Blog - How to Package a Candle for Reliable and Secure Shipping

In the modern and more environmentally friendly world, the right packaging is also sustainable, as well as strong and aesthetically pleasing. This guide will explain how to package a candle safely, securely, and sustainably, helping you to meet customer expectations and environmental goals at the same time.

1. Wrap Carefully: Begin by wrapping each pillar candle individually with protective material, such as tissue paper or bubble wrap, to shield them from scratches and bumps during transit.
2. Choose the Right Box: Select a sturdy cardboard box that fits the candles snugly to minimise movement inside. Ensure there's enough space for padding without excessive room for shifting.
3. Padding and Cushioning: Place padding material, like crumpled paper or biodegradable packing peanuts, at the bottom of the box to create a cushioning layer. Nestle the wrapped candles in the centre and fill any gaps with more padding to prevent them from shifting during shipping.
4. Secure and Seal: Seal the box securely with eco-friendly packing tape, ensuring all seams are firmly closed. Label the package clearly with fragile stickers and handling instructions to alert carriers to its delicate contents.
5. Inspect and Double-Check: Before dispatch, inspect the packaging to ensure everything is securely in place. Shake the box gently to test for movement and make any necessary adjustments to avoid potential damage during transit.

1. Individual Wrapping: Given their smaller size, individually wrapping each tealight or bubble candle is even more crucial. This is especially important if you sell your tealights without a lid, as the edge of the glass may be more vulnerable.
2. Secure Packaging: Select a box that fits the tealights or bubble candles snugly to minimise movement. Consider using dividers or compartments within the box to keep them separated and prevent any friction between candles during transit.
3. Layering and Cushioning: Layer the bottom of the box with padding material, such as crumpled paper or biodegradable packing peanuts, before placing the individually wrapped candles inside. Ensure there's enough cushioning around each candle to prevent them from knocking against each other.
4. Box Reinforcement: Given the smaller size of tealights and bubble candles, opt for a double-walled cardboard box for added protection. This helps maintain the structural integrity of the packaging, especially during handling and transit.
5. Sealing and Labeling: Seal the box securely with eco-friendly packing tape and clearly label it as fragile. Additionally, include handling instructions to ensure that carriers treat the package with care throughout the shipping process.

Candles pose unique challenges due to their fragility, heat sensitivity, and aesthetic importance. Fragile components like wicks and delicate wax structures require careful handling to prevent damage during transit. They can also melt or warp if exposed to high temperatures during shipping, making temperature control crucial.

Size and Shape Considerations

When selecting packaging for candles, it's essential to consider their diverse sizes and shapes. Candles come in various forms, from slender tapers to bulky jar candles, each requiring different packaging solutions. Flexible packaging options that can accommodate different sizes and shapes while providing sufficient protection are ideal.

Options such as recycled cardboard boxes, biodegradable wraps made from materials like corrugated paper or cornstarch, and compostable cushioning materials offer sustainable alternatives to traditional packaging. These materials not only reduce environmental impact but also resonate with the values and preferences of eco-conscious consumers.

Heat-Resistant Properties

Candles are susceptible to heat, especially during transit, which can compromise their integrity if not adequately protected. Therefore, choosing packaging materials with heat-resistant properties is crucial. Heat-resistant cardboard, for example, can withstand temperature fluctuations without warping or weakening, ensuring candles remain intact during shipping. 

Additionally, incorporating insulating layers or barriers within the packaging can further shield candles from excessive heat exposure, safeguarding their quality and appearance upon arrival.

Effective packaging design for candles should strike a balance between protection and presentation, ensuring that candles not only arrive safely but also make a memorable impression upon unboxing. Opt for packaging solutions that not only shield candles from damage but also attractively showcase them.

Inner Packaging Inserts

Inner packaging inserts play a crucial role in maintaining the stability and integrity of candles during transit. Utilise materials such as cardboard dividers, foam padding, or moulded pulp trays to securely hold each candle in place within the packaging. These inserts help prevent candles from shifting or colliding with each other during shipping, reducing the risk of breakage or damage.

See our postal packaging options or protective packaging designed to keep your candles as safe as they can be in transit. Or, you can contact us if you have any questions you’d like answered.