International shipping is more demanding than domestic delivery. Poor packaging can lead to damaged goods, returns, customs delays, and increased shipping costs.

Effective international shipping packaging should:

• Protect products during long-distance transit

• Withstand stacking, vibration, and impact

• Comply with international shipping regulations

• Optimize weight and dimensional shipping costs

• Maintain product presentation upon arrival

Start by evaluating your product’s physical characteristics:

• Fragile items require reinforced protection and cushioning

• Heavy products need strong structural packaging

• Irregular shapes may require custom inserts or die-cut boxes

The heavier and more fragile the product, the stronger the packaging must be.

International shipments often travel by:

• Sea freight

• Air freight

• Multimodal transportation

Longer transit times increase exposure to moisture, compression, and temperature changes. Packaging must remain stable throughout the entire journey.

Customs inspections may involve opening and resealing packages. Packaging should allow for inspection without damaging the box or product.

Clear labeling and durable packaging help prevent delays and mishandling.

Corrugated boxes are the most widely used packaging solution for international shipping.

Best for:

• E-commerce shipments

• Bulk goods

• Electronics, apparel, household products

Advantages:

• Lightweight but strong

• Available in single-wall, double-wall, and triple-wall options

• Cost-effective for large volumes

• Easy to customize for size and strength

For most international shipments, double-wall corrugated boxes provide the best balance between protection and cost.

For heavy or high-value products, heavy-duty corrugated packaging is recommended.

Best for:

• Machinery parts

• Industrial components

• Glass or metal products

Advantages:

• High compression strength

• Better resistance to stacking pressure

• Reduced risk of box collapse

Rigid boxes are not commonly used as outer shipping cartons but may be used as inner packaging.

Best for:

• Luxury products shipped in protective outer cartons

• Premium retail packaging

Rigid boxes should always be placed inside a corrugated shipping box for international transport.

Choosing the right box is only part of the solution. Internal protection is equally important.

• Corrugated inserts

• Molded pulp trays

• Foam inserts

• Honeycomb paperboard

• Kraft paper cushioning

For eco-conscious brands, paper-based protective materials are preferred over plastic.

International shipments may pass through humid ports, cold cargo holds, or hot containers.

Recommended solutions include:

• Moisture-resistant corrugated board

• Inner liners or poly bag protection

• Desiccant packs for sensitive products

Protecting against moisture helps prevent mold, warping, and product damage.

Shipping costs are often calculated based on dimensional weight. Oversized or inefficient packaging can significantly increase costs.

Best practices include:

• Custom box sizing to reduce empty space

• Lightweight corrugated materials with high strength

• Avoiding unnecessary layers

Efficient packaging design reduces freight costs while maintaining protection.

Many international buyers prefer sustainable packaging solutions.

Eco-friendly options include:

• Recyclable corrugated boxes

• FSC-certified paperboard

• Plastic-free protective materials

• Minimalist packaging design

Sustainable packaging can also help brands comply with environmental regulations in Europe and North America.

• Using single-wall boxes for heavy products

• Oversized boxes with insufficient cushioning

• Ignoring moisture protection

• Choosing packaging based on cost only

• Not testing packaging before mass shipment

Packaging testing, such as drop tests and compression tests, is strongly recommended.

Working with an experienced packaging manufacturer helps ensure your international shipments are protected and cost-efficient.

A reliable supplier should offer:

• Custom box sizing

• Strength testing recommendations

• Low MOQ options for trial shipments

• Support for international shipping standards

At Better Packaging, we help businesses design custom packaging solutions tailored for international shipping, product protection, and cost efficiency.

The best packaging for international shipping balances strength, protection, cost, and sustainability. Corrugated boxes remain the most effective solution for most products, while custom inserts and moisture protection further reduce risk.

Choosing the right packaging not only protects your products—but also your brand reputation in global markets.

Need help choosing the best packaging for international shipping?
Contact Better Packaging for expert advice and custom packaging solutions designed for global delivery.