Technology is constantly evolving, and many people are eager to obtain the latest electronics. Electronics are relatively fragile and often expensive, so it's important to understand how to safely pack and ship these products. Take a look at the following tips to properly package electronics so you can prevent costly damages and returns that can occur when shipping electronic devices.
Properly Secure Batteries For Shipping 
Most electronics require batteries or are equipped with detachable batteries for power. Although batteries such as lithium are common in many of today's electronics, these components can be a source of hazardous heat, sparks or fire if improperly packed for shipping. According to UPS, when shipping almost any type of battery, you must safeguard all terminals against short-circuiting. To do so, completely cover them with an insulating, non-conductive material or pack each battery in fully enclosed inner packaging to ensure exposed terminals are protected.
Separate Cords and Accessories
When electronics have several components, it's always good to stay organized by separating the cords and accessories. Separating and bundling the cords significantly helps the user, as well as the retailer, by:
· Creating more organized space so loose cords are not tangling with other items in the carton.
· Separated items can be labeled to make it easier for the user to identify each piece and know how they connect.
· Providing a better customer experience helps build your business's brand.
Use Effective Shipping Materials
It’s important to utilize the right shipping materials to ensure that your electronics remain safe and arrive to your customer in pristine condition. The following packing materials are effective in keeping your electronics safe and secure.
Corrugated Cartons
Corrugated cartons are different from cardboard boxes. Cardboard boxes are any type of box made from heavy paper pulp. Typical applications include cereal cartons and game boxes. Corrugated cartons are comprised of three layers of paper that includes an inside liner, an outside liner, and fluting with a ruffled shape, which runs in between the two. The corrugated fiberboard sheet is created by gluing the 3 sheets together. As a result of their design, corrugated cartons are cost-effective and, depending upon their construction, can hold a wide variety of weights, protect against moisture and are a sustainable choice. Depending on the amount of protection required, corrugate is available in a wide variety of sizes and thickness.
Void Fill/Air Pillows
Protective packing, or void fill, are important to keep items separated from each other and from the corners, sides, top and bottom of the box. It helps prevent items from moving around in the carton. Materials available include packing peanuts, and air pillows. Air pillows are an excellent interior packing material choice.
Air pillows are not only more cost-effective than packing peanuts but also provide a more effective cushion for your products. This will ensure your products make it to the customer safely and without employing polystyrene packing peanuts that many people prefer not to receive. Air pillows are environmentally friendly. The total volume of filled air pillows is just 1% of the initial size for disposal and HDPE films are easy to recycle.
Water Activated Tape
It is important to choose water-activated tape for your carton sealing application so you can keep your customers satisfied and maintain your bottom line. When shipping expensive electronics, you want a tape that will keep your products safe and will be cost-effectiveness. Water-activated tape provides these advantages because when the adhesive is activated with water, it penetrates the carton material and the tape forms a permanent bond with the carton. As a result, it creates a strong seal that is tamper-evident. Water-activated tape is available in various widths and thicknesses and may contain strands of fiberglass reinforcement to provide added strength.
Lynn Padell is Director of Marketing and Sales Support, Better Packages. Visit www.betterpackages.com for more information.
