How to wrap a parcel

Wrap any items before you put them in the box or bag. Fragile items, in particular, must be wrapped as our scanners can’t detect ‘fragile’ or ‘handle with care’ labels. Packaging options include:

Bubble wrap – reuse bubble wrap you have at home. Fun to pop, too

Newspaper – layers of newspaper sheets from yesterday’s newspapers are good for the environment and your wallet

Make sure your precious cargo stays secure by filling any gaps around the item, once it’s placed in the box. Parcel packing options include:

Paper and newspaper – the most environmentally friendly option, scrunched-up newspaper, is an easy way to fill the space

Cardboard – layers of cardboard can create a sturdy shell

Sheets – old but clean sheets can be used to wrap items tightly

Important: Make sure your parcel’s packed so it could fall off a conveyor belt without the contents being damaged.

Your item’s secure, but before you fasten the lid on your box, you need to put some details on a piece of paper inside. Please write:

• Your own name, address and phone number
• The name and address of the parcel’s destination

Why? If the address label comes off your parcel – for example, if the label peels off while it’s traveling – we’ll know where it needs to be sent.

Once your item’s inside its box with the space padded – or snugly tucked inside its mailbag – secure it with tape.

• Choose strong tape – it’s so much more durable and secure
• Cover all openings – that includes across gaps, down the sides and underneath. Lock it down.
• Tape the corners – boost durability by taping the corners. The extra layer acts as a defence against scuffs

We’ve kind of already covered this. But we cannot overstate the importance of securing the edges around your package. If you see it, tape down:

• Cardboard flaps at the top/bottom of your box
• Bits of mailbag that stick out from the main package

Top tip: Basically, anything that’s an edge that sticks out – even slightly – from the package must be flattened and secured. This helps prevent it getting stuck on the belt, avoiding damage.

You’re almost done. But labelling is one of the most important parts of learning how to wrap a package for delivery. Don’t fall at the final hurdle.

• Book your delivery using the Evri website or app (or you could use a Print in ParcelShop device) and print out your label. The label includes the recipient’s name and address and your barcode.
• Position the label in the middle of the top of the parcel if it has flat sides. For round parcels (note: if you’re sending a poster, map etc, use a triangular – rather than circular – tube), secure the label where you have enough surface area.
• Secure the label with good-quality tape – use a small piece along each of the 4 edges. Don’t leave any flappy paper exposed.
• Write your address on a return label and secure to the back of the parcel – clearly mark it as ‘return address’ to avoid confusion.

Is your address inside the box? Don’t forget to include it. If your parcel gets lost, that’s how we can get it back to you.