Mobile phone packaging guide
To package a mobile phone for shipping, place it in a right-sized cardboard box using its original manufacturer box or bubble wrap, fill any void with polystyrene chips or dividers, seal the box with strong parcel tape, then weigh and measure it before attaching your printed labels. This guide walks through every step so your phone, tablet or laptop arrives safely and clears customs without delay.
Who this guide is for
This guide is for anyone sending a mobile phone, tablet or laptop with Impact Express, whether to a UK address or overseas. Devices that contain lithium batteries must be packaged carefully, and good packaging is the single biggest thing you can do to avoid damage in transit and a smooth customs clearance.
What you will need
- A printer to print your emailed labels
- A durable cardboard box
- Strong parcel tape
- Box fillers such as polystyrene chips or dividers
- Protective materials such as the original manufacturer box or bubble wrap
How to package a mobile phone for shipping, step by step
- Choose a right-sized box. Pick a durable cardboard box that fits the device snugly without being so tight that there is no room for protection.
- Protect the device. Use the original manufacturer box where you have it, or wrap the phone in bubble wrap so it is fully cushioned on all sides.
- Fill the void. Fill any empty space in the box with polystyrene chips or dividers so the device cannot move around during transit.
- Seal the box. Close and seal the box securely with strong parcel tape across all openings.
- Weigh and measure after sealing. Once the box is sealed, weigh it and measure its dimensions, because these final figures are what you use to book and price the shipment.
- Print and attach your labels. Print the labels we email you and attach them to the most visible surface of the box.
- Add a backup address. Handwrite the delivery address and your contact number as a sender on the box as a backup in case the label is damaged.
- Hand it over. Drop the parcel at your nearest DHL Service Point, or book a DHL collection within a 1 to 4 hour window and hand the archive label to the driver.
- Track it. Follow your parcel through our online portal using the airway bill number until it is delivered.
Why careful packaging matters for phones
Mobile phones, tablets and laptops contain lithium batteries, which is why many couriers will not carry them. As a dangerous goods certified courier, Impact Express can, and correct packaging keeps the device safe and compliant. The battery must always remain inside the phone it is intended to power. For more on lithium battery shipments, see our dangerous goods service.
Where you can send your phone
Once packaged, you can send your device through our wider mobile phone services, including dedicated routes to India, China, the Philippines and Thailand.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best box to use for posting a mobile phone?
Use a durable, right-sized cardboard box that fits the device snugly but still leaves room for protection. The box needs to be strong enough to take the original manufacturer box or bubble wrap plus void fill around the phone.
Do I need to remove the battery before shipping a phone?
No. The lithium battery must remain inside the phone it is intended to power. Removing or shipping loose batteries is not permitted, which is why the device should be packaged with the battery in place.
When should I weigh and measure the parcel?
Weigh and measure the parcel after you have sealed it. The final sealed weight and dimensions are the figures you use to book and price the shipment accurately.
Where do I put the shipping label?
Print the labels we email you and attach them to the most visible surface of the box. As a backup, handwrite the delivery address and your contact number as the sender in case the printed label is damaged in transit.
How do I hand the parcel over once it is packaged?
You can drop it at your nearest DHL Service Point or book a DHL collection within a 1 to 4 hour window. If a courier collects, hand the archive label to the driver, then track the parcel through our online portal using the airway bill number.
Packed and ready to send? Get an instant quote or call our team on 01753 683700.
Other useful information
*Impact Express are not liable for any damages or lost goods.
*Reusing a cardboard box
- Previous labels to be removed
- Must be in a good condition to reuse
*Labels stating “Fragile” and “This way up” can be placed on exterior cardboard boxes, we advise to appropriately pack and wrap goods as damage may occur.
*All materials listed above can be purchased at your local post office, or stationary store.
*Be aware that Impact Express has a strict prohibited items list. Visit our prohibited items page by clicking here.