Getting the best box for international shipping
TYPES OF BOXES
Choosing the right materials for boxed packaged goods
Boxes for shipping or moving overseas vary in terms of material and strength. It is important to choose the right transporting box when preparing boxed packaged goods. The right box material will depend on what you are shipping nationally or internationally.
- Single wall corrugated box – the most common corrugated cardboard boxes. Ideal for light or small shipments, such as books and clothing.
- Double or triple wall corrugated box – thicker and stronger corrugated boxes, ideal for providing extra protection. Recommended for heavier shipments.
- Bottle boxes – specially shaped boxes designed to protect bottles and prevent any movement during transport. It is advisable to place these boxes inside a second box for better protection.
- Wooden crates – wooden crates and boxes offer greater protection due to their rigid surface. However, they should be shipped on a pallet due to their heavier weight.
- Plastic boxes – rigid plastic boxes are easily damaged by impact or high pressure and therefore should not be used as external packaging for shipping.
BUYING BOXES
Where to buy different types of boxes for shipping or moving
You can get corrugated cardboard boxes and other types of shipping boxes in various stores and also online. It is possible to reuse cardboard boxes for shipping in Europe or overseas as long as they are still in good condition. Below is a list of where you can buy boxes for shipping or moving internationally:
- Hardware stores – corrugated cardboard boxes for shipping
- DIY stores (such as B&Q, Hunts of Marlow, The Range, Pickels, Homebase, Toolstation, Moles) – heavy-duty cardboard boxes and other types of shipping boxes
- Stationery stores – various types of shipping boxes depending on availability
- Post office – boxes for sending by post or courier
- Supermarkets and general stores – used cardboard boxes
- Amazon and other online stores – all types of shipping boxes
Stores that sell boxes for international shipping in Europe
Check the list of stores where you can buy cardboard corrugated boxes for shipping in Europe or overseas.
HOW TO SHIP
Courier services for shipping boxes internationally
PACKING GUIDELINES
How to pack a corrugated cardboard box for shipping or moving
Follow these instructions for packing your shipping boxes safely when preparing boxed packaged goods:
Choose the right box
Corrugated cardboard boxes are the best choice when shipping internationally. The box should be slightly bigger than the item.
Internal cushioning
Insert foam padding and packing peanuts to fill up empty spaces inside the transporting box. This will prevent the contents from moving.
Seal the box
Apply at least three strips of tape evenly and cover all flaps and seams on the top and bottom. Use straps for larger boxes.
Attach the label
Remove old labels. Stick the label on a flat surface on top of the transporting box, so that the courier can scan the barcode easily.
Measure your boxes after you have packed them and use our size checker tool to see which type of service fits best for your shipment.
What are the maximum box sizes for shipping in Europe or overseas?
The maximum weight and dimensions for boxed packaged goods will depend on the type of service and the courier selected. Check the the shipping box sizes below for each of our package services:
Regular
Weight: up to 30 kg (40 kg on some routes)
Maximum length: 175 cm
Length (in cm) + 2x width (in cm) + 2x height (in cm) less than 300 cm
Priority
Weight: up to 70 kg
Dimensions: Maximum length of one side up to 240 cm
Express
Weight: up to 70 kg
Maximum size: 300 cm (a single dimension cannot exceed 120 cm)
Check our guides
Packaging guidelines for other types of shipments:
Get the price for transporting your boxes
NEED MORE INFORMATION?
FAQ on shipping internationally with different types of boxes
What is the difference between shipping vs moving vs packing boxes?
- Shipping boxes are used for sending parcels by postal or courier service.
- Moving boxes are used for transporting personal belongings during a local or international relocation.
- Packing boxes are used for general storage or shipping internationally.