Not all parcels are created equal. Whether you’re sending a delicate painting, a bulky bike, or your beloved vinyl collection, the right packing and shipping method makes all the difference. At Stasher, we understand that certain items require extra care, planning, and the right materials to ensure they arrive safely — and intact.

That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you pack and ship a wide range of commonly posted items. From electronics and furniture to flowers and musical instruments, you’ll find tailored advice for each category. Think of this page as your go-to checklist before sending anything that doesn’t quite fit in a standard cardboard box.

Electronics

Electronics are among the most commonly shipped — and most easily damaged — items. Proper packing and clear labelling can protect against drops, bumps, and heat during transit. Here’s how to ship specific electronic items safely:

How to Pack and Ship an iPad

• Use original packaging where possible — it’s designed to fit snugly and protect the device.
• If using alternative packaging, wrap the iPad in bubble wrap, place it in a padded box, and then double-box with a second, slightly larger box filled with cushioning material (e.g. packing peanuts or crumpled paper).
• Include a “fragile” label and ensure the package is insured.
• If the iPad contains lithium-ion batteries, check your courier’s battery shipping rules — you may need to apply specific hazard labels.

How to Pack and Ship a TV

• Ideally, pack the TV in its original box with foam corner protectors.
• If not available, use a strong double-walled box and wrap the screen in anti-static bubble wrap. Protect corners with Styrofoam or folded cardboard.
• TVs should be shipped upright, not flat — mark the box clearly to show the correct orientation.
• Include padding around the base, and tape the box securely with reinforced packaging tape.

How to Pack and Ship a PC or Desktop Computer

• Remove all loose or delicate internal parts (e.g. GPU, hard drives) and pack them separately in anti-static bags.
• Wrap the case in bubble wrap and place in a box with foam inserts or crumpled paper to limit movement.
• Cables, peripherals, and accessories should be bagged and clearly labelled.
• Label the box “fragile – electronics” and insure the shipment for the device’s value.

How to Pack and Ship General Electronics (e.g. Cameras, Headphones, Gaming Consoles)

• Wrap each item separately and secure loose cables or accessories.
• Use anti-static padding where applicable.
• Always ship with sufficient cushioning inside a rigid, sealed box.
• Avoid placing items near box edges where they’re more likely to take impact damage.

Clothing and Accessories

Some garments and personal items require more than a quick fold and toss into a parcel. Whether you’re sending a treasured wedding dress or a luxury fur coat, these guidelines will help you protect them from creasing, moisture, and wear during transit.

How to Pack and Ship a Fur Coat

• Never vacuum seal a fur coat — it can crush the pile and damage the fibres.
• Instead, gently fold the coat with acid-free tissue paper between layers.
• Place it in a large garment bag and then into a durable cardboard box, allowing space to avoid crushing.
• Use desiccant packets to absorb moisture and clearly mark the package as ‘Keep Dry’.
• Ship via a tracked, insured service — and notify the recipient so it can be unpacked promptly.

How to Pack and Ship a Wedding Dress

• Fold the dress with acid-free tissue paper to prevent yellowing and creases.
• Use a breathable garment bag and place it in a box large enough to preserve its shape.
• Stuff sleeves and bodices with tissue for support, and tape the box securely.
• Opt for express or next-day delivery to reduce time in transit and avoid prolonged compression.
• If shipping internationally, check customs regulations for high-value garments.

Student Shipping Tips

• Pack essentials (clothing, bedding, books) into sturdy boxes or suitcases.
• Label each box with the student’s name and contact info.
• Don’t include prohibited items like aerosols or liquids, especially for international shipping.
• Keep a checklist of what’s been packed — it’s useful both for customs forms and for unpacking.
• If shipping overseas, check customs rules for used clothing and personal effects, and include a packing list for inspection.

Sports and Outdoor Equipment

Bulky, valuable, and often oddly shaped — sports equipment can be a challenge to ship. Here’s how to handle some of the most commonly sent items.

How to Pack and Ship a Bike

• Start by removing the pedals, front wheel, seat, and handlebars.
• Wrap each part with foam or bubble wrap and secure with cable ties.
• Place the frame and parts in a bike box or hard-sided travel case.
• Fill empty spaces with padding to prevent movement.
• Clearly mark the box as “fragile” and “this way up”.
• Take photos before sealing for insurance purposes, and consider tracked shipping.

How to Pack and Ship Golf Clubs

• Use a rigid golf travel case if possible — these offer the best protection.
• Wrap club heads in bubble wrap or towels.
• Use packing paper or foam to fill any gaps inside the bag.
• Label the bag clearly and include a tag with your contact details.
• For extra security, opt for courier services that specialise in sports equipment.

How to Pack and Ship Skis

• Clean and dry skis before packing to prevent rust or mildew.
• Wrap skis in bubble wrap and place in a ski bag or hard travel case.
• Add padding between bindings and secure with straps or tape.
• If sending poles, wrap them separately and tape them together to prevent shifting.
• Label clearly and ship with insurance for full replacement value.

Art, Gifts and Fragile Goods

These items often carry sentimental or financial value, so careful packing and labelling are essential. Fragility, perishability, and customs considerations can all add complexity to the shipping process.

How to Pack and Ship Paintings

• Use a rigid cardboard or wooden box slightly larger than the artwork.
• Wrap the painting in acid-free paper, followed by several layers of bubble wrap.
• Add corner protectors and place the wrapped artwork between two stiff boards.
• Fill empty space in the box with foam or packing peanuts to prevent shifting.
• Mark the box as “fragile” and “do not bend”, and use tracked, insured delivery.

How to Pack and Ship Vinyl Records

• Remove the vinyl from the sleeve and ship both items separately within the same box to avoid seam splits.
• Place the record in a poly sleeve, then sandwich between cardboard stiffeners.
• Use a LP mailer box designed for records, with added bubble wrap or padding.
• Avoid over-packing multiple records in a single parcel — limit to 3–4 per package.
• Mark the parcel as “fragile – do not bend”.

How to Ship Cake

• Use a sturdy cake box with internal supports to stop shifting.
• Freeze the cake before packing if possible — it helps it stay intact during transit.
• Place in a cooler box with gel packs or dry ice (depending on courier regulations).
• Double-box the cake with bubble wrap between layers for extra protection.
• Clearly label as “perishable” and “this side up”.
• Choose next-day delivery and avoid weekend dispatch.

How to Send Gifts Overseas

• Choose lightweight and compact gifts to minimise shipping costs.
• Avoid restricted or perishable items, especially food or alcohol.
• Include a customs declaration form detailing the contents and value.
• Gift wrap inside the box only — customs may require inspection.
• Use cushioning materials and a strong, plain outer box.
• Consider insurance and tracking if the gift is valuable or time-sensitive.

How to Pack and Ship Flowers

• Choose hardy flowers such as carnations or chrysanthemums for better survival in transit.
• Trim stems, wrap in damp paper towels, and place in a waterproof liner inside the box.
• Use vented flower boxes designed for floral delivery.
• Add cooling packs in warm weather.
• Mark the package “perishable” and choose the fastest delivery option available.
• Avoid shipping over weekends or bank holidays.

Bulky and Unusual Items

When shipping oversized or unconventional items like furniture or vehicles, the right preparation is essential. These shipments often require special packaging, additional paperwork, and coordination with specialist couriers.

How to Pack and Ship Furniture

• Disassemble where possible — remove legs, shelves, and fragile components.
• Wrap each part in bubble wrap or foam sheets, especially corners and edges.
• Use furniture blankets or heavy-duty plastic for extra protection.
• Pack smaller parts (e.g. screws, bolts) in labelled bags and tape them securely to the main piece.
• Place items in a double-walled box or custom crate, with padding to prevent movement.
• For valuable or antique furniture, consider white glove delivery services.

How to Ship a Car

• Choose between open transport (more affordable, less protected) and enclosed transport (better for classic or luxury cars).
• Clean the car and photograph its condition before shipping.
• Remove personal items, disable alarms, and leave around ¼ tank of fuel.
• Provide documentation, including registration and proof of ownership.
• If shipping internationally, check for import/export requirements, taxes, and emissions rules in the destination country.
• Work with a licensed auto transport company that offers insurance and GPS tracking.

Final Tips For Shipping Your Items

• Always choose the right courier for your item type — some specialise in artwork, perishables, or bulky freight.
• Consider insurance and tracking for high-value shipments.
• When in doubt, consult your courier’s packing guidelines or contact Stasher for advice.
• For secure, hassle-free deliveries, pair this guide with our on-demand courier and storage solutions, designed to simplify life’s logistics.