Packing tips: Pack your parcel correctly and send it safely

Proper parcel packaging is essential to ensure that your parcel reaches the recipient safely and intact. But how is a parcel actually packed correctly? To answer this question, we have put together some helpful packing tips. After all, there are a few things to consider if the contents of the parcel are not to be damaged. Moreover, it is possible to make the parcel packaging yourself. In this way, you not only save money for the packaging, but also help the environment by packing your parcels in a sustainable way.

Use robust outer packaging

The best protection for your parcel contents is provided by new cardboard made of high-quality and moisture-resistant, at least double-wall cardboard.
Sufficiently large cardboard boxes also offer enough space for the goods to be shipped and the inner padding.
When packing the parcel, you should pay attention to corner, surface and edge protection.
If possible, only use used or homemade cardboard boxes for insensitive goods.

Finding the right inner padding

In order to fix the goods immovably in the package, you should completely fill all cavities inside with cushioning material.
Which cushioning material is most suitable is determined by the goods being shipped.
For heavy and sensitive goods, precisely fitting polystyrene mouldings are recommended.
For light and insensitive goods, you can use bubble wrap or old newspaper.
Try to avoid direct contact between the goods and the outer packaging of the package.

Make your own parcel packaging: When does it make sense?

Sturdy outer packaging and the right inner padding are essential for sending your parcel correctly. Especially with valuable and fragile goods, you should not take any risks and pack your parcel in the best possible way. For regular parcel contents, you can make the parcel packaging yourself. This environmentally friendly approach includes both reusing used cardboard boxes and packing in natural, biodegradable materials such as jute or hemp. But to pack your parcel properly, you should also heed the following tips:

Securely close the package

A robust closure of the package is an important factor for safe transport.
Wrap the package with adhesive tape so that all sides are securely closed.
As a rule of thumb, the heavier or larger the package, the stronger the packing tape must be.

Place the parcel label legibly

Always place the shipping label on the largest side of the parcel.
Remove old labels or returns labels to avoid misunderstandings.
Send the properly packed parcels individually - no bundles, as each parcel must have its own parcel label.

Packing parcels like a pro: no problem with these extra tips

Your parcel is properly packed, securely closed and the parcel label is attached legibly? Then you can actually send the parcel off now, can't you? Almost. You should also know the following tips:

Extra tips

Adhere to the maximum parcel size and weight for everything you send. 
More information on this is available on the page Price overview for Germany & Europe.
Certain items, such as medication, cash or perishable goods, cannot be sent with GLS.
You can find the full list of forbidden items in the general terms and conditions.
GLS boxes are the ideal parcel packaging and can be bought directly from many GLS ParcelShops in sizes XS, S and M.
Bulky goods: the shape of the parcel packaging can contribute to it being considered "unsortable". 
You will find more information on this in the NC goods guideline in our downloads section.

Create and pay conveniently online

With GLS-ONE from 3.50 € and with optional registration, you can handle everything online for even greater convenience.

To online franking

The GLS App for when you're on the move

The free GLS App (Android & iOS) lets you conveniently create parcel labels using your smartphone.

App downloads & details

Complete and pay at the GLS ParcelShop

You will find a GLS ParcelShop very close by and conveniently situated.

To the GLS ParcelShop search

Useful quick links

Create parcel label online now

Price overview for Germany & Europe

GLS App

Any questions? Visit our FAQ service center.