No matter where you’re sending your package, whether it’s within the UK, to Europe or worldwide, it will be handled at several depots as it makes its way to its destination.

 

Why Waterproofing Your Parcel Matters

As some of its transitions will be outside, waterproofing your parcel will help protect it from the elements, keeping it safe and secure during its journey.

Learn how you can waterproof your parcel with our helpful guide.

 

 

Step-by-Step Guide to Waterproofing Your Parcel

1. Choose a sturdy box

We always recommend that you use triple-walled cardboard boxes to post your items.

These boxes aren’t waterproof, but they’re strong and will be less likely to break during transit, leaving your items exposed to the elements.

Remember that the box you choose will need to be slightly larger than what you’re sending to leave room for packing materials. You should also check that the box is strong enough to hold the weight of your items when it's fully packed.

If you’re sending clothes, you could use a waterproof parcel bag instead of a box, which will keep your items clean and dry. The bonus of using a parcel bag where possible is that it keeps the weight down meaning you get access to cheaper postage.

2. Use waterproof packing materials

It’s good practice to wrap each item individually to give them some extra protection before putting them inside your box, but using waterproof packing materials will keep them extra safe.

Bubble wrap is the number one choice for this. It’s waterproof and provides enough cushioning to keep even some delicate items protected on their journey. Another option is to wrap your items in paper and then seal them in a plastic bag.

You should fill any gaps in your package with balled up bubble wrap or air pillows to keep your items secure.

3. Seal the edges with weatherproof tape

Sealing your parcel well will help keep it weatherproof.

We advise sealing all the edges with strong packing tape that is approximately 50mm wide. To create a waterproof parcel box, you’ll need to seal along all the edges of the flaps on the top and bottom of the box.

4. Wrap with plastic or waterproof covers

If you’re sending a large parcel, shrink wrap is a great idea. Not only is it a good waterproof cover, but it will help keep your box securely sealed too.

Don’t wrap your parcels in black plastic though. Parcels wrapped in black plastic can cause problems with automated sortation machines, meaning your package could be delayed or returned.

5. Protect your delivery label

The easiest way to make sure your delivery label stays safe and dry is to pop it in a clear plastic wallet. You can then attach the wallet securely to the outside of your box with strong tape.

It’s best not to cover the delivery label with tape as it can make it difficult to scan the barcode.

6. Use waterproof labels

If you’re sending your parcel during winter, or it will travel a long way, waterproof labels are a brilliant investment.

The great thing is that the address on the waterproof label won’t run or smudge if it gets caught in the rain, meaning you can be confident the delivery address will be legible throughout its entire journey.

You can buy waterproof labels online, and the good news is—you won’t need a special waterproof label printer to use them!

 

Additional Tips for Sending Waterproof Packages

These are our top tips for sending waterproof packages.

Go for collection services

Avoid having to take your parcels out in bad weather by opting for a collection service. Collected from your doorstep or your office, this convenient service means you won’t have to step outside to send your packages.

Deliver to a safe place

Some couriers can deliver to a safe place—perfect if you know you won't be in to receive a delivery. You can specify this safe space to be somewhere dry where your parcel will be protected from the weather until you or your recipient can collect it.

Opt for a timed delivery

Timed deliveries are another great option. Services such as our Parcelforce super-fast delivery can deliver your parcel by 9am, 10am or 12pm the next day. Great for when someone needs to be in to receive it.

Add parcel protection

If you’re sending something valuable, parcel protection can give you extra peace of mind.

 

Is Parcel Protection Worth it?

Yes, we think it is.

We only work with the UK’s most trusted couriers, but loss or damage can still sometimes happen. Think of adding parcel protection if you’re:

• Sending high value items
• Shipping packages you've sold on a marketplace like Vinted, or if you're sending from a business
• Shipping parcels internationally

Depending on the service you choose, you could protect the value of your package up to £10,000 and give yourself cover against lost, damaged, or stolen parcels.

To find out how much it will cost to protect your parcel, get a free quote with us!