---
title: How to Pack and Ship Odd Shaped Items
description: Better Packages offers some tips for businesses who routinely pack and ship odd-shaped items.
image: https://blog.betterpackages.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/BP-odd-shaped-items-blog-2.jpg
---

[800.474.8273](tel:+1800.474.8273)  |  [Distributors Login](https://www.betterpackages.com/distributors-only/)  |  [Distributors Locator](https://www.betterpackages.com/distributors/)  |  [Shop Account](https://www.betterpackages.com/my-account/)  |  [Cart](https://www.betterpackages.com/cart/)  |  [Contact Us](https://www.betterpackages.com/contact/)

[![Better Packages, Inc.](https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hub/1601908/hubfs/social-suggested-images/logo.png?width=256&height=96&name=logo.png)](https://www.betterpackages.com/)

- [Products](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/) 
    - [Curby® Sustainable Packaging](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#curby-sustainable-packaging/)
    - [Manual Water-Activated Tape Dispensers](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#manual-water-activated-tape-dispensers)
    - [Electric Water-Activated Tape Dispensers](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#electric-water-activated-tape-dispensers)
    - [Inkjet Systems](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#inkjet-systems)
    - [Water-Activated Tape](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#water-activated-tape)
    - [Parts](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#parts)
    - [Carton Sealing Machines](https://www.betterpackages.com/products#carton-sealing-machines)
    - [Need Help Finding a Model?](https://www.betterpackages.com/find-a-model/)
- [Parts & Service](https://www.betterpackages.com/parts-and-service/) 
    - [Buy Better Pack Parts Online](https://www.betterpackages.com/parts)
    - [Buy Interpack Parts Online](https://www.betterpackages.com/part-category/interpack/)
    - [Parts Drawings and Operator Manuals](https://www.betterpackages.com/parts-drawings-and-operator-manuals/)
    - [Set-up, Operation, and Maintenance Videos](https://www.betterpackages.com/tape-dispenser-videos/)
    - [Preventive Maintenance Tips](https://www.betterpackages.com/preventive-maintenance/)
    - [Service and Repair Request](https://www.betterpackages.com/service-repair/)
    - [Troubleshooting Tips](https://www.betterpackages.com/water-activated-tape-dispenser-troubleshooting/)
    - [Warranty Registration](https://www.betterpackages.com/warranty-information/)
    - [Warranty Registration](https://www.betterpackages.com/warranty-information/)
- [Industries](https://www.betterpackages.com/industries/) 
    - [Automotive Aftermarket Parts](https://www.betterpackages.com/automotive-aftermarket-parts/)
    - [B2B E-Commerce](https://www.betterpackages.com/ecommerce-packaging/)
    - [Beauty and Cosmetics](https://www.betterpackages.com/beauty-and-cosmetics/)
    - [Electronics and Computers](https://www.betterpackages.com/electronics-and-computers/)
    - [Home Goods](https://www.betterpackages.com/home-goods/)
    - [Jewelry](https://www.betterpackages.com/jewelry/)
    - [Luxury Goods](https://www.behttps://www.betterpackages.com/luxury-goods/tterpackages.com/endure-environmental-extremes/)
    - [Sporting Goods](https://www.betterpackages.com/sporting-goods/)
- [Resources](https://www.betterpackages.com/industries/) 
    - [About](https://www.betterpackages.com/automotive-aftermarket-parts/)
    - [Who We Are](https://www.betterpackages.com/ecommerce-packaging/)
    - [Safety Matters](https://www.betterpackages.com/beauty-and-cosmetics/)
    - [Is Your Business Using The Right Packaging Tape?](https://www.betterpackages.com/electronics-and-computers/)
    - [FAQs](https://www.betterpackages.com/home-goods/)
    - [Carton Sealing Options](https://www.betterpackages.com/jewelry/)
    - [SGS Tape Tests and Studies](https://www.behttps://www.betterpackages.com/luxury-goods/tterpackages.com/endure-environmental-extremes/)
- [Blog](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog)

[![Better Packages, Inc.](https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hub/1601908/hubfs/social-suggested-images/logo.png?width=256&height=96&name=logo.png)](https://www.betterpackages.com/)

- [Products](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/) 
    - [Curby® Sustainable Packaging](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#curby-sustainable-packaging/)
    - [Manual Water-Activated Tape Dispensers](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#manual-water-activated-tape-dispensers)
    - [Electric Water-Activated Tape Dispensers](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#electric-water-activated-tape-dispensers)
    - [Inkjet Systems](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#inkjet-systems)
    - [Water-Activated Tape](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#water-activated-tape)
    - [Parts](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#parts)
    - [Carton Sealing Machines](https://www.betterpackages.com/products#carton-sealing-machines)
    - [Need Help Finding a Model?](https://www.betterpackages.com/find-a-model/)
- [Parts & Service](https://www.betterpackages.com/parts-and-service/) 
    - [Buy Better Pack Parts Online](https://www.betterpackages.com/parts)
    - [Buy Interpack Parts Online](https://www.betterpackages.com/part-category/interpack/)
    - [Parts Drawings and Operator Manuals](https://www.betterpackages.com/parts-drawings-and-operator-manuals/)
    - [Set-up, Operation, and Maintenance Videos](https://www.betterpackages.com/tape-dispenser-videos/)
    - [Preventive Maintenance Tips](https://www.betterpackages.com/preventive-maintenance/)
    - [Service and Repair Request](https://www.betterpackages.com/service-repair/)
    - [Troubleshooting Tips](https://www.betterpackages.com/water-activated-tape-dispenser-troubleshooting/)
    - [Warranty Registration](https://www.betterpackages.com/warranty-information/)
    - [Warranty Registration](https://www.betterpackages.com/warranty-information/)
- [Industries](https://www.betterpackages.com/industries/) 
    - [Automotive Aftermarket Parts](https://www.betterpackages.com/automotive-aftermarket-parts/)
    - [B2B E-Commerce](https://www.betterpackages.com/ecommerce-packaging/)
    - [Beauty and Cosmetics](https://www.betterpackages.com/beauty-and-cosmetics/)
    - [Electronics and Computers](https://www.betterpackages.com/electronics-and-computers/)
    - [Home Goods](https://www.betterpackages.com/home-goods/)
    - [Jewelry](https://www.betterpackages.com/jewelry/)
    - [Luxury Goods](https://www.behttps://www.betterpackages.com/luxury-goods/tterpackages.com/endure-environmental-extremes/)
    - [Sporting Goods](https://www.betterpackages.com/sporting-goods/)
- [Resources](https://www.betterpackages.com/industries/) 
    - [About](https://www.betterpackages.com/automotive-aftermarket-parts/)
    - [Who We Are](https://www.betterpackages.com/ecommerce-packaging/)
    - [Safety Matters](https://www.betterpackages.com/beauty-and-cosmetics/)
    - [Is Your Business Using The Right Packaging Tape?](https://www.betterpackages.com/electronics-and-computers/)
    - [FAQs](https://www.betterpackages.com/home-goods/)
    - [Carton Sealing Options](https://www.betterpackages.com/jewelry/)
    - [SGS Tape Tests and Studies](https://www.behttps://www.betterpackages.com/luxury-goods/tterpackages.com/endure-environmental-extremes/)
- [Blog](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog)

 Distributors Login  Distributors Locator  Shop Account  Cart  Contact Us

- Categories
- Follow Us

[Subscribe](https://learn.betterpackages.com/subscribe)

- [Automotive](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/automotive)
- [Better Packages](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/better-packages)
- [Corrugated Cartons](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/corrugated-cartons)
- [E-Commerce](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/e-commerce)
- [Fine Jewelry](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/fine-jewelry)
- [Furniture](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/furniture)
- [Maintenance](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/maintenance)
- [Packing & Shipping Tips](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/packing-shipping-tips)
- [Pharmaceuticals](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/pharmaceuticals)
- [Sporting Goods](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/sporting-goods)
- [Tape Dispensers](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/tape-dispensers)
- [Water-Activated Tape](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/water-activated-tape)

- <https://twitter.com/WATisbest>
- <https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-packages-inc-/>

[  View All Posts](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog)

[Subscribe](https://learn.betterpackages.com/subscribe)

[Sporting Goods](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/sporting-goods) | [E-commerce](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/e-commerce) | [Packing & Shipping Tips](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/packing-shipping-tips)

# How to Pack and Ship Odd Shaped Items

 By: [Better Packages](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/author/better-packages) on April 19th, 2018

 Print/Save as PDF

- Share:
- <https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-pack-and-ship-odd-shaped-items>
- <https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=How+to+Pack+and+Ship+Odd+Shaped+Items&url=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-pack-and-ship-odd-shaped-items&via=>
- <https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?url=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-pack-and-ship-odd-shaped-items&title=How+to+Pack+and+Ship+Odd+Shaped+Items&summary=Better+Packages+offers+some+tips+for+businesses+who+routinely+pack+and+ship+odd-shaped+items.>
- <https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-pack-and-ship-odd-shaped-items&media=https://39499362.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/39499362/Imported_Blog_Media/BP-odd-shaped-items-blog-2.jpg&description=Better+Packages+offers+some+tips+for+businesses+who+routinely+pack+and+ship+odd-shaped+items.>
- [mailto:?body=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-pack-and-ship-odd-shaped-items](mailto:?body=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-pack-and-ship-odd-shaped-items)

#### ![packing odd-shaped items](https://blog.betterpackages.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/BP-odd-shaped-items-blog-2.jpg?width=711&height=474&name=BP-odd-shaped-items-blog-2.jpg)

#### Items that fit into a standard carton are relatively easy to prepare for shipping. First, you place the item in the carton and fill any excess interior space with appropriate padding such as air pillows to prevent shifting of the contents. Then you securely seal the carton with water-activated tape (WAT), which [outperforms pressure-sensitive tape](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/4-ways-water-activated-tape-performs-better-than-pressure-sensitive-tape). Finally, you label it and it is ready for transport.

Odd shaped items that don’t fit well into a standard carton are much more challenging to ship. But like they say, where there’s a will there’s a way!

Take merchandise like hockey sticks, baseball bats, or lacrosse sticks for example. Long and narrow, they won’t fit into the kinds of cartons you are likely to have on hand. Consequently, getting them ready for transport may require some creativity.

The same can be true of items like lamps, artwork, [electronics](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/x-packaging-tips-when-shipping-electronics-or-small-electronics), and other breakables. Their fragile nature adds to the degree of difficulty. [Packing and shipping heavy items](https://inbound.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-win-when-packing-heavy-sports-equipment) may require some extra steps as well.

> “Odd shaped items that don’t fit into a standard carton are much more challenging to ship. But like they say, where there’s a will there’s a way!” [TWEET THIS](https://ctt.ec/9k4VU)

### Tips for Handling Items with Unusual Dimensions

How can you help ensure that odd shaped items make it safely to their destination? Here are some proven strategies.

- **Use an oversized carton with more padding.** In some cases, you may find that your best option is to use a carton that accommodates the item’s largest dimensions, even though it may mean that there is a significant amount of excess space. You can add more padding to secure the item.
- **Have custom inserts designed.** Foam or styrofoam inserts created to cushion a specific item not only provide better protection but make the packing process more efficient.
- **Use the “package within a package” approach.** Sometimes an item can be more easily secured within one container that can then be packed in a carton.
- **Have custom cartons created.** If there is an odd shaped item that you ship regularly, you can have a custom carton designed and manufactured specifically to accommodate that item.
- **Consider a courier.** Despite your best efforts at packing an odd shaped item properly, there may be a greater risk that it will be damaged during shipping. If you have concerns, you might consider sending the package using a courier who gives it individualized attention.

### 5 Additional Considerations for Shipping Odd Shaped Items

Getting an odd shaped item securely packed is an important first step. However, there are other considerations you should keep in mind. For example:

1. If the packaging is a unique size or shape, will the shipper accept it?
2. Will they charge more to ship it?
3. Will it take longer to be delivered?
4. Can it be (and should it be) insured?
5. Does the item’s odd shape require that it be kept in a particular orientation during shipping? If so, that should be indicated in multiple locations on the carton.

Ultimately, virtually an item can be safely shipped. The more unique the shape, however, the more forethought and care will have to go into the preparation. To learn more about water-activated tape and its role in securing packages of any shape, [click here](https://www.betterpackages.com/benefits-of-water-activated-tape).

---

- <https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-pack-and-ship-odd-shaped-items>
- <https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=How+to+Pack+and+Ship+Odd+Shaped+Items&url=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-pack-and-ship-odd-shaped-items&via=>
- <https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?url=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-pack-and-ship-odd-shaped-items&title=How+to+Pack+and+Ship+Odd+Shaped+Items&summary=Better+Packages+offers+some+tips+for+businesses+who+routinely+pack+and+ship+odd-shaped+items.>
- <https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-pack-and-ship-odd-shaped-items&media=https://39499362.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/39499362/Imported_Blog_Media/BP-odd-shaped-items-blog-2.jpg&description=Better+Packages+offers+some+tips+for+businesses+who+routinely+pack+and+ship+odd-shaped+items.>
- [mailto:?body=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-pack-and-ship-odd-shaped-items](mailto:?body=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-pack-and-ship-odd-shaped-items)

[![logo](https://blog.betterpackages.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Template%20Items/logo.png?width=256&height=96&name=logo.png)](https://www.betterpackages.com/)

#### Contact Customer Service

[Phone 800.474.8273](tel:800.474.8273) [Email info@betterpackages.com](tel:info@betterpackages.com) [mailto:](mailto:) [mailto:](mailto:)

[Contact Us](https://www.betterpackages.com/contact/)

- [Solutions](https://www.betterpackages.com/solutions/) 
    - [Increase Packaging Productivity](https://www.betterpackages.com/increase-packaging-productivity/)
    - [Tamper Evident Packaging](https://www.betterpackages.com/tamper-evident-packaging/)
    - [Brand Your Packages](https://www.betterpackages.com/brand-your-packages/)
    - [Improve Warehouse Packer Safety](https://www.betterpackages.com/improve-warehouse-packer-safety/)
    - [Reduce Packaging Waste](https://www.betterpackages.com/reduce-packaging-waste/)
    - [Endure Environmental Extremes](https://www.betterpackages.com/endure-environmental-extremes/)
    - [Sustainable Packaging](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/curby-sustainable-packaging/)

- [Products](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/) 
    - [Curby® Sustainable Packaging](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/curby-sustainable-packaging/)
    - [Manual Water-Activated Tape Dispensers](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#manual-water-activated-tape-dispensers)
    - [Electric Water-Activated Tape Dispensers](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#electric-water-activated-tape-dispensers)
    - [Water-Activated Tape](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#water-activated-tape)
    - [Parts](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#parts)

- [Learn](https://www.betterpackages.com/learn-landing/) 
    - [About](https://www.betterpackages.com/about)
    - [FAQs](https://www.betterpackages.com/frequently-asked-questions/)
    - [Maintenance Videos](https://www.betterpackages.com/tape-dispenser-maintenance-videos/)
    - [Blog](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog)
    - [Contact Us](https://www.betterpackages.com/contact/)

 © 2026 Better Packages All rights reserved.  | [Terms & Conditions](https://www.betterpackages.com/terms)  | [Privacy Policy](https://www.itape.com/privacy-policy/)

```json
{
  "@context" : "https://schema.org",
  "@type" : "BlogPosting",
  "author" : {
    "@type" : "Person",
    "name" : "Better Packages",
    "url" : "https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/author/better-packages"
  },
  "dateModified" : "2023-08-17T14:24:18.710Z",
  "datePublished" : "2018-04-19T04:00:00.000Z",
  "headline" : "How to Pack and Ship Odd Shaped Items",
  "image" : [ "https://blog.betterpackages.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/BP-odd-shaped-items-blog-2.jpg" ],
  "mainEntityOfPage" : {
    "@id" : "https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-pack-and-ship-odd-shaped-items",
    "@type" : "WebPage"
  },
  "publisher" : {
    "@type" : "Organization",
    "logo" : {
      "@type" : "ImageObject",
      "url" : "https://blog.betterpackages.com/hubfs/logo.png"
    },
    "name" : "IPG"
  }
}
```