Packaging & wrapping guidelines: what you can send, how to pack it, and what paperwork you need for international shipments.
It's important to package your goods correctly to minimise the risk of damage in transit. We offer a palletisation service to help with this, and our specialised and experienced freight team are always willing to give advice on packaging.
Greater volumes almost always mean cheaper delivery when shipping goods internationally — especially with sea freight. The greater the volume of your goods, the more economical your freight costs will be.
This guide is intended as a reference. We always recommend checking the restrictions of your chosen carrier and the relevant customs authority at the destination country, as each country has different rules. If you're ever in doubt, contact our team before sending.
By accepting a parcel, Senu Shipping and our courier partners do not confirm or acknowledge that the contents are acceptable. Sending a prohibited or undeclared hazardous item can result in the parcel being destroyed, held by customs, fines, or prosecution.
Will not be accepted on any service, under any circumstances
Will not be accepted on any service
Accepted only under specific conditions
Can be sent, but not covered against loss or damage
These must never be shipped on any service. If found in a consignment, items will be destroyed and a fine may apply.
Chemical products carry GHS hazard pictograms. If a product shows any of these symbols it must not be included: exploding bomb, flame, flame over circle, gas cylinder, corrosion, skull & crossbones, exclamation mark, health hazard, or dead tree and fish. If reusing a box, remove any old hazard labels or UN numbers — your parcel can be held even if the old label is covered up.
Not accepted on any service.
If an item isn't listed but you're unsure, check with gov.uk or ask us before sending — don't guess.
These can be shipped only with the right paperwork, packaging, or service.
These can be sent, but we offer no standard loss or damage cover for them.
Use a sturdy corrugated cardboard box roughly 10–25% larger than your item. A reused box is fine if structurally sound — remove all old labels, barcodes, and hazard symbols first.
Wrap items and fill empty space with bubble wrap, packing paper, or foam. For fragile items use at least 3 inches of cushioning and consider double-boxing (box-in-a-box).
Use proper parcel tape (not sticky tape, masking tape, or string) across all seams, with extra reinforcement along the bottom seam where weight concentrates.
Seal containers, wrap in a plastic bag, then pack upright with absorbent material around them in case of leaks. Remember these ship at owner's risk.
Keep batteries installed in the device — loose batteries are Dangerous & Hazardous. Glass and screens ship at owner's risk; pad heavily and box-in-box where possible.
Write delivery and return addresses clearly. Remove or cover all old labels and barcodes from reused boxes. Add "Fragile" or "This Way Up" markings where relevant.
Any parcel travelling in or out of the UK needs a customs declaration. Fill in contents, value, and sender/recipient details accurately in English — missing or incorrect forms are one of the most common causes of delays.
For parcels up to 2kg and valued under £270. A simple sticker form attached to the outside.
For parcels over 2kg or valued over £270. A more detailed form attached in a clear pouch on the outside.
Download the full packaging guide as a PDF for your records.
Download PDF Guide Hazardous Goods List (PDF)
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