Traveling to Japan
Packing Methods
Packing Basics
To ensure that parcels are delivered safely, please use the appropriate packing materials depending on the parcel (e.g. characteristics, weight, size).
Selecting Packing Materials
To prevent damage to parcels, please pack parcels using materials such as cardboard.
Please select a cardboard box which has sufficient strength for packing. Do not reuse boxes or use damp boxes.
Yamato Transport can also bring packing materials at the time of pickup.
Important Information on Packing
When assembling cardboard boxes, affix masking tape as needed in order to prevent the bottom of the box from falling apart.
Affix in a cross shape
This is a method which strengthens cardboard boxes with the affixing of masking tape in a cross shape. This reinforces the center area which is exposed to the greatest amount of pressure and allows cardboard boxes to withstand most parcel items.
Affix in an H shape
This is a method in which masking tape is affixed to the sides and across the center of the box. This strengthens the cardboard box and helps prevent damage.
Parcels which are too heavy for one person to carry may not be accepted. As there is also the danger of cardboard boxes breaking, please avoid overfilling boxes and put heavy items into separate boxes.
When putting several items into a single cardboard box, start by putting heavy items on the bottom first to prevent damage.
If there are gaps inside the cardboard box, items may bumped into each other during shipping. Please use newspapers, bubble wrap and towels to secure items and prevent them from moving around.
Please do not use masking tape or rope to join two or more parcels together. This is very dangerous and can lead to parcels becoming damaged or separated during shipping.
When sending parcels overseas, depending on the vendor in charge of shipping in the destination country, it may not be possible to use "Fragile, " "This Side Up" or "Do Not Stack" shipping labels. When sending fragile goods, use the box-in-box packing method to prevent damages to parcels.
Prepare 2 cardboard boxes (1 larger than the other)
Prepare 2 cardboard boxes (1 larger than the other). Use the smaller box as the inner box and the larger box as the outer box. Ideally, the inner box and outer box should fit together tightly.
Pack parcel contents into the inner (smaller) box
Pack the parcel contents into the smaller (inner) box securely. Use cushioning material to fill in any gaps inside the box.
Pack the inner (smaller) box into the outer (larger) box
Put the inner (smaller) box into the outer (larger) box. Use cushioning materials to fill in any gaps and position the inner (smaller) box in the center of the outer (larger) box.
Packing Techniques by Type of Parcel
Please feel free to contact a Yamato Transport Sales Office for any inquiries regarding packing.
How to Send a Parcel
Tableware
Dishes, glasses, etc.
Wrap each item in cushioning material such as newspaper or bubble wrap.
- *For items with a lid, wrap the main body and lid separately.
When packing in a cardboard box, line the bottom of the box with cushioning material. Pack items vertically, not lying down.
After placing the items in the box, secure them with cushioning material to prevent moving.
Bottles
Sake bottles, wine bottles, etc.
Firmly insert corks/stoppers. If there is a risk of leaking, place the bottle in a plastic bag. Wrap in a sufficient amount of cushioning material such as newspaper or bubble wrap.
When packing in a cardboard box, place bottles vertical so that there are no gaps. Then, secure them with cushioning material to prevent moving.
Food Products
Wet foods (pickled foods, etc.)
If there is a risk of leaking, pack the foods in a sealed container and then wrap in a plastic bag.
When packing in a cardboard box, place items vertically for safety.
Seafood
Fresh fish, etc.
Seafood contains a large amount of moisture. Therefore, place seafood in a plastic bag and then insert in a Styrofoam container. When using Styrofoam, pack with a sufficient amount of dry ice.
- *As an estimate, about 2 kg of dry ice should be used for a Styrofoam container of Size 60 (equivalent to 5 liters).
Be sure to pre-cool parcel before shipping.
Electronic Devices
Computers, printers, etc.
If the original box is available, pack in that box in the same condition as at the time of purchase.
If the original box is not available, please use special packing materials made by Yamato Transport. The Sales Driver will pack parcels at the time of pickup for the convenience and peace of mind of customers.
Posters, Calendars, etc.
Use a special tube for posters, or use cardboard to make the triangular tube shown in the diagram. Insert the poster inside the tube. When packing in a tube, insert something to serve as the "core" inside of the poster.
When packing flat, place the poster between sheets of pasteboard, etc.
Triangular cases are also available from Yamato Transport.
Paintings, Artworks, etc.
Pictures which are Size 10 or smaller can be sent using the special packing material "Art Box."
For other works of arts, Yamato Logistics will use special vehicles and packing materials, and will take responsibility for pickup, packing, and sending.
Car Tires
When sending tires with hubcaps, reinforce with cardboard or other material to prevent damage to the hubcaps. For detailed packing methods, refer to FAQ.
Other Special Items
Furniture, home appliances, bicycles, motorcycles, cars, pianos, pets, etc.
Yamato Home Convenience handles large parcels which require handling using large vehicles or multiple staff members, parcels which require packing or loading/unloading, and other special parcels.