Getting goods to customers unscathed is essential. Failure to do so can have a negative impact on everything from costs and returns to wasted products, brand reputation and customer loyalty.

While shipping most goods is straightforward, some delicate, fragile, or sensitive products may need extra care and attention before – and during – transportation. Those needs can vary widely depending on the product – for example, a glass vase might need to be treated very differently to the way a pharmaceutical product would. Similarly, products that are susceptible to environmental conditions, such as cut flowers, would also have specific shipping needs.

So, how do you ensure you deliver on your promises and get goods to customers in perfect condition, especially when shipping cross-border? Follow this masterclass to learn more.

A good place to start is to assess the requirements, thinking from the perspectives of your products, your customers, and your business.

• For your products, that could include understanding the conditions they need to be packed and shipped in – ranging from any additional cushioning needs to time-sensitivity or temperature conditions.
• For your customers, think about their needs. How – and when – will they want their items to be delivered? For example, if they are fresh or temperature-sensitive, will they prioritise speed? Or, if they have a busy schedule, might they want the flexibility to arrange the delivery to ensure they can receive it in person? Similarly, if goods are very valuable as well as fragile, will customers want greater levels of security? It’s also worth considering whether customers might need to supply any additional information in advance so their shipment crosses borders smoothly.
• For your business, particularly if you’re shipping delicate goods for the first time, it might be worth considering if you should alter any established warehouse processes, or whether you need any specialist equipment. Or do your staff need additional training to help them with the increased demands of shipping delicate goods?

It’s important you are aware of any regulations that could impact your product before you ship. For example, depending on your goods you may need to comply with sanitary and phytosanitary regulations in your destination market. But you should also be aware of the regulations and guidelines imposed by carriers, including what goods can’t be shipped and any specific requirements for those that can.

Delicate goods, by their very nature, will likely have certain packaging requirements to keep them safe and secure. These will depend on the product, but it may be helpful to follow some best practice guidance, such as:

• Select a box that is rigid, sturdy, and just slightly bigger than the product – enough to allow extra cushioning and protection while minimising the risk of movement during transit. Wrap the item carefully with bubble wrap, place it in the box and fill any gaps with additional protection so it fits tightly. Tape the box closed using the H-taping method (where it is taped in an H shape) so that all seams are covered, and label it as fragile so carriers understand the need to be careful. A “This way up” label may also be useful.
• If your goods need to be kept cool, think about the most appropriate way to do this. Gel packs and dry ice are both options for certain products, while special packaging that keeps products cool is also available.
• It’s a good idea to use a new box, as older boxes can lose durability over time. But if you are shipping in a box that has been used before, make sure you remove any old labels before attaching new ones.

Delicate goods may require specialist handling or transportation, or perhaps just a bit more care being taken in transit. Some goods may even benefit from specialist transport solutions, which can give you peace of mind throughout the delivery process.

Whatever delicate goods you are shipping, here are four things to consider when arranging transportation.

Safety: Think about how your goods need to be transported in order for them to stay safe or unbroken, and whether your carrier can accommodate those needs.

Speed: Do your goods require express shipping to meet the delivery needs of your customer or the quality requirements of your product? Understanding the requirements first makes it easier to put the best transport solution in place.

Tracking: How important is it to monitor the delivery closely? For example, do your customers need to know exactly when a shipment is arriving? Do they need tracking options during the delivery?

Temperature: Can your goods be shipped in standard transportation or will you need temperature-controlled options to ensure the goods reach their destination in perfect condition?

Customs delays are never welcome but for some delicate goods that need to be shipped quickly they can be more of a concern. Getting ahead of the requirements will put you in a stronger position.

• Ensure all documentation is completed correctly, including Harmonised System codes, detailed goods descriptions, and accurate valuations. It’s also a good idea to include a packing list if appropriate.
• Research whether your goods will require additional licenses or certificates when crossing international borders. If so, ensure these are obtained in advance and supplied promptly.
• Don’t make assumptions. Each country has its own set of regulations and documents required when certain goods cross the border. Check the rules for each market you ship to.