FedEx packing made easy
Here are quick links to some of our most popular packing resources:
*Free packaging is not for use with FedEx Ground or FedEx Home Delivery services.
Explore packing basics, how-to
guides, and packaging options
Explore packing basics, how-to guides, and packaging options
When you trust us with your package, we take it seriously. That’s one reason we’re
giving you tools and resources to make packing and shipping easier. Plus, properly
packing items can help reduce damage during transit.
When you trust us with your package, we take it seriously. That’s one reason we’re giving you tools and resources to make packing and shipping easier. Plus, properly packing items can help reduce damage during transit.
Here’s what you’ll find on this page:
Watch how-to-pack videos
See packing tips that can reduce damage during transit. And get help choosing the right materials.
See how to pack a FedEx shipment
See a step-by-step demo for packing items and labeling your package.
Get packing tips from the experts
In this video, get expert packing advice from the FedEx Packaging Lab.
Reduce waste with sustainable packaging
Explore reusable packaging and why it’s a responsible choice for shipping.
Find the right packaging for your shipment
Watch and learn about all the packaging options available for your shipments.
Get step-by-step packing guides
Whether you’re shipping documents in an envelope or equipment on a pallet, our
guides can help you get the job done.
Whether you’re shipping documents in an envelope or equipment on a pallet, our guides can help you get the job done.
Custom packing solutions for specialty items
From time to time, you may need a little extra help with certain items. We’ve got you covered with guidance for shipping almost anything—from bicycles and breakables to furniture and flowers.
Enhance shipping with advanced
resources and support
Enhance shipping with advanced resources and support
Once you know how to prep your package, take shipping to the next level. Explore
ways to improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability of your packaging.
Once you know how to prep your package, take shipping to the next level. Explore ways to improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability of your packaging.
Put your packing to the
test
Put your packing to the test
Take steps to reduce damage and create better unboxing experiences. The FedEx Packaging Lab provides testing services to our commercial customers.
Pack shipments more responsibly
Learn about sustainable shipping supplies and reusable packaging options. Plus, discover ways to recycle your shipping materials.
Understand dimensional weight
Most lightweight shipment rates are determined by their dimensional weight. Learn how to calculate dim weight, reduce it, and save on shipping costs.
Expert advice for choosing your packaging
Read six tips from a packaging engineer at the FedEx Packaging Lab.
After packing, get your package
ready to ship
After packing, get your package ready to ship
Once you prep your items, it’s time to get them on the way to their recipient. Good
news—there’s help to guide you through every step.
Once you prep your items, it’s time to get them on the way to their recipient. Good news—there’s help to guide you through every step.
See the steps to ship a package
Learn how to create shipping labels
Make plans for a package pickup
Find your nearest drop off location
Discover how to return unwanted items
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Get even more answers to your packing questions.
FedEx envelopes and boxes are free for expedited services only. They cannot be used for FedEx Ground or FedEx Home Delivery services.
Examples of specialty items include perishable goods, high-value items like electronics or jewelry, hazardous materials, and oversized or oddly shaped items like bikes, breakables, computers, golf clubs, and more. Specialty items require extra care during packing and shipping. Check out our how-to-pack guides to help keep items safe during transit.
Protecting your items starts with careful packing. And cushioning your items is key. For more help, check out our quick-reference packing guide. And the FedEx Packaging Lab offers free package testing for business shippers.
Your box should be large enough to hold your item and allow for 2" to 3" of cushioning on all six sides. FedEx has many sizes of boxes available for purchase—including boxes designed for shipping specialty items.
Use pressure-sensitive plastic tape, water-activated paper tape, or water-activated reinforced tape that is at least 3" wide. Apply tape evenly across flaps and seams to the outer box’s top and bottom. Use the H taping method.
Start by carefully packing your items for a safe and secure delivery. Then, take time to understand declared value—the amount needed to repair or replace items.
Yes, provided that your box is sturdy and has not been crushed, torn, punctured, or otherwise damaged.
Yes, every package needs a label. Create a printable shipping label from your computer with FedEx Ship Manager®. Don’t have a printer? Use the FedEx® Mobile app to create your label. It will generate a barcode you can take to the nearest FedEx location where a team member will scan the code and print your label.
Arrange deliveries when someone is home and require a signature, especially for valuable items. You can also request a package hold at a retail location. Stay informed with delivery alerts, request discreet packaging for high-value items, and consider shipping insurance for added protection.
Place shipping labels on your package’s largest surface. While we can’t ensure compliance with markings like “Up” arrows or “This End Up,” correctly placing the shipping label increases your chance for the preferred orientation.