Practical example: How to safely pack fragile items for parcel locker shipping

Sending fragile items — such as glassware, ceramics, candles, or decorative objects — through a parcel locker can be challenging. To make sure they arrive intact, careful packaging is essential. In this article, we’ll show you step by step how to securely pack such items using air cushion film and a cardboard box.

1. Choose the right cardboard box

Selecting the right box is crucial for safe shipping. It shouldn’t be too large or too tight — ideally, leave about 2–3 cm of space between the item and the box walls for protective material.

When choosing the box, consider:

◼️ The size and shape of the shipment. For example, a wine glass or candle fits best in a simple rectangular cardboard box with tall enough sides — about 5–6 cm higher than the item lying flat inside.

◼️ The thickness of the cardboard. A 3-layer corrugated box is suitable for lighter, less fragile items, while 4 or 5-layer cardboard provides extra protection for heavier or more delicate ones.

◼️ Compatibility with the parcel locker. Make sure the box fits the chosen locker size (S, M, or L). You can find the exact locker compartment dimensions for all networks in Latvia here.

Important:

▢ If the box is too large, the item will move during transport — one of the most common causes of damage. In this case, use air pillows or another soft filler to keep it secure.

▢ If the box is too small, its walls may press directly against the item, and the cardboard alone might not be enough to absorb shocks. It’s better to choose a slightly larger box and add a cushioning layer between the item and the box walls.

2. Wrap the item with air cushion film

Once you’ve chosen the right box, the next step is to properly wrap the item itself. The order and thickness of the protective layers are very important — especially for fragile items. In our example, we’ll pack a wine glass, but the same principles apply to ceramics, candles, or similar breakable objects.

Step-by-Step packing guide

1. Wrap the item with air cushion film. Use one layer if the bubbles are around 3.5 cm in diameter. If you’re using smaller bubbles (around 2 cm), wrap the item in two layers for extra safety — though one layer is often enough. Make sure the item is evenly covered from all sides, leaving no exposed areas.

2. Place the item in the box. Put the wrapped item into the box with the open film edges facing upward — one of the advantages of air cushion film. You don’t need to seal the film with tape — when the box is closed, its flaps naturally press the film around the item, holding it firmly in place during transit.

3. Fill any empty space in the box

Once the item is inside, it’s essential to fill all remaining gaps so it doesn’t move during transport. Empty space increases the risk of impact, especially if the box is turned or shaken.

The safest way to do this is by using air pillows or additional air cushion film sections. These materials are lightweight yet effective — and you don’t need much to stabilize the shipment.

◼️ For small boxes, use 200 × 100 mm or 200 × 120 mm air pillows — they fill narrow gaps well and adapt to the shape.

◼️ For medium boxes, use 200 × 150 mm or 200 × 200 mm pillows for greater cushioning.

◼️ For larger boxes, use 200 × 200 mm pillows or 400 × 320 mm air cushion film, or combine different sizes depending on the shape and weight of the contents.

If the item has sharp edges or corners, choose nylon (PA/PE) air pillows or film for extra resistance to punctures and tearing.

Make sure the item is stable and doesn’t move when you shake the box. If there’s still space near the top, add another layer of air pillows — this protects the shipment in case the box is flipped or compressed by other parcels.

In our example, we also placed a small air pillow inside the glass itself — since the glass walls are thin, pressure from outside could cause it to break. This approach provides cushioning both outside and inside the item.

4. Make sure the box is properly sealed

When everything is securely packed, the final step is to seal the box correctly. Proper sealing protects against accidental opening, moisture, and damage during transport.

Use strong adhesive tape, preferably with a reinforced glue layer or fiber-reinforced backing that adheres better to corrugated cardboard.

Tips for safe sealing:

◼️ Apply tape along the central seam (the middle joint) and make sure it overlaps the box edges by at least 2–3 cm. Recommended for light parcels (up to 5 kg).

◼️ For heavier boxes, use the “H” method — apply additional strips across both ends to form an “H” shape. Recommended for medium-weight parcels (5–15 kg).

◼️ Avoid using paper tape if there’s any chance of exposure to moisture — for example, if the parcel will be handled outdoors or in rainy weather.

Once sealed, gently shake or tilt the box to check if anything moves inside. If you feel movement, reopen the box and add more air pillows or film until the contents are completely stable.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What kind of box should I use for fragile items?

Choose a cardboard box that’s 2–3 cm larger than the item on all sides to allow for protective material. For heavier or more delicate items, use 4–5-layer corrugated cardboard.

How many layers of air cushion film do I need?

One layer is enough if the bubbles are 3.5 cm in diameter. If they’re smaller (around 2 cm), wrap two layers for extra protection.

Do I need to tape the air cushion film?

No — when the box is closed, the film naturally folds around the item and holds it in place.

How should I fill the empty space in the box?

Use air pillows or extra air cushion film. Small boxes: 200×100 mm, medium: 200×150 mm, large: 400×320 mm formats.

What if the item has sharp edges or corners?

Use nylon (PA/PE) air pillows or film — they’re more resistant to punctures and tears.

How should I seal the box securely?

For light parcels, one strip of tape along the center is enough. For heavier ones, use the “H” method with three strips forming an “H”.

How can I be sure the package is safe?

After sealing, gently shake the box — if nothing moves, it’s safe to ship. If you feel movement, add more air pillows or protective film.

See how easy it is to pack your shipments safely!

Try the Pakful Air Cushion System — visit Pakful.lv and choose the best solution for your packaging needs.