What the packaging has to withstand
Short answer: It has to survive being thrown, pressed, made wet and stacked under other parcels. It should also open without tools and ideally be reusable for a return. Packaging is therefore a compromise between protection and simplicity.
Transport is rough
A parcel is handled many times by machines and people on the way. It has to survive a drop from a belt and knocks from the sides without damage to what is inside. That is why a thin bag is rarely enough, and why an inner and an outer layer are often used.
Moisture comes from outside
A parcel may stand in rain for a few minutes while it is unloaded or left at a door. The outer packaging has to keep the water out so the item inside stays dry. That matters most for textiles, which should not be put away wet. See bamboo pants for women in several models.
Parcels get stacked
In transport a parcel often lies under other parcels and has to carry weight on top. A box that is too weak is pressed flat, and the item inside gets pressure marks and creases. So a box is chosen that can sit at the bottom without giving way.
It must open without tools
You should not need scissors or a knife to get into the parcel. A knife can cut the item, and a parcel that is hard to open is a poor experience. That is why there is often a tear strip, so the parcel opens by hand.
It must be possible to close again
A bag with two adhesive strips can be used for the return without new packaging. The first strip closes the parcel at the shop, and the second is used if the item is sent back. Then you need no box or tape. See bamboo clothing for women and all bamboo clothing for women.
Filling holds the item in place
Paper or air cushions stop the item sliding around and rubbing against the edges. Filling also absorbs knocks, so the item is not thrown into a corner. The amount depends on weight and size, and there should be enough to hold it still without taking too much space.
The size must fit the item
A parcel that is too big gives the item room to move and costs more to send. One that is too small presses the item and makes creases. The warehouse picks the nearest size that fits and adds filling so the item lies calmly.
The return label must be visible
If you send an item back, the return label must sit visibly on the outside of the parcel. If it is hidden or unreadable, the parcel may get lost on the way. Put it on a flat area where tape or creases do not cover it, so it scans without trouble.
How to pack a return yourself
Use the original packaging if you have it, or a tight box or bag of a suitable size. Fold the item neatly and include the return form. Close the parcel well and put the label visibly on the outside. Then the item comes back safely and can be checked quickly.
Frequently asked questions
Why is there air in some parcels
The air cushions hold the item in place so it does not move and wear. They also absorb knocks, so the item is not pressed flat if the parcel is dropped on the way.
Can I use my own packaging for a return
Yes, if it is tight and the return label sits visibly on the outside. Choose a size that fits the item and close the parcel well so it survives the trip back.
Why are some parcels too big
Because the warehouse uses fixed box sizes. It is not always possible to hit the size exactly, so the nearest size up is chosen so the item is not pressed on the way.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
