Articles on: Packaging

Optimal Packaging for International Shipping: Tips for South African SMEs

Want your package to arrive in one piece and on time? Then don’t skimp on the packaging. Whether you're shipping ceramics to Cape Town or skincare to Scotland, how you package your products plays a big role in keeping them safe, compliant, and cost-effective.


Below, you'll find best practices for international shipping, plus smart tips for packaging tricky items like liquids, ceramics, and clothing. We’ve even included reminders to take photos and accurate dimensions of your parcels as evidence for any rebilling charges. Let’s dive in!


Let’s dive in!


Why Optimal Packaging Matters


Every box, bag, or sleeve you use is part of your brand’s international handshake. And when done right, good packaging helps you:


  • Prevent breakages and leaks


  • Avoid extra shipping fees or delays


  • Stay compliant with customs


  • Protect your business from disputes


At TUNL, we’re all for making global trade simple. But that simplicity starts with solid packing on your end.


Your Packaging Checklist 🧰


Before you get that quote or stick on a shipping label, gather these essentials:


Image of Equipment you need to efficiently package your products according to TUNL standards.



  • Waterproof flyer bags (FedEx, UPS, or unbranded options) [Item 1]


  • Foam-lined boxes or sturdy cardboard boxes


  • Bubble wrap or foam peanuts


  • Heavy-duty tape and scissors [Item 2, 7, 8]


  • Fragile stickers or tape [Item 3 and 6]


  • Shipping sleeves or waterproof A5 tower stickers [Item 11 and 12]


  • Electronic scale and ruler or tape measure [Item 4, 9, 10]


  • Clear sellotape for sealing and waterproofing [Item 8]


📸 Pro tip: Take photos of your packaged items—especially if they’re high-value or fragile. This helps with insurance claims if something goes wrong in transit.



Examples of well-packaged parcels using TUNL-approved materials: waterproof flyer, foam-lined box, clear shipping labels, and fragile stickers.



General Guidelines for Safe International Packaging


  1. Choose the Right Container

Use a box or flyer bag that’s just the right size - too big and the item will rattle around; too small and it might burst at the seams.


💡 Always opt for waterproof options. If you’re using boxes, add a plastic inner layer to guard against leaks or weather.


  1. Cushion Everything - Even if the item feels sturdy, treat it like it’s fragile:


  • Wrap each item individually with bubble wrap


  • Fill empty spaces with air pillows or foam peanuts


  • Keep items from touching the sides of the box


  1. Seal it Securely


  • Use heavy-duty packaging tape on all seams


  • Reinforce corners and flaps


  • Secure flyer bags and sleeves with clear tape (avoid covering the label)


Packaging Tips for Specific Items


🧴 Liquids (Cosmetics, Skincare, etc.)


  • Use leak-proof bottles and containers


  • Seal caps with tape or shrink wrap


  • Place each item in a sealable plastic bag


  • Double box fragile liquid containers with foam lining


🪵 Ceramics, Glass & Breakables


  • Wrap each item separately with bubble wrap


  • Use a foam-lined or double-walled box


  • Add extra padding on all sides (top, bottom, and around)


  • Clearly mark all sides with “Fragile” stickers


Advised shipping box for Fragile items



👚 Clothing & Soft Goods


  • Use waterproof flyer bags in appropriate sizes (Small, Medium, or Large)


  • Fold items neatly to reduce space and wrinkles


  • Don’t overstuff - rather size up to protect seams



📏 ⚖️ How to Measure and Label Correctly


Always measure and weigh after packaging:


  • Use a tape measure for dimensions (in cm)


  • Weigh the full package, including all packaging materials


💡 Use this info accurately on your quote and booking - incorrect details = penalties


📦🏷️ Your Shipping Label Must Include:


(When booking through the TUNL app, the information you enter will appear on your downloadable waybill once your shipment is confirmed):


  • The recipient’s full and correct address


  • Your return address


  • The accurate weight and dimensions of the packaged item


💡 Pro tip: Physically write your parcel’s waybill or tracking number directly on the box. That way, if the label falls off during transit, your shipment can still be identified and delivered without delay.


💡 Pro tip: Always double-check your parcel’s weight and dimensions. Accurate measurements help you avoid unexpected charges or delays.


Need more info?


Check out our rebilling article for a quick guide on how to stay in the clear.


📦 Note: TUNL won’t ship any package without a label. If you’re using regular paper, protect it with clear tape or use a shipping sleeve to keep it legible and weather-resistant.


Final Reminders


🛑 Avoid:


  • Using damaged or old packaging


  • Shipping without measuring final dimensions


  • Booking your shipment before packaging is complete


✅ Always:


  • Use “Fragile” stickers for delicate items


  • Take clear photos before sealing


  • Secure flyer bags without covering the shipping label


Quick Reference: Flyer Bag Sizes

Size Dimensions (cm

Small 25 x 35 x 5

Medium 37 x 44 x 5

Large 46 x 60 x 5


Checkout our TUNL Packaging Supplies article on how to order!


Happy packing, smart shipper!


The world is ready for your products - let’s make sure they arrive in style. 🌍


Updated on: 18/06/2025

Was this article helpful?

Share your feedback

Cancel

Thank you!