Packing a board for post
Most courier-damaged boards we see were packed by someone trying to be careful with the wrong materials. Cling film and padded envelopes generate static and let boards flex; a board that arrives cracked costs more to deal with than any courier upgrade. Here is how we pack items that go the other way, and how you should pack items coming in.
Three layers, in order
- Anti-static first. A bare board goes into an ESD bag before anything else. If you have none, the board’s original packaging is the next best thing — never cling film, and never a supermarket carrier bag.
- Foam or bubble wrap around it. Enough that the board cannot slide or flex. Corners are where boards crack, so they get the most padding.
- A rigid box around it all. A double-walled box, or the device’s original retail box inside a shipping box. The package should survive a dropped delivery tray, because it probably will meet one.
What to include — and what not to
Send the item the ticket describes. For a board-level job that is usually the bare board or the complete device, whichever the ticket says. Do not send chargers, cases, memory cards, SIM trays or customer accessories unless we have asked — they add weight and handling, and they are easy to lose track of.
Screws and small parts travel in a labelled bag or taped to the outside of the ESD bag — never loose in the same bag as the board, where they will scratch it.
Batteries and displays
Devices with lithium batteries must go by a service your carrier accepts batteries on, with the carrier’s own labelling rules followed. Screens are the most fragile part of any device: remove them for posting where the job allows, or protect them like the glass they are. If in doubt, tell us on the ticket what you are sending and we will confirm before you post.
The paperwork that speeds you up
- Print the parcel code or write the ticket number clearly on the outside.
- Put a second note with the ticket number inside the box — parcels and paperwork get separated.
- Use tracked post both ways, and add the tracking number on the ticket so the bench can watch for it.
Before you seal the box
Shake it gently. If anything moves, it is not packed. If the box flexes, it is not strong enough. If the board can be touched without opening a bag, start again.
Packing questions
Do I need an anti-static bag?
For a bare board, yes: an ESD bag first, then foam or bubble wrap. If you have none, the board's original packaging is the next best thing. Cling film and carrier bags are the worst — they generate static and protect nothing.
Should I send the whole device or just the board?
The ticket says which. For diagnosis of an unknown fault, send the complete device; for rework on a bare board, send the board. If you are unsure, message on the ticket before posting.
Where do screws and small parts go?
In a labelled bag or taped to the outside of the ESD bag — never loose in the same bag as the board, where they scratch it in transit.
What paperwork goes in the box?
The ticket number outside, clearly (the parcel code prints from the portal), and a second note with the ticket number inside. Parcels and paperwork get separated; the ticket number puts them back together.
The books are full — join the list
Our bench is at capacity, so we are not taking new jobs right this moment. Open a trade account and we will email you the moment we are booking again — no commitment. Questions? Email jobs@soldersector.com.
