packing and labelling guidelines

 

  • Always use strong, good-quality boxes or packaging materials

  • If you are reusing packaging, always remove old labels including any hazardous materials information stickers

  • Always use the correct-sized box for your items – if the box is too large it could collapse and, likewise, if the box is too small it could burst during transit

  • Be sensible about the weight of items that you put in a box – don't overload boxes

  • Pack items in the centre of a box with plenty of cushioning, to stop any movement during transit. Use bubble wrap, shreds, packaging chips, even old newspapers

  • Protect data storage media with appropriate cushioning and ideally wrap each item separately

  • Pack smaller items in larger boxes and remember that some attractively packaged gifts are not always suitable for shipping directly - they will usually require separate outer packaging and protection

  • Make sure that liquids, semi-liquids, powders or strong smelling substances are properly sealed in leak-proof containers and further wrapped in plastic bags and held upright in a strong box and correctly labelled with ‘arrow up’ signs

  • Make sure that liquids, semi-liquids, powders or strong smelling substances are properly sealed in leak-proof containers and further wrapped in plastic bags and held upright in a strong box and correctly labelled with ‘arrow up’ signs

  • Wines and spirits – firstly pack bottles into an inner box, and then add rigid outer packaging for extra protection. Use corrugated cardboard or foam dividers, ideally use bespoke packaging when shipping bottles.

  • Fragile items should be well cushioned from the sides and particularly at the bottom of the boxes. Label boxes as fragile and include ‘arrow up‘ stickers.

  • Always protect sharp items securely, carefully wrapping any scissors or knives to protect them from piercing through packaging materials

  • Use strong packaging tape or a strapping machine to secure parcels (not domestic adhesive tape), making sure all flaps are securely fastened

  • Write all labels clearly (using capitals) and never cover them up with tape or film

  • Include both address and sender details inside so that even if the outer label becomes detached, APC Overnight can still safely deliver your parcel.

Dry Ice Reminder

Due to the potentially hazardous nature of dry ice, we are only able to ship the substance through our network once the following requirements are satisfied:

  • Packages should be marked clearly, eg ‘this package contains dry ice’

  • UN Number 1845 must be displayed

  • Packaging must state that the contents are non-hazardous

  • Handling awareness labels should be used, i.e. ‘handle with care, always use protective gloves etc’

  • Secure boxes and containers must be used, but should also allow for the release of carbon dioxide. Airtight containers are not to be used.

  • A package containing dry ice as the shipment or as a coolant for the shipment can weigh no more than 20 kg.

  • Packages containing dry ice can only be collected from and delivered to areas within mainland UK. We cannot ship dry ice offshore or internationally.

  • Dry ice cannot be the sole substance within the package.

Provided the above requirements are met, dry ice can be shipped on a standard service, liquid service is not necessarily required. Any consignments that are found not to be compliant with the above will be held at our sorting hub, where specialist arrangements will be made to return the package at a cost. Thank you for taking the steps necessary to ensure the safety of both staff and customers.