A well-packed, correctly documented shipment clears customs faster and arrives safely. This guide covers how to pack your parcel, what to label, the documents you will usually need, and how chargeable weight is worked out. If you are unsure about anything, just ask us before you book.
How to pack your shipment
- Use a sturdy box. Choose a rigid, good-quality carton sized to your contents — not too large, not overfilled.
- Cushion the contents. Wrap items individually and fill gaps with bubble wrap, foam or paper so nothing shifts.
- Protect fragile items. Wrap glass, ceramics and electronics separately and mark the box as fragile. Fragile goods travel at the sender’s risk, so pack generously.
- Seal liquids. Close bottles tightly, tape the lids, and seal them in a leak-proof bag. Some liquids cannot be shipped to certain countries — check with us first.
- Documents. Place papers flat in a document envelope so they do not bend or tear.
- Seal well. Tape all seams with strong packing tape and remove any old labels or barcodes.
Labelling
Write the receiver’s full name, complete address with postal/PIN code, and a working phone number. Add your own return address. Clear, complete addresses prevent delays and failed deliveries.
What you cannot send
Dangerous, illegal and restricted goods — such as flammables, weapons, narcotics, counterfeit items and currency — are not accepted. Some goods (medicines, food, liquids) are only accepted where the destination country allows. See our Terms & Conditions for details, and ask us if you are unsure.
KYC and documents you will usually need
International shipping requires basic “know your customer” (KYC) checks and customs paperwork. Depending on what you send and where, you may be asked for:
- A government photo ID of the sender (for example, Aadhaar, passport or driving licence).
- An invoice or a simple declaration listing the contents, quantity and value.
- For medicines: a prescription or doctor’s note, and details of the product and quantity.
- Any product- or country-specific documents required by destination customs.
Providing accurate, complete documents up front is the single best way to avoid customs delays.
How chargeable weight works
Courier charges are based on the greater of the actual weight and the volumetric (dimensional) weight of your parcel — because a large, light box takes up as much space as a small, heavy one.
A common way to estimate volumetric weight in kilograms is:
Length (cm) × Width (cm) × Height (cm) ÷ 5000
Measure your packed box, compare the two figures, and the higher one is used. Tell us your dimensions and we will confirm the exact chargeable weight in your quote.
Tips for smooth customs clearance
- Declare contents and value accurately — under-declaring causes delays and penalties.
- Keep an invoice or receipt handy for anything new or commercial.
- Check whether your item needs a permit or is restricted at the destination.
- Include the receiver’s phone number so customs or the carrier can reach them.
Need a hand?
Contact us at hello@sagarairexpress.com or +91 99997 77651 and we will help you pack, document and quote your shipment.