Using a box that's too large or too small may damage the item during delivery

• To make sure you have enough room for packaging material, use a box that's just slightly larger than your item.

Forgetting or not using enough packaging material may damage the item during delivery

• Use bubble wrap, raffia, peanuts, foam, or paper all around the item.

• Before taping the box shut, close and shake the box first. If the item shifts, add more packaging material. Not only does this protect the item, it also lets the buyer know you invested in safe delivery.

Using weak or not enough tape to seal a box may cause it to open accidentally during delivery

• Tape the opening of the box and reinforce all seams.

• Use clear or brown packaging tape, reinforced packaging tape, or paper tape that is at least 2 inches wide.

• Don't use masking tape, cellophane tape, cord, string, or twine because it's usually not strong enough.

Unclear, incomplete, or the wrong name and address can delay delivery

• Double-check the postal address.

• Properly label the package.

• Include your return address.

• If you're reusing a box, cover any previous labels or cross out any old and unnecessary information with a thick black marker.

Bare metals

• Completely taping the address label flat against the item. Don't use tags attached with string.

• Covering sharp or protruding edges with taped-on, corrugated cardboard pieces.

Fabric and wallpaper

• Posting rolled goods in corrugated boxes.

• If a fabric roll is posted in a bag, making sure the bag is tightly wrapped and taping it to reduce the risk of tearing.

• Placing duplicate labels in the core of the roll or between the top layers of material.

Tires

• Applying a wide band of pressure-sensitive tape through the centre and completely around the body of the tire so that the tape overlaps.

• Attaching an address label to the tape band where it covers the tread, and covering it with clear tape.

Labels

• Going through PayPal to print Royal Mail or Parcelforce address and postage labels for your package.