Labeling & Packaging Guidelines

Ensure your items arrive safely by following these best practices

Introduction

Proper packaging and labeling are essential for ensuring your products are protected during shipping and arrive at their destination on time. These guidelines will help you prepare your shipments according to MTM Logistics standards and industry best practices.

Packaging Best Practices

Choose the Right Box

Use a sturdy, corrugated box that's slightly larger than your item. Avoid using old, worn boxes as they may break during transit.

Proper Cushioning

Wrap items individually with bubble wrap, foam sheets, or packing paper. Fill empty spaces with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to prevent movement.

Seal Properly

Use strong packing tape to seal all seams of the box in an H-pattern. Avoid using masking tape or duct tape as they can lose adhesion in transit.

Special Items

Fragile, liquid, or hazardous items require special packaging. Contact us for specific guidelines based on your product type.

Labeling Requirements

Proper labeling ensures your packages are accurately sorted, tracked, and delivered to the correct destination. All packages should include:

Clear and legible shipping label with complete destination address
Return address with your business name and contact information
Product SKU or identification number
Handling instructions (e.g., 'Fragile', 'This Side Up') when applicable
Barcode or QR code for tracking (if used in your system)
Special warning labels for regulated or hazardous materials

Label Placement

Place shipping labels on the top surface of the package. Ensure the label is flat (not wrapped around edges) and not placed on a seam. Affix labels securely with clear tape, making sure not to cover any barcodes or important information.

Label Placement Example

Common Packaging Mistakes to Avoid

Common Mistake

Potential Consequence

Insufficient cushioning

Items may be damaged during transit

Using boxes that are too large

Increases shipping costs and risk of damage from movement

Poor taping technique

Box may open during transit

Illegible or incomplete labels

Shipment delays or delivery to wrong destination

Reusing old shipping labels

Confusion in delivery routing and potential return to sender

Recommended Packaging Materials

Using the right materials is essential for protecting your products during shipping. Here are our recommendations:

Outer Packaging

New, sturdy corrugated boxes
Poly mailers for soft, non-fragile items
Rigid mailers for documents and flat items
Specialty boxes for irregular shaped items

Inner Packaging

Bubble wrap for fragile items
Packing peanuts or air pillows for void fill
Foam inserts for electronics
Tissue paper for clothing or soft goods
Dividers for items that should not touch

Sustainable Packaging Options

At MTM Logistics, we encourage environmentally responsible packaging practices. Consider these sustainable alternatives:

Recycled or recyclable corrugated boxes
Biodegradable packing peanuts
Paper-based void fill instead of plastic
Compostable mailers for appropriate items
Minimizing packaging size to reduce waste

Size and Weight Guidelines

To ensure efficient handling and avoid additional charges, please adhere to these guidelines:

Maximum package weight: 30kg per package
Maximum package dimensions: 120cm x 80cm x 80cm
For heavier or larger items, please contact us for special handling arrangements

Packages exceeding these limits may incur additional handling fees or require special shipping arrangements.

Need Specific Packaging Advice?

Our logistics experts can provide tailored guidance for your specific products and shipping needs.