Use Bubble Padded envelopes for sharp edges or odd shapes
Make sure any outer containers are strong enough for their contents
Make sure fragile items don’t touch either each other, or the side of the container
Fill out containers with cushioning material like bubble-wrap or polystyrene chips
Always put a return address on the item
Put a contact name, address and telephone number inside
Seal securely tape along all edges and openings
Flatten any sharp edge from staples or metal fastenings, and cover with tape
Use a ‘FRAGILE’ sticker, if necessary

Some more item specific tips
Batteries (except lead acid batteries)
Only send batteries in their retail packaging Surround with cushioning material and place in a suitable Box
Books Small books
Bubble Padded envelope. Larger books: Cardboard Box, giving 2.5cm clearance at each end
Computer disks, audio and video cassettes, CDs and DVDs
Suitable Size Bubble Padded envelope.
Films
Seal in polythene with address details clearly visible Pack loosely in a padded envelope and seal securely
Leaflets and brochures
Up to 1cm thick: Bubble Padded envelope.
Up to 5cm thick: heavy Duty Bubble Padded envelope or Box
Liquids and creams
Seal in grip seal bag. Surround with an absorbent material like newsprint offcuts.
Magazines and newspapers
Up to 1cm thick: Bubble Padded envelope.
Up to 5cm thick: Heavy Duty Bubble Padded envelope or Box
Prints, framed
Wrap cushioning material at least 5cm think around each item. Place between thick board or polystyrene giving 2.5cm clearance at each end Pack in padded bag, corrugated paper or brown paper
Prints, unframed
Wrap in tissue paper Place in a board backed envelope marked PHOTOGRAPHS - DO NOT BEND
Records (vinyl discs)
Place between thick card and surround with cushioning material Wrap in strong paper, seal with tape and clearly mark package RECORDS - DO NOT BEND
Scissors, knives and other sharp items
Wrap and tape heavy cardboard around all sharp points and edges