A courier can only deliver what arrives intact. Most damage, delays and surprise charges start before the driver reaches your door — with a box that was too thin, a label that came off, or a parcel that was never measured properly. This guide walks through the packing process step by step, with the practical details that matter for South African collections.
Why packing matters more than most people think
A parcel moves through a collection vehicle, a depot, a linehaul truck and a delivery van before it reaches the recipient. It gets stacked, shifted and bumped. Good packing protects the contents, keeps the parcel within its booked size, and makes the label easy to scan.
It also affects price. Couriers charge on actual or volumetric weight, whichever is greater, so a light parcel in an oversized box can cost more than it should. Packing tightly is cheaper as well as safer.
Step 1: Choose a box that fits
Use a new, sturdy box — ideally double-wall for anything fragile or heavy. The box should be slightly larger than the item, with enough room for padding on every side.
Do not reuse a flimsy box that has already been through the network. If you reuse one, remove every old label and barcode first, and check that the corners are still rigid.
Step 2: Protect the item before it goes in
Wrap the item in bubble wrap, foam or several layers of paper. Fragile items need about 5cm of cushioning on every side. Wrap each item separately if you are sending more than one.
Liquids belong in a sealed inner bag, upright, with the lid taped. Mark the box "This way up" if orientation matters.
Step 3: Fill the empty space
A parcel should not move when you shake it gently. Fill gaps with crumpled paper, foam peanuts or air pillows. Do not overfill the box until it bulges — a bulging box is weaker and may not fit the booked size.
Step 4: Seal it properly
Use strong packing tape, not masking tape or string. Tape the top and bottom seams, then run tape down the edges in an H-shape. Press the tape down firmly so it bonds to the cardboard.
Step 5: Label it clearly
Write or print the recipient's full address and contact number, and include your own return address. Put a copy of the address inside the box as well, in case the outer label is damaged.
Cover the label with clear tape so it cannot smudge or peel. Remove old barcodes and address labels from a reused box.
Step 6: Measure and weigh before you book
Measure the box's length, width and height, and weigh it. Check the measurements against the service you are booking — satchels, lockers and standard parcels all have limits.
If the parcel is light but bulky, ask about volumetric weight before you pay. A tight pack usually keeps you in a lower bracket. Declare the correct value so the insurance cover matches the contents.
What to have ready when the courier arrives
The parcel should be sealed, labelled and ready to go before the collection window. Make sure someone can hand it over, the address is easy to find, and your phone is reachable.
If you are in a complex or office park, give the unit number and gate code when you book. In Gauteng, UrgentGo aims to collect within about 90 minutes, so being ready matters.
Common packing mistakes that cost time and money
- Reusing a weak box with old labels still attached.
- Leaving space inside so the contents slide around.
- Using too little tape on the seams.
- Writing an incomplete address or leaving off a contact number.
- Guessing the size and weight instead of measuring.
- Sealing the box before checking the restricted-items list.
The bottom line
Good packing is quick: choose a sturdy box, cushion the item, fill the gaps, seal the seams, label it clearly and measure it. Do that, and the collection is straightforward and the parcel has the best chance of arriving exactly as it left.
UrgentGo collects in about 90 minutes in Gauteng, delivers same-day metro parcels from R89, and is rated 4.9★ from 137 reviews. Book in 60 seconds at UrgentGo Courier and get a fixed quote before you pay. See the full courier price list for satchel, same-day and overnight options.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best box for a courier parcel?
A new, rigid cardboard box that fits the item with room for padding. Double-wall board is better for fragile, heavy or high-value items.
How much padding do I need?
About 5cm of cushioning on every side for fragile items. The parcel should not move when you shake it gently.
Can I reuse an old box?
Yes, if it is still rigid. Remove all old labels, barcodes and tape, and check that the corners have not crushed.
Do I need to weigh and measure my parcel?
Yes. Couriers charge on actual or volumetric weight, whichever is greater, and size limits apply to satchels and lockers. Measure before you book.
