Damage caused during transit is the culprit of a number of issues outside of product loss.
Customer service representatives must be available to field the calls regarding damaged items. The product must be replaced for the end user. And research must go into preventing future problems from occurring (possibly resulting in modifications throughout the packaging logistics chain).
Here are some tips from top experts on how to prevent damage during transit:
Staples
Start by selecting the right size box or container for the package. Items must have breathing room in the box to absorb the shock from being moved and hauled during transit and delivery. Once in the box, the extra space must be filled with packaging materials depending on the structural and fragility needs of the package (paper, bubble, peanuts, etc.).
UPS
When possible, pack your products in a new box to avoid loss of the protection qualities that may be lost with a used box. Pay close attention to weight limits that are marked on many shipping containers. If there are multiple items in the box, be sure to wrap each item separately, especially if the items are prone to damage (such as glass or ceramic). UPS recommends leaving two inches of cushioning between the item and the walls of the box. When it comes time for shipping, be sure to use appropriate labels and shipping markings.
https://www.ups.com/content/us/en/resources/ship/packaging/guidelines/how_to2.html
FedEx
FedEx provides a helpful How to Pack PDF in their packaging tips area. Evaluate packaging size and weight restrictions in comparison with your items. If you are dealing with a package that is light compared to its volume, be sure to reference dim weight restrictions. If you are shipping liquids or other sensitive products, reference restriction guides that are provided by your freight company. Incase a package is not sent to the correct place, be sure to include enough information for the package to be returned to you and remove any old labels from the outer packaging. The PDF also includes graphic illustrations to reference for general packaging methods (such as box-in-box or single-box).
https://images.fedex.com/downloads/shared/packagingtips/howtopack.pdf
MJS Packaging
E-commerce businesses rely heavily on effective product packing and shipping. With e-commerce on the rise, more and more lessons are being learned on what works and what doesn’t work. For spray bottles, it is recommended to include the sprayer separately and incorporate a foil seal line cap for protection against spilling. The same protection is useful for other liquids. Powders are even more vulnerable, so a double seal lid is highly recommended to prevent contents from sifting out.
http://www.mjspackaging.com/blog/ecommerce-product-packaging-tips/
DHL
Many packages travel for thousands of miles before arriving at their individual destinations. Assess your items weight, cost, regulations, and fragility before making decisions on the type of packaging to use to protect your items. Also consider temperature needs and electronic sensitivities. Make sure to avoid using kraft paper tape, cellophane tape, or string when sealing your packages, and instead use brown plastic tape, electrical tape, or duct tape as a pressure-sensitive alternative.
http://www.dhl.com/en/express/shipping/shipping_advice/packaging_advice.html
Packaging Digest
Choosing the right adhesive in labeling and packaging procedures is critical to shipping and transit success. It will keep your products safe and ensure that the end user can easily access the desired goods. Consider both the bond strength and the user experience – while durability is a top priority, you also don’t want to cause frustration by using an adhesive that is impenetrable, causing frustration. The pattern and placement of the adhesive will also ensure that the package stays in tact and cause less waste in the long term.
http://www.packagingdigest.com/adhesives/top-3-adhesive-tips-ecommerce-packaging
