Shipping Guide | GlobalExpress

Packaging Guide

Proper packaging is essential to ensure your items arrive safely. Follow these guidelines to protect your shipments.

Essential Packaging Materials

Boxes

Use new, sturdy corrugated cardboard boxes. Reused boxes must be in excellent condition with all old labels removed.

Cushioning

Use bubble wrap, foam peanuts, or packing paper. Fill all empty spaces to prevent movement during transit.

Tape

Use strong packing tape (2-inch minimum width). Apply tape to all seams and edges. Do not use duct tape or masking tape.

Pro Tips for Packaging

Double box fragile items: Wrap items individually, then place in a box with cushioning, then place that box in a larger box with more cushioning.
Use the right amount of cushioning: Items should not move when you shake the box.
Seal all openings: Apply tape to the center seam and all edges of the box.
Test your packaging: Drop the packaged item from waist height onto a hard surface. If you hear movement or impact sounds, add more cushioning.

Packaging Different Item Types

Item Type	Recommended Packaging	Special Instructions
Electronics	Original manufacturer's box with cushioning	Use anti-static materials, remove batteries
Books & Documents	Sturdy box with bubble wrap	Use moisture-resistant packaging for important documents
Glass & Ceramics	Double boxing with ample cushioning	Mark "FRAGILE" on all sides, use corner protectors
Clothing & Textiles	Poly mailers or boxes with plastic wrapping	Use waterproof packaging for valuable items
Food & Perishables	Insulated containers with cold packs	Check destination country regulations

Size & Weight Limits

Understanding size and weight limits helps ensure your shipment is accepted and priced correctly.

Package Dimensions

Measure your package in three dimensions: Length × Width × Height (in inches or centimeters).

How to Measure Your Package

Length Width Height

Length: Longest side | Width: Middle side | Height: Shortest side

Weight Categories

Document Envelopes

Up to 2.2 lbs (1 kg)

Maximum thickness: 0.75" (2 cm)

Standard Packages

Up to 70 lbs (32 kg)

Max dimensions: 108" (274 cm) combined

Freight Shipments

70+ lbs (32+ kg)

Special handling required

Quick Size Reference

Most common package sizes and their typical uses:

Size (L×W×H)	Typical Weight	Common Uses
12" × 9" × 3"	1-3 lbs	Books, small electronics, clothing
18" × 12" × 6"	3-10 lbs	Shoes, medium electronics, small appliances
24" × 18" × 12"	10-30 lbs	Large electronics, kitchenware, multiple items
36" × 24" × 24"	30-70 lbs	Large appliances, furniture parts, bulk items

Labeling & Documentation

Proper labeling ensures your package reaches its destination efficiently and safely.

Shipping Labels

Labels must be clear, complete, and securely attached. Include sender and recipient information, tracking number, and service type.

Special Labels

Use appropriate labels for fragile items, hazardous materials, temperature-sensitive goods, or high-value items.

Documentation

Complete all required forms accurately. For international shipments, include commercial invoices and customs declarations.

1

Print label on quality paper

2

Place in clear plastic sleeve

3

Attach to largest flat surface

4

Remove old labels completely

5

Include duplicate inside package

Common Labeling Mistakes to Avoid

Illegible handwriting: Always print labels or use clear block letters
Incomplete addresses: Include apartment/suite numbers, ZIP/postal codes
Incorrect placement: Don't place labels on seams or corners where they can be damaged
Missing contact information: Include phone numbers for both sender and recipient
Covered labels: Ensure labels are completely visible, not covered by tape

Service Options

Choose the right service based on your delivery needs, budget, and urgency.

Service	Delivery Time	Best For	Key Features
Same-Day	Same day	Urgent documents, emergency parts	Priority handling, real-time tracking
Next-Day	1 business day	Time-sensitive business documents	Guanteed delivery, morning delivery available
2-Day Express	2 business days	Important packages, online orders	Cost-effective express, weekend delivery
Ground Economy	3-7 business days	Non-urgent shipments, budget shipping	Most economical, reliable service
Freight	Varies	Large/heavy items, pallets	Special handling, liftgate service

How to Choose the Right Service

Consider Delivery Speed

How quickly does the item need to arrive? Balance urgency with cost.

Budget Constraints

Different services have different price points. Use our online calculator to compare.

Destination Factors

Remote locations may have different service availability and delivery times.

International Shipping Guide

Shipping internationally requires additional preparation and documentation.

International Shipping Process

1

Check restrictions

2

Prepare documents

3

Complete customs forms

4

Calculate duties/taxes

5

Choose service

Required Documents

Commercial Invoice: Required for all commercial shipments. Include detailed description, value, and Harmonized System (HS) codes.
Certificate of Origin: May be required for certain countries or trade agreements.
Packing List: Detailed list of all items in the shipment.
Export License: Required for restricted or controlled items.
Insurance Certificate: Recommended for valuable shipments.

International Shipping Tips

Research destination country regulations: Some countries have strict import restrictions.
Use DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): Prepay duties and taxes for smoother recipient experience.
Allow extra time for customs: International shipments typically take 1-3 extra days for customs clearance.
Include detailed descriptions: Vague descriptions can cause customs delays.
Consider using our customs brokerage service: Let our experts handle customs clearance for you.

Shipping Restrictions & Prohibited Items

Certain items cannot be shipped or have special requirements. Always check before shipping.

Commonly Prohibited Items

Category	Examples	Restrictions
Hazardous Materials	Batteries, aerosols, flammable liquids	Special packaging and labeling required
Perishables	Food, plants, live animals	Temperature control, special permits
Valuables	Cash, jewelry, precious metals	Limited liability, special insurance
Illegal Items	Drugs, weapons, counterfeit goods	Absolutely prohibited
Restricted Items	Alcohol, tobacco, pharmaceuticals	Special licenses and documentation

Country-Specific Restrictions

Some countries have unique restrictions. Always check our country-specific guides before shipping to:

Australia: Strict quarantine laws for food, plants, and animal products
Brazil: Complex customs procedures and high import taxes
China: Restrictions on electronics, books, and media
India: Prohibits used electronics and certain textiles
United Arab Emirates: Restrictions on pharmaceuticals and religious materials

Tracking Your Shipment

Stay informed about your shipment's progress from pickup to delivery.

Track Online

Enter your tracking number on our website or mobile app for real-time updates.

Notifications

Opt-in for email or SMS notifications at key milestones in the delivery process.

Live Tracking

For premium services, track your driver's location in real-time on delivery day.

Understanding Tracking Statuses

Status	What It Means	Typical Timeline
Label Created	Shipping label has been created but package not yet received	Before pickup
Picked Up	Package collected by driver	Day of shipment
In Transit	Package is moving through our network	1-3 days domestic, 3-10 days international
Out for Delivery	Package is on delivery vehicle	Delivery day
Delivered	Package successfully delivered	Final status

Shipping Insurance

Protect your shipments against loss or damage during transit.

Automatic Coverage

All shipments receive automatic limited liability coverage:

Domestic shipments: Up to $100 coverage
International shipments: Up to $100 coverage
Documents: Up to $100 for loss, $0 for damage

When to Purchase Additional Insurance

Shipments valued over $100
Fragile or high-value items
International shipments
Irreplaceable items
Business shipments with high replacement costs

Insurance Options

Coverage Amount	Premium Rate	Maximum per Shipment	Deductible
$100 - $1,000	1.5% of declared value	$1,000	$0
$1,001 - $5,000	2.0% of declared value	$5,000	$50
$5,001 - $25,000	2.5% of declared value	$25,000	$100
$25,001 - $100,000	3.0% of declared value	$100,000	$250

Filing an Insurance Claim

1

Report within 30 days

2

Complete claim form

3

Provide documentation

4

Submit photos/evidence

5

Receive settlement

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between dimensional weight and actual weight?

Actual weight is the measured weight of the package. Dimensional weight (also called volumetric weight) is calculated based on package dimensions. We charge based on whichever is greater. This ensures fair pricing for lightweight but bulky items.

Formula: (Length × Width × Height) ÷ DIM Factor = Dimensional Weight

Our DIM Factor varies by service: Domestic = 166, International = 139.

How do I calculate shipping costs?

Shipping costs are based on several factors:

Package dimensions and weight (chargeable weight)
Origin and destination ZIP/postal codes
Service level selected (express vs. ground)
Additional services (insurance, signature confirmation, etc.)
Fuel surcharges (varies monthly)

Use our online calculator for accurate pricing.

What happens if my package is damaged?

If your package arrives damaged:

Inspect immediately: Check contents in the presence of the driver if possible
Document damage: Take photos of the packaging and damaged items
Keep all packaging: Do not discard damaged boxes or packing materials
File a claim: Report damage within 30 days of delivery
Provide documentation: Submit photos, receipts, and repair estimates

Note: Proper packaging is required for claim eligibility.

Can I ship liquids or fragile items?

Yes, but special precautions are required:

For liquids:

Use leak-proof containers with secure lids
Wrap each container individually in plastic
Place in waterproof bags with absorbent material
Use "This Side Up" and "Fragile" labels

For fragile items:

Use double boxing method
Provide at least 2 inches of cushioning on all sides
Use corner protectors for framed items
Mark "FRAGILE" on all sides of the box

How do I schedule a pickup?

You can schedule a pickup in several ways:

Online: Through your account dashboard
Mobile App: Use our app to schedule pickups
Phone: Call 1-800-123-4567
Drop-off: Take packages to any GlobalExpress location

Pickup Requirements:

Schedule by 5 PM for next-business-day pickup
Have packages ready and labeled
Be available during the pickup window (2-hour window provided)
Provide access instructions for secure buildings

Complete Shipping Guide