Packaging guide for international shipping
Practical preparation tips for boxes, household goods, vehicle parts, and special items before shipping from the USA to Hungary or Europe.
Before you start packing
Good packing helps reduce shipping risk, but it does not guarantee damage-free transport. Requirements may vary by shipment type, partner, carrier, route, and destination. Final packaging requirements should be reviewed before shipment.
Before you ship
Complete these steps before packing or committing to a shipment.
Confirm what you are shipping
Know the exact item type, dimensions, and weight before booking. This affects which shipping method and partner options may be available.
Check item restrictions before packing
Some items are restricted or unavailable for certain shipping methods. Ask before packing anything with batteries, fluids, chemicals, or aerosols.
Measure dimensions and estimate weight
Accurate dimensions and weight are needed for a reliable cost estimate and to confirm available shipping options.
Take photos before packing
Photograph items clearly before packing, especially for high-value, fragile, or pre-damaged goods. Photos support any later claims or condition documentation.
Keep invoices and purchase receipts
Original invoices and purchase receipts are required for customs documentation at the destination. Keep both the item and its invoice.
Prepare item descriptions
Write a clear, accurate description of each item: type, brand, condition, intended use, and value. This is needed for packing lists and customs forms.
Label boxes clearly
Include your name, destination address, and contact information on every box. Add handling notes (e.g. "fragile") where appropriate.
Create an inventory
A complete inventory of packed items is typically required for customs documentation. Keep a copy for yourself and one for the shipment.
Ask before shipping unusual items
If you are unsure whether an item can be shipped — fragile, oversized, battery-powered, or unusual — contact us before packing. Some items require additional review.
Review final requirements before sealing
Packing requirements may vary by carrier, shipment type, and destination. Confirm details before sealing boxes or containers.
Boxes and personal items
Practical tips for packing boxes, personal goods, clothing, books, and household items.
- Use strong, double-walled cardboard boxes rated for the weight of your items
- Do not reuse weak, damp, or damaged boxes
- Do not overpack — boxes should close fully without bulging
- Fill empty space with packing material to prevent movement
- Tape all seams, edges, and flaps with strong tape
- Label every box with contents, destination, and fragile note if applicable
- Keep a list of what is in each box for your inventory
Box contents, declared value, and destination requirements may affect documentation and review at customs.
Household goods and moving items
Guidance for preparing furniture, appliances, and personal belongings for international shipment. We do not provide professional moving or packing services.
- Create a detailed inventory before you start packing
- Wrap fragile items individually before placing in boxes
- Protect furniture corners and edges with padding
- Avoid putting loose items directly in containers
- Group similar or room-specific items together
- Label each box with the room or category
- Photograph high-value items before packing
- Do not pack prohibited items such as food, liquids, or hazardous materials
- Ask before packing oversized furniture or unusual items — review may be needed
Vehicle parts and auto-related items
Guidance for packing mechanical parts, accessories, and vehicle components. Some vehicle parts may be restricted or require additional review.
- Clean used parts where possible before packing
- Remove fluids, oil residue, or fuel before shipping when applicable
- Identify the part clearly in your packing list
- Protect sharp edges with padding or wrapping
- Pack heavy parts securely to avoid movement during shipping
- Document the value of each part for customs
- Ask before shipping batteries, airbags, fuel systems, transmissions, or any part with fluid residue
Ask before shipping batteries, airbags, fuel-system components, engines, transmissions, or parts with fluid or chemical residue.
Fragile, high-value, or special items
Electronics, instruments, artwork, glassware, and other fragile or high-value goods require extra care. Cargo protection options may be available for some shipments — ask when requesting a quote.
- Consider double-boxing: pack in a smaller box, then place inside a larger padded box
- Use foam, bubble wrap, or cushioning material around every surface
- Photograph items before packing as documentation of condition
- Prepare declared value documentation for customs
- Include special handling notes in your shipment details
- Contact us before shipping if you are uncertain whether an item is suitable
- Fragile packing reduces risk but does not guarantee damage-free shipping
Check before shipping
Items that may require review before shipping
This is a general guide, not an exhaustive legal list. Some legal products may still be difficult, restricted, or unavailable to ship by certain methods. Contact us before packing any of these item types.
If you are unsure, contact us before purchasing or packing. Requirements vary by shipping method and destination.
Documents to keep with your shipment
Keep these documents ready for your shipment. Requirements may vary by item type and destination.
Commonly required documents may include:
- Purchase invoice or receipt for every item
- Accurate description of each item
- Declared value for customs documentation
- Packing list with box-by-box inventory
- Photos of items before packing
- Seller details and contact information
- Destination recipient name and contact details
- Any special handling instructions
Related services
Packages & Online Purchases
Shipping packages, parts, and online purchases from US retailers
Household Goods & Moving
Boxes, furniture, and personal belongings from the USA
Container Shipping
FCL and LCL options for larger shipments and vehicles
Customs & Documents
What paperwork may be needed before and after shipping
Common questions
View all FAQ →Preparing something for shipment?
Send us the item details, size, weight, value, and destination before packing or shipping. We will review what information may be needed for the next step.