting.

Insurance

Basic insurance is included up to €50 per parcel. This is enough for clothes and books, but not for a laptop. If the item inside is worth more than €200, purchase extended insurance. It usually costs 1–2% of the declared value.

Keep the receipt for the device and photos of the unpacked box before shipping. If damage occurs, you'll need these documents for an insurance claim.

What Not to Do

Don't use masking tape to seal the box, as it comes off in humidity. Use clear packing tape at least 48 mm wide.

Don't write just "electronics" on the customs declaration. Specify the model: "Apple MacBook Air M2", "iPhone 14". Otherwise, customs will ask for clarification, delaying the parcel by 3–5 days.

Don't ship lithium-ion batteries separately from the device — it's a prohibited item. They are allowed inside the device.