How to pack a suitcase for shipping

Check the lining, side pockets and toiletry pouch before repacking. Old travel supplies are easy to overlook. BagBird prohibits aerosols, loose lithium batteries, power banks, flammable liquids, cash, jewellery and perishable food. Check the full prohibited-items page rather than assuming that something accepted on a flight can also go in a courier shipment.

Keep your passport, travel documents and anything you will need before delivery with you. Set uncertain items aside for a separate check. Medication, electronics with installed batteries and other restricted contents need their own review before you include them.

Inspect the wheels, handles and zips. A damaged case is a poor starting point for a shipment. Use a sturdy outer box with cushioning around the case. Choose one that accommodates protection without leaving a large empty space, and secure loose straps inside.

A favourite suitcase may matter as much as its contents. BagBird's protection excludes cosmetic damage to the bag or box itself, so decide whether you are comfortable using that particular case before packing it.

Put similar clothing together and keep a running count as you pack. Separate shoes from clean clothing. Avoid forcing the zip closed or making the case bulge; if it only shuts under pressure, redistribute the contents. Photograph each group before covering it with the next layer so you can check your inventory without unpacking everything.

Review the no-compensation list before including fragile objects or electronics. Extra padding does not change an item's eligibility for protection.

Weigh the finished package, including its box and padding. Measure the outermost length, width and height, not the suitcase manufacturer's capacity in litres. If you add packaging after requesting a quote, measure again before confirming the booking.

BagBird's booking limits are 68 kg per item, a longest side of 274 cm and a maximum length plus girth of 330 cm. Length plus girth means the longest side plus twice each of the other two sides. A packed box measuring 70 by 45 by 30 cm has a length plus girth of 220 cm.

Remove old shipping labels. Print the label supplied for this shipment at 100% scale and attach it securely with the barcode flat and visible. Put a backup copy inside. Match each label to the correct item when sending several pieces, and follow any customs-document instructions on your shipment page.

Leave luggage unlocked as required by BagBird's terms, and seal any outer box securely. Take a final photograph of the packaging and label. Keep the finished items together at the collection address, with someone available to hand them to the courier during the confirmed window.