Laszlo Horvath, director of the Center for Packaging and Unit Load Design at Virginia Tech, says many people underestimate how rough parcel delivery can be. He recommends a simple 12-inch drop test: if a gift fails that drop, it is not ready to ship. This one-foot drop rule helps cut the risk of damage in transit.
Horvath explains that delivery drivers are evaluated on speed, not careful handling, so packages must be prepared to withstand different variables. Shipping directly from the retailer is often the best choice because products sold through large online retailers are usually designed to survive parcel delivery and the merchant is responsible if damage occurs. Many merchants also offer complimentary one- or two-day shipping.
He adds that reusing boxes is appealing, but current parcel systems are not designed for reuse. For now, corrugated boxes and fiber-based protective materials are the most environmentally responsible option. Alternatives to plastic bubble wrap include cellulose wadding, crumpled kraft paper, crinkle paper, and honeycomb paper. Practical packing tips: use springy cushioning, skip "fragile" labels, seal top and bottom edges with 2-inch packaging tape, and fill gaps to stop movement.
Difficult words
- underestimate — to think something is less bad or serious
- withstand — to not be damaged by a force or condition
- merchant — a company or person who sells goods
- corrugated — material with folded ridges used for strong boxes
- cushioning — soft material that protects items from shock
- transit — the process of moving goods from one place
- complimentary — free of charge; given without payment
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you ever received a damaged package? How could better packing have helped?
- Would you prefer to buy directly from a retailer or from a large online marketplace for shipping reasons? Why?
- Which alternative to plastic bubble wrap would you try when packing a fragile gift, and why?
