Shipping Guide
Everything you need to prepare a shipment: packing, labelling, weights and dimensions, documents, customs and restricted items.
Packing your shipment
Good packing is the best protection for your goods. Use packaging that suits the weight and fragility of what you're sending.
- Use a strong, rigid box — double-walled for heavy items. Avoid reusing damaged boxes.
- Wrap each item separately and fill empty space with cushioning so nothing moves.
- Seal all seams with strong packing tape using the H-taping method.
- Place heavy items at the bottom and keep the weight evenly spread.
- Secure palletised freight with stretch wrap and straps, and don't let goods overhang the pallet.
- Remove or cover old labels and barcodes.
Labelling and addresses
Clear labels help your shipment move quickly through every facility.
- Include full sender and receiver names, addresses, postal codes and phone numbers.
- Attach the label to the largest flat surface of the package.
- For multi-piece shipments, label every piece and number them (for example 1 of 3).
- Mark fragile items clearly and show "this way up" where needed.
Weight and dimensions
Shipping charges are usually based on either the actual weight or the space a package takes up (volumetric weight) — whichever is greater. Accurate measurements help us give you an accurate quote.
- Weigh the packed shipment, including all packaging.
- Measure the length, width and height of each piece at its longest points.
- For pallets, include the pallet in the height and weight.
- We'll confirm the chargeable weight for your service in your quote.
Documents for international shipments
Shipments that cross a border need paperwork for customs. Requirements vary by country and by the type of goods; we'll tell you exactly what's needed for your route.
- Commercial invoice (or a proforma invoice for non-commercial goods) describing the goods, quantity and value.
- Packing list showing the contents of each piece.
- Any permits, licences or certificates required for your goods.
- Importer and exporter details, including tax or customs registration numbers where required.
Customs, duties and taxes
International shipments may be subject to import duties and taxes set by the destination country. These are separate from shipping charges.
- Describe goods clearly and declare their true value — vague descriptions are a common cause of delays.
- Agree in advance who pays duties and taxes: the sender or the receiver.
- Our customs clearance service can prepare and submit the paperwork for you.
- Customs may inspect shipments. If more information is needed, the tracking page will show the latest status.
Restricted and prohibited items
Some goods can't be shipped, or can only be shipped with special arrangements. Rules differ by country and by transport mode, so please ask us before shipping anything you're unsure about.
- Explosives, fireworks, flammable liquids and gases
- Weapons, ammunition and replicas
- Illegal drugs and controlled substances
- Cash, precious metals and valuable documents
- Hazardous materials such as corrosives, toxins and some batteries (special handling required)
- Perishable goods, plants and animal products (subject to destination rules)
Insuring your shipment
Shipment insurance gives you cover for loss or damage while your goods are in transit. It's optional and recommended for valuable goods.
- Ask for insurance when you request a quote and tell us the value of the goods.
- Keep invoices or proof of value for your records.
- Pack goods properly — insurers expect suitable packaging.
Not sure about something?
Tell us what you're shipping and where — we'll confirm the requirements in your quote.