Packaging Perfection: Essential Supplies for Shipping Fragile Items Safely

PackageIt Team • July 17, 2024

Experts project the market value of the transportation industry to reach $4.11 trillion by 2024. This industry involves a wide range of businesses, including shipping and logistics companies, manufacturers, retailers, and wholesalers. With the nonstop rising popularity of online shopping and international trade, the demand for safe and secure packaging solutions has never been higher.


Shipping fragile items, in particular, can be daunting, as the slightest mishap during transit can lead to damage, disappointment, and financial loss. As such, using the right shipping supplies is crucial. With the appropriate fragile item shipping materials and techniques, you can ensure your items arrive at their destination in pristine condition.

Why Packaging Matters

Packaging refers to designing, evaluating, and producing containers or materials that hold and protect products. The purposes of packaging includes the following:

  • Protection: Packaging is a barrier that shields fragile items from impacts, vibrations, and environmental factors such as moisture and dust during transit.
  • Containment: Effective packaging keeps all components together in a single unit to prevent item loss or misplacement.
  • Information: Packaging delivers essential information about the product, such as handling instructions, product specifications, and regulatory compliance details.
  • Marketing: Packaging creates a visual appeal that attracts potential buyers, influences consumer decisions, and enhances brand recognition.
  • Convenience: The proper packaging facilitates easier handling, stacking, and shelving of products.


Packaging comes in various forms depending on the type and size of the item being shipped. For example, cardboard boxes may work well for standard goods, mailers may be more suitable for smaller, lightweight items, and pallets may be needed for larger items or combining multiples of an item in a shipment.

Must-Have Shipping Supplies for Fragile Item Shipping

Fragile items such as glass, electronics, jewelry, music albums, and component parts require special handling. What shipping supplies do you need to transport these items safely?


Custom Boxes

custom boxes

Unlike generic boxes, custom boxes fit the specific dimensions of your item for minimal movement during transit. This feature reduces the risk of your item colliding with other items or the sides of the box, minimizing potential damage. For example, at PackageIt, we used custom boxes with Drowned World Records for their one-of-a-kind vintage music album business.

Double-Walled Boxes

Double-walled boxes feature two layers of corrugated cardboard, offering enhanced strength and resistance to impacts. Double-walled boxes are perfect for heavier or more delicate items like electronics or large glass pieces.

Packing Peanuts and Bubble Wrap

Fill materials are essential in fragile item shipping, and packing peanuts and bubble wrap are timeless choices. Packing peanuts fill voids within the box, preventing the item from shifting. On the other hand, bubble wrap provides cushioning and absorbs shocks. When shipping fragile electronics or jewelry, these materials create extra protection around your valuable items.

Foam Inserts and Padded Dividers

Foam inserts and padded dividers are indispensable for shipping supplies, especially for items with multiple components or irregular shapes. You can cut these inserts and customize them to cradle each part securely, preventing movement and potential damage. These materials are particularly useful for shipping electronics, parts, or multiple glass items.

Sealing Tape and Labels

Robust and high-quality sealing tape keeps your package securely closed throughout its journey. Additionally, “Fragile” labels can alert handlers to take extra care with your parcel, further safeguarding your items.

The Benefits of Using the Right Packaging

Using suitable packaging has many advantages for both the seller and the buyer. At PackageIt, our shipping supplies for fragile item shipping guarantee increased customer satisfaction, cost savings, and more.

Increased Customer Satisfaction

With the correct packaging, the fragile items arrive at their destination undamaged, significantly enhancing customer satisfaction. Consequently, satisfied customers are more likely to turn into loyal customers and return for future purchases.

Enhanced Brand Reputation

When items arrive in pristine condition, they reflect positively on your brand. Customers associate careful and thoughtful packaging with a company’s professionalism and attention to detail, enhancing their overall perception of your business.

Cost Savings

Fewer damaged goods result in fewer returns, refunds, and replacements, which can be expensive for businesses. Investing in quality packaging materials can be more cost-effective in the long term than the expenses associated with resolving shipping issues.

Efficient Use of Resources

Selecting the right packaging allows for efficient use of materials and space. Well-designed packaging can reduce the need for excessive padding and minimize the overall size of the package. This efficiency can lead to lower shipping costs.

Reduced Environmental Impact

The global sustainable packaging market value reached $271.86 billion in 2023. Using eco-friendly packaging materials and practices benefits the environment and caters to the growing number of environmentally conscious consumers. Sustainable packaging solutions help reduce shipping’s carbon footprint.

Get Expert Help from PackageIt

At PackageIt, we understand the importance of shipping fragile items safely. Our team of product packaging experts is ready to deliver the perfect packaging solutions for your needs. Whether you need custom boxes, specialized fill materials, or advice on the best practices for fragile item shipping, we’re here to create, provide, and assist. Call (888) 743-0907 or contact us online to get started!

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