This article offers individual sellers guidance on packing and shipping small items to ensure they arrive with your buyer in perfect condition. 

For a guide on shipping furniture items that cannot be shipped with our Proovia delivery service, please refer to this article here. 


Which items do I have to ship myself as an individual seller? 

Small items: You will be responsible for shipping small items that can be sent through the post.

Furniture items that can’t be shipped via Proovia: Our UK-to-UK delivery service with Proovia is the delivery service you have to use for furniture items if the option is available. However, you will be responsible for shipping furniture items that can’t currently be shipped via Proovia (such as items going to or from postcodes not currently covered by Proovia).


Guidelines for secure packaging:

  1. Choose a strong cardboard box that fits the item's dimensions, shape, and weight. For heavier items, we suggest using two or three layers of cardboard.
  2. Make sure to protect fragile items by cushioning them with loose-fill packing peanuts, bubble wrap, paper, or newspaper. There should be a gap between any fragile item parts and the outer packaging of your box, and we recommend double-boxing fragile items with at least 8 cm of cushioning in and around the smaller box.
  3. Use a thick, self-adhesive tape to seal the package.
  4. Attach the shipping label of your chosen shipper flat to your package, ensuring its address and shipment details are clearly visible.
  5. Label your packages with “Fragile” to ensure your chosen shipper handles the item carefully.
  6. Remember that if the item is damaged due to improper packing or your shipper’s handling of the item, we may have to refund the buyer in accordance with our Return Policy.


Good examples of internal packaging materials:

  • Biodegradable and compostable loose-fill packing peanuts
  • Polystyrene peanuts/chips
  • Bubblewrap
  • Foam sheeting
  • Cardboard
  • Paper.


Going above and beyond:

  • Where possible, opt for environmentally friendly packaging materials.
  • Feel free to add a personal touch, such as a thank you note in your parcels.
  • If you’d like to, you can also add your return address details to the parcel so the item can be returned back to you if the shipping label becomes damaged or the item is lost.


When choosing your preferred shipper: 

  • You must follow any specific requirements from your postage provider when packaging your item.
  • As a individual seller, you are liable for the safe delivery of your small items. Always insure your items against damage so that you can raise a claim with them if needed.


Vinterior top-tip: 

Please remember by packaging your items well, shipping quickly, and providing a personal touch, you can give buyers a first-class delivery experience that will earn you an excellent seller review score.