Support Material

Packaging Hints - A Simple Checklist

What are you sending?

 

Before sending any item, consider the size, weight and fragility of the article. This will help determine the appropriate packaging to use.

Breakable articles need special care, especially when packing several items. These will require protection from each other as well as external forces.

 

Should it be sent through the mail?

 

If an item is flammable, radioactive, explosive, corrosive, an oxidising material, a compressed gas (such as aerosol can) or likely to deteriorate during its journey through the post, then you shouldn’t be lodging these products at Post offices or street posting boxes.

 

Many countries have restrictions on certain items such as medical samples and alcoholic beverages. If in doubt please read the Dangerous Goods Brochure available at your Australia Post outlet or check with Australia Post staff.

 

Pick & Pack

 

Choose the right packaging with the versatile range of Postpak products. Specially developed to be strong and lightweight the range includes: Tough Bags, Padded Bags, Mailing Boxes, Mailing Tubes and Special Purpose Products, your Post outlet can accommodate most mailing requirements.

 

Special tips for special items

 

Many articles require protection when being mailed.

Liquids – Items containing liquid should be surrounded by absorbent paper, placed in a sealed bag and bubble wrapped. Ensure glass items are adequately protected by strong outer packaging such as Postpak Mailing Boxes and WINEpaks.

 

Sharp objects - Should be packed to prevent edges cutting through outer packaging, which should always be of rigid construction. Suitable guards, including cork, are recommended for sharp ends.

 

Small heavy metal objects - Are best enclosed in a suitable cushioning material before final wrapping.

 

Standard sized batteries - Must be removed from the article being sent, wrapped individually (if not in original package) and have no points touching each other.

 

Ointments, pastes, powders and creams - Should be placed in a sealed bag and bubble wrapped before being placed in rigid outer packaging.

 

Is compensation available for damages?

 

Compensation is generally not payable for loss or damage incurred in respect of Australia Post’s standard letter and parcels services, although an amount of up to $50 may be paid in certain circumstances.

 

These are outlined in  Australia Post’s General Postal Service Terms and Conditions. Australia Post can provide you with economical insurance coverage of up to $5,000 should you wish, although for some overseas destinations, insurance may be unavailable or limited to a sum of less than $5,000.

 

Important Notice: This information is intended to provide you with information regarding packaging and postage of articles but does not contain the full terms and conditions governing postal services provided by Australia Post. These are in the General Postal Service Terms and Conditions.