The common dilemma people face while shipping is the age- old question- “Should I ship my items in a box or a suitcase?” Both being popular choices for courier, especially at times when you have an international shipment, excess baggage shipping, or relocation shipments.
However, each of these options have their own advantages and disadvantages and the ideal use case. This “suitcase vs boxes for courier” guide will help you understand when to choose what, courier rules for each, cost comparison, and safe options.
Why Do People Use Suitcases For Courier?
If you were not aware till now, suitcases are not just your carriers during travels. They are also used for shipment- excess baggage, international relocation, and even to send clothes and other personal belongings.
Advantages Of Using A Suitcase
- The strong built-in structure of the suitcase protects clothes and other soft, fragile items in it.
- Packing and organising becomes easy while using a suitcase.
- It is an ideal option for bulky but lightweight items.
- It stays useful even after deliveries, the recipient can reuse it.
- Preferable by students and people relocating.
Situations When People Use Suitcases For Courier
- While moving abroad for work, studies, or other reasons for relocation.
- Used when people send seasonal clothing to their family overseas.
- While shipping items like blankets, clothes, soft toys, etc
Why Do People Use Boxes For Courier?
The most common and widely used courier packaging are the boxes. They are considered safe for any kind of item, are perfectly stackable, and a reliable option for long-distance shipping.
Advantages Of Using Courier Boxes
- A reliable option for heavy, fragile items where breaking is a risk.
- Labeling is easy for boxes, and they are very courier-friendly.
- They give extra protection to the items when they are wrapped with foam or a bubble wrap.
- A variety of sizes are available for boxes, from smallest to largest, as per your courier requirements.
- Many times it is an affordable option as compared to suitcases.
Situations When Boxes Are Better Choice For Courier
- Boxes can be a better choice, especially when you are shipping electronics like laptops, phones, speakers, etc
- Sending fragile items at high risk of breaking like glass items, decors, ceramics, etc
- For your books and documents, they will be a reliable choice.
- Your business and eCommerce related items can be shipped with boxes as packaging.
- When you are shipping items that need special packaging or covering for safety.
Suitcases vs Boxes- A Comparison
| Features | Suitcases | Boxes |
| Fragile Items | Not suitable | Best Choice |
| Heavy Items | Risk of damage | Better Option |
| Soft Items | Best Option | Good Option |
| Cost of shipping | Mostly higher due to its size | Usually lower |
| Durability | Good but might tear up from zippers. | Excellent option with proper packaging. |
| Courier acceptance | Limited acceptance | Accepted by all, universally. |
| Reusability | Yes | No |
| Protection level | Medium level of protection | High level of protection |
Important Courier Rules You Must Know
Courier companies around the world have specific guidelines for packaging you must be aware of-
Courier Rules For Suitcases
- Suitcases must be covered or shrink-wrapped before sending
- Make sure the zippers work and are tightly closed.
- All the items you are shipping must be padded properly
- Ensure that you stick labels on a flat surface
Courier Rules For Boxes
- Boxes must be new and sturdy
- Boxes must be taped using the H-taping method
- Fragile items must have inner cushioning.
Couriers might reject your oversized suitcases or if they possess odd shapes.
Cost Comparison- Suitcases vs Boxes
In case of suitcases, you may witness volumetric weight charges which can definitely increase the total costs. In comparison, boxes are rectangular and stackable and thus offer an accurate weight-to-space efficiency, which makes them much affordable to ship.
So if your priority is cost saving then boxes should be your go-to choice for shipment.
Conclusion: What Do Courier Experts Recommend?
Considering most courier experts, you should understand that-
- For your general shipping, boxes are the most cost-effective and safer option.
- Suitcases can be used when you are shipping clothes or soft items and even personal belongings.
If your shipment consists of fragile and valuable items, always choose boxes for shipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Send a Suitcase Through a Courier?
Yes, many couriers allow suitcases to be shipped. However, you have to make sure that they are properly packed with just non-fragile items.
- Is It Cheaper To Ship a Suitcase or a Box?
A box in comparison would be a cheaper option because it has better volumetric dimensions and couriers can complete the process easily.
- Are Suitcases Safe for International Shipping?
Suitcases can be a good option for international shipping, only if you are sending soft items. For fragile goods or heavy items, it is not recommended. During transit, the wheels of suitcases, zippers, handles, etc can get damaged.
- What Item Should not be Sent in a Suitcase?
You should never send electronics, glass, gadgets, fragile items, etc in a suitcase because there will be a high risk of damage.
- Do Courier Companies accept Damaged or Old Suitcases?
Many couriers may refuse to accept torn or damaged suitcases because there are high chances that they might burst out during transit, destroying the items you are shipping.
