Assess overall packaging
To ensure your packaging can withstand the pressure during the delivery journey, you need to assess the overall packaging's performance first. The general rule of thumb is that the parcel must be well packed, fully sealed (edges to edges), hold firm and still when being picked up, and the item inside must not rattle or make a sound when being picked up. To take a step even further, you can also spray water on your parcel to see if the water can get through your packaging and reach your item. This is because our dedicated courier partners will deliver your parcels under whatever weather conditions may be.
If you see that your packaging is not up to par, you may want to check out our guide on how to pack your parcels properly so you can make some fixes to your packaging.
Easy-to-read consignment note
Make sure your consignment note - Air Waybill is placed on your parcel where it is easy for the couriers to read it and sort it correctly. If you are using a paper type of Air Waybill, it is better for you to stick a transparent pouch and insert the Air Waybill paper in it. This is to prevent it from tearing apart in the event that the parcel is delivered in the rain.
Perform drop-testing
Lastly, it's time for you to perform drop testing on your parcel. This is an important step as parcels in transit can face various pressures, conditions, man-faulty handling, etc. If your parcels can pass this testing, then they have a better chance to reach your receiver in perfect condition as compared to when you didn't do any testing prior to delivery.
If your parcels are not passing this test, you may want to check what materials you need to prepare for great packaging, as it will give you ideas on how to get better materials quality and learn how to pack your parcels properly before shipping.
i) Importance of Standard Drop Tests:
Quality Assurance: Ensures that packaging meets required safety and durability standards.
Product Protection: Verifies that the packaging can protect the product from damage during shipping and handling.
Regulatory Compliance: Helps manufacturers comply with international shipping and safety regulations.
Cost Reduction: Identifies weaknesses in packaging, allowing for improvements that can reduce damage-related costs.
ii) Testing Methods:
a) Free fall with parcel landing on its corners.
b) Free fall with parcel landing on its flat base.
c) Free fall with parcel landing on its flat top.
d) Free fall with parcel landing on its longest side.
e) Free fall with parcel landing on its shortest side.
Read Next: Learn how to maximise protection for your parcels.