How to Package Lighting & Electrical for Safe Shipping

When applying for shipping insurance, you must follow these packaging standards to ensure your claim is valid in the event of loss or damage.

General Guidelines

• Use strong, undamaged boxes – new, double-walled corrugated is preferred
  
  
• All items must be individually wrapped and cushioned
  
  
• Package must withstand a 4-foot drop test on all sides without damage
  
  
• Seal with high-grade packing tape (minimum 2” wide, H-taping method)
  
  
• Include invoice and item description inside the package
  
  
• Clearly label the box with handling instructions (e.g., “Fragile,” “This Side Up”)
  
  
• Take photos of each packaging step for your records and claim support
  
  

Specific Requirements for Lighting & Electrical Components

1. Assess & Prep Each Item

• Remove light bulbs and glass covers from fixtures before packing
  
  
• Secure wires, terminals, or connectors to prevent bending/snapping
  
  
• Check for any moisture-sensitive or static-sensitive parts and protect accordingly
  
  

2. Use Anti-Static Protection

• Wrap electrical components (drivers, transformers, control boards) in anti-static bubble wrap or ESD foam
  
  
• Place items in anti-static bags before boxing
  
  
• Ensure wires do not touch metal or other parts during transit
  
  

3. Protect Against Moisture

• Place desiccant packs inside sealed plastic bags if components are moisture-sensitive
  
  
• Use moisture barrier bags for items like LED drivers, circuit boards, or sensors
  
  

4. Wrap and Cushion Thoroughly

• Wrap each item with at least 2” of bubble wrap or foam padding
  
  
• Use cardboard inserts or molded foam to keep components immobile
  
  
• Separate multiple items with cardboard dividers to avoid contact
  
  

5. Double Box for Extra Security

• Place the wrapped item(s) in a snug inner box with 2” of cushioning on all sides
  
  
• Put that box inside a larger outer box with additional cushioning
  
  
• For fragile lighting fixtures, custom foam inserts or crate packing is advised
  
  

6. Seal and Label Clearly

• Seal using strong packing tape on all seams (H-pattern sealing method)
  
  
• Affix labels: “Fragile,” “Electronic Equipment,” “This Side Up”
  
  
• Include invoice and contents list inside the package
  
  

Photo Documentation (REQUIRED for Claims)

Take clear, timestamped photos of the following:

• Unboxed item(s) prior to wrapping
  
  
• Anti-static and moisture-protection steps
  
  
• Each item fully wrapped
  
  
• Inner box with cushioning
  
  
• Outer box before sealing
  
  
• Final sealed box with shipping label
  
  

Common Reasons Claims Are Denied

• Using damaged, reused, or single-wall boxes
  
  
• Inadequate cushioning or failure to double-box
  
  
• No anti-static protection for electrical parts
  
  
• Moisture-sensitive items shipped without protection
  
  
• Lack of photo documentation showing packaging process
  
  

Pro Tip

If you're unsure about your packaging, consult with our ShipSimple team before shipping. We're here to help ensure your lighting and electrical shipments qualify for full insurance coverage.