A successful shipment starts with the right packaging.
Even the most reliable carrier can’t protect a poorly packed box. Choosing the correct box type, cushioning, and sealing materials determines whether your package arrives safely or ends up damaged in transit.
At Pack It Up Cibolo, we’ve seen every kind of package—from small local mailers to large freight shipments—and we know exactly which materials work best for FedEx shipping. This guide will walk you through the essential packing supplies, what to avoid, and how to pack like a professional.
1. Start with the Right Box Type
FedEx-approved boxes are tested for durability, compression resistance, and edge crush strength. Using the right one ensures your shipment can withstand handling, stacking, and long-distance travel.
Recommended Box Types:
- Single-wall corrugated boxes: Ideal for lightweight items (under 10 lbs).
- Double-wall corrugated boxes: Best for heavy or fragile items like glass, ceramics, and electronics.
- FedEx Express packaging: Pre-tested boxes and envelopes for documents or small items.
- Custom boxes: Perfect for irregularly shaped or oversized items.
Avoid reusing boxes with weak corners or torn flaps. They can collapse or tear, especially under stacking pressure.
Pack It Up Cibolo offers new FedEx-certified boxes in multiple sizes, ensuring your shipment meets all carrier standards.
2. Understand Box Strength Ratings
Boxes have printed burst strength or edge crush test (ECT) ratings that indicate durability.
- 32 ECT: For shipments up to 30 lbs (lightweight items).
- 44 ECT: For medium-weight or moderately fragile items.
- 48–51 ECT: For heavy or high-value contents requiring stronger walls.
Choosing the right strength keeps your items secure and prevents collapse when stacked in trucks or warehouses.
When in doubt, ask our staff—we’ll recommend the best box for your shipment’s weight and contents.
3. Use Proper Cushioning Materials
The space inside your box is just as important as the box itself.
Cushioning absorbs shock, vibration, and compression during transit.
Best Cushioning Options:
- Bubble Wrap: Excellent for glass, electronics, and delicate items.
- Air Pillows: Lightweight protection for larger boxes.
- Packing Peanuts: Fill voids around irregular items; eco-friendly versions available.
- Foam Sheets or Inserts: Ideal for framed artwork, instruments, or fragile collectibles.
- Kraft Paper: A recyclable option for light-to-medium protection.
Avoid: towels, clothing, or newspaper. These shift, flatten, and provide inconsistent protection.
At Pack It Up Cibolo, we stock every type of FedEx-approved cushioning material, so your package is properly protected from start to finish.
4. Seal Your Boxes the Right Way
Sealing boxes may seem simple, but improper tape or technique can lead to shipment failure.
FedEx Guidelines:
- Use pressure-sensitive shipping tape, 2 inches wide or more.
- Apply tape in an “H” pattern—one strip down the center seam and one across each edge.
- Reinforce bottom flaps and seams.
- Avoid masking, duct, or scotch tape—they don’t hold up under temperature changes or pressure.
Our team at Pack It Up Cibolo uses heavy-duty, tamper-resistant tape that meets FedEx standards for long-haul durability.
5. Double-Box for Fragile Shipments
For delicate or valuable items, double-boxing adds an extra layer of safety.
How to Double-Box Properly:
- Wrap each item with bubble wrap or foam.
- Place the wrapped item in a smaller inner box with at least two inches of cushioning.
- Place that box inside a larger outer box, again adding two inches of cushioning all around.
- Seal both boxes using the H-taping method.
This method reduces impact risk, absorbs vibration, and qualifies fragile shipments for declared value protection under FedEx policies.
6. Use the Right Labeling Supplies
Once your box is sealed, labeling it correctly ensures smooth processing through FedEx’s automated system.
Best Practices:
- Use printed labels for clarity and barcode readability.
- Avoid placing labels over seams or tape.
- If handwriting, print legibly with a permanent marker.
- Cover labels with clear tape or use a label pouch.
- Include a backup label or note inside the box with sender and recipient details.
When you ship through Pack It Up Cibolo, we print and verify your labels in-store to eliminate scanning issues.
7. Specialty Packing Materials for Unique Items
Certain items require more specialized packaging for safety or compliance:
| Item Type | Recommended Material |
| Electronics | Anti-static bubble wrap + foam inserts |
| Glass or Ceramics | Double box + padded dividers |
| Artwork | Corner protectors + flat boxes + foam |
| Jewelry or Small Valuables | Padded boxes + tamper-evident seal |
| Documents | FedEx Express envelope or tube |
We maintain a full inventory of these specialty materials at Pack It Up Cibolo, along with professional packing services to ensure compliance with FedEx guidelines.
8. FedEx Packaging Provided at No Cost
For certain services, FedEx offers free packaging when you ship via FedEx Express:
- FedEx envelopes, paks, tubes, and small boxes are available at no extra charge.
- These are designed for lightweight items under specific dimensions.
- Using official FedEx packaging can sometimes lower rates or qualify you for faster processing.
Ask us which options apply to your shipment before you pack—we’ll help you save time and money.
9. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Options
More customers are seeking environmentally responsible packaging.
Pack It Up Cibolo proudly offers recyclable boxes, biodegradable packing peanuts, and paper-based tape options.
We also encourage reusing undamaged boxes for non-commercial shipments, provided they meet structural integrity standards.
FedEx’s sustainability goals align with ours—reducing waste, promoting recycling, and helping customers ship smarter with eco-conscious materials.
10. Why Customers Trust Pack It Up Cibolo for Packing and Shipping
When you ship with Pack It Up Cibolo, you’re not just buying a box—you’re getting professional guidance, FedEx-certified materials, and complete peace of mind.
We help you:
- Select the best box for your shipment type and weight.
- Professionally pack fragile or high-value items.
- Print and attach FedEx-approved labels.
- Choose declared value coverage and tracking options.
- Meet every FedEx packaging requirement for insurance eligibility.
Whether you’re shipping across town or around the world, our team ensures your package is packed to arrive safely—every time.
Learn more at https://packitupcibolo.com/pack-ship/#fedex_shipping.
Visit or Contact Us
Pack It Up Cibolo
232 Brite Rd Ste 109
Cibolo, TX 78108
Phone: (210) 255-8547
Fax: (210) 255-8577
Email: packitupshipandprint@gmail.com
Hours: Mon–Fri 9 AM–6 PM | Sat 9 AM-1 PM | Closed Sunday
Website: https://packitupcibolo.com/pack-ship/#fedex_shipping
The difference between a safe shipment and a damaged one often comes down to the materials you use. The right box, cushioning, and tape ensure your package travels securely through FedEx’s global network.
At Pack It Up Cibolo, we provide every tool, material, and bit of expertise you need to ship with confidence. Stop by our Cibolo location today for professional packing, or let us handle the entire process from start to finish—so you can relax knowing your package will arrive safe, sound, and on time.