Pass the parcel
26 Feb 2025
At InPost, we love a good game of ‘Pass the Parcel,’ and by that, we mean passing packaging along for another journey. Here’s how you can reuse your old packaging responsibly while ensuring your parcels stay safe, secure, and ready for their next adventure.
First things first: know the rules of the game
Before you send a parcel, make sure it meets InPost’s size and weight limits - no larger than 410mm x 380mm x 640mm and no heavier than 15kg. Now, let’s talk about making your packaging go the extra mile.
What sizes are the compartments?
Extra small lockers (4cm x 23cm x 40cm) – Suits envelopes or bite-sized parcels (please note that not all our lockers have XS compartments)
Small lockers (8cm x 38cm x 64cm) – Perfect for items like sunglasses or small accessories
Medium lockers (19cm x 38cm x 64cm) – Great for shoes, cookbooks, or handbags
Large lockers (41cm x 38cm x 64cm) – Ideal for boots, sports equipment, or bulkier items
How to reuse packaging the right way
✅ Pick strong, sturdy boxes
Reusing is great - but only if the box is up for the challenge! Check that your box is in good shape, with no tears, dents, or signs of wear and tear. Flimsy boxes might not survive another trip.
✅ Remove old labels and stickers
Nothing confuses a courier (or a sorting machine) more than multiple addresses. Before reusing a box, always peel off old labels to ensure your parcel doesn’t take an unexpected detour. Or simply use a pen to cover any unwanted information.
✅ Reinforce with strong tape or straps
Even if your box is in good condition, it might have lost some of its strength. You can use high-quality packing tape or strapping to give it extra support.
✅ Use quality cushioning
Bubble wrap, crumpled paper, or biodegradable packing peanuts are your best friends when it comes to keeping items safe. If you’re reusing padding, just make sure it’s still effective and clean.
✅ Choose corrugated cardboard
If you’re sending something fragile or valuable, double-check that your box is made of corrugated cardboard with strong outer liners. A little extra durability goes a long way!
✅ Use dividers for fragile items
Flat, fragile items like vinyl records or glassware? Cardboard dividers help keep them from clashing together in transit.
🚫 Avoid these packaging pitfalls
❌ Labels like ‘fragile’ aren’t a magic fix
Slapping a “Handle with Care” sticker on your box won’t prevent damage. Proper packaging is what really matters!
❌ No fabric or cloth bags
They may be stylish, but they won’t protect your items. Always go for solid packaging.
❌ Don’t use round tubes for rolled paper
They tend to roll around during shipping, which makes them tricky to handle. Instead, opt for triangular mailing tubes – they are much more stable!
❌ Don’t send in pretty but weak packaging
We get it some products come in attractive boxes, but that doesn’t mean they’re shipping-ready. If the original packaging isn’t sturdy enough, place it inside a stronger outer box.
