If you have ever been on the receiving end of an anticipated shipment that shows up bent, broken, missing pieces or damaged, then you are well aware of the disappointment. Some recipients may have visions of couriers and shipping staff playing kickball with their package, but the real culprit is the packaging itself.

There are a few rules that one must follow when preparing a shipment, whether domestic, international, or simply sending it down the street.

(1) Know your weight limits. No one wants to be surprised upon arrival at the cost of a shipment. Know exactly what the weight limits are for your package.

(2) Know what items are prohibited, and NEVER send them.

(3) Use the correct sized box. Boxes come in many sizes for that reason. Use the smallest size that fits snugly, but not too tight, to the contents.

(4) If the box fits snugly in width, but not in height, you can cut down the box to limit the excessive space between contents and the lid (or top of the box).

Open the tabs and etch into the box about an inch above the top of the contents. Etch around the inside, cutting only through the first layer. Then cut down the corners to appropriate height. Fold in, and you have a perfect-fitting box.

(5) When shipping multiple boxes in one larger box, place the heavier boxes on the bottom and line every open space with crush paper.

(6) The best packaging material for the planet is crush paper, since it is recyclable. Air bubbles are second best, as long as the recipient reuses them. Styrofoam should not be used, and is even illegal in some sensitive countries.

(7) Only use specialty labels if you need them. Be sure not to use them in excess.

(8) Do not leave empty space in your boxes, but do not overpack them either. Be sure there are no bulges on the sides or top of the box.