Professional Packing Guidelines
Proper packing is the single most important factor in ensuring your goods arrive safely. International shipping involves multiple touchpoints—trucks, planes, warehouses, and customs. Your packaging must withstand the journey.
The 3 Layers of Protection
To protect against impact, vibration, and compression, every shipment must follow these three principles.
1. The Outer Shell
Use Double-Walled Boxes. Single-layer boxes (like crisp boxes) will crush under the weight of other cargo. Your box must be rigid and free of holes or tears.
2. Internal Cushioning
No Gaps Allowed. If you shake the box and hear movement, it's not packed right. Fill all empty spaces with bubble wrap, foam, or crumpled paper to prevent shifting.
3. Secure Sealing
The H-Tape Method. Use strong parcel tape (at least 48mm wide). Tape along the center seam and both edge seams on the top and bottom. Do not use scotch tape or string.
Pro Tip
Original Packaging is Best
Item-Specific Advice
TVs & Electronics
Flat-screen TVs are extremely fragile. They must be shipped in their original box with the original styrofoam inserts. If you do not have the box, we highly recommend our wooden crating service. Bubble wrap alone is not enough for a screen.
Liquids & Creams
Changes in cabin pressure can cause leaks. Tape all lids shut. Place bottles inside a sealed plastic bag (Ziploc) before putting them in the box. This prevents a leak from ruining your entire shipment.
Dry Foodstuff
Ensure all food is completely dry (e.g., fish, crayfish). Use airtight plastic containers or heavy-duty nylon bags. Strong-smelling items must be triple-sealed to avoid contaminating other luggage on the flight.
Prohibited Packing Materials
Using these materials puts your shipment at high risk of damage or rejection.
Laundry/Ghana Bags
They rip easily on conveyor belts.
Bin Liners
Zero protection. Often mistaken for trash.
Crisp/Shoe Boxes
Too weak for international transit.
String/Rope
Gets caught in machinery. Use tape.
Don't have time to pack?
Let the experts handle it. Africargo Worldwide offers a professional packing service. We supply export-grade boxes, bubble wrap, and crating for fragile items at our depot.
- Professional Crating
- Palletizing
- Shrink Wrapping
Packing FAQ
Can I lock my suitcase?
If you ship a suitcase, do not lock it unless you use a TSA-approved lock. Customs may need to inspect the contents. If it is locked with a standard lock, they may break it open.
How do I label my box?
Write the Recipient's Name, Nigerian Phone Number, and Destination City clearly on at least TWO sides of the box using a permanent marker. Also, stick a label inside the box just in case.
Will you repack my items if they are unsafe?
Yes. If our team determines your packaging is insufficient for air/sea travel, we will advise you. We can repack it for a fee to ensure it remains insurable.