• Use a sturdy corrugated cardboard box for large or multiple items where possible
• Individually wrap items within the box with protective cushioning to absorb any impact during transit
• Use a padded envelope for smaller items
• Seal the package with parcel tape
• Clearly label the package with the recipient's full address and include the sender's return address
• Include a return postage label inside the package

Selecting Appropriate Packing Material

Pack the item with foam, polystyrene, newspaper, Bubble Wrap®, or other similar protective packaging. Make sure the item is secure and doesn't move around the box. When using foam/polystyrene peanuts, overfill the box to account for any shifting during transit.

Use Parcel Tape

Parcel tape should be at least three inches wide and is more hard-wearing and suitable for securing postal items than masking tape, Sellotape®, string or paper over-wrap.

Irregularly Shaped Items

Bare Metals: Completely tape the address label to the item. Do not use "flying tags". Cover sharp or protruding edges with padding or taped-on corrugated cardboard pieces.

Fabric and Wallpaper: Rolled goods travel best when sent in corrugated boxes. If a fabric roll is sent in a bag, make sure it is tightly sealed and taped to reduce the risk of tearing. Place duplicate labels inside or between the top layers of material.

Tyres: Apply a wide band of pressure-sensitive tape through the centre and completely around the body of the tyre so that the tape is attached to itself. Attach address label to the tape band where it covers the tread, and cover with clear tape.

Check with your carrier for special package limitations. Some carriers assess additional handling charges for:

• Any article that is not fully encased in an outside postage container.
• Any article that is encased in an outside postage container made of metal or wood.
• Cans or buckets that are not fully encased in a cardboard box.
• Irregularly shaped or oversized items.

Note: These tips are general guidelines and eBay cannot be held responsible if your item is damaged in transit.

Related Help topics

• Selling Internationally
• Sales Reports
• Managing Selling with My eBay