How To Ship Electronics for B2B

The need to maintain product quality in electronics manufacturing goes beyond factory operations. In many ways, sensitive components such as semiconductors and electronic control units are most vulnerable during the shipping process. To prevent damage from electrostatic discharge, temperature fluctuations, impacts, and moisture, it’s vital to know the right way to ship electronics.

Factors That Affect How You Ship Electronics

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for electronics shipments. Instead, manufacturers should pair packaging with the needs of each product. Here are a few factors to consider:

• Component sensitivity: Some electronics are exceptionally sensitive to low-voltage static electricity, and others can be permanently damaged by excessive heat or cold.
• Environmental protection: Unless the product itself is sealed against humidity or dust, your packaging must provide the required protection.
• Product cost: Items with a higher price tag deserve greater levels of protection to avoid loss, such as metallized antistatic bags that deliver EMI/RF shielding.
• Impact resistance: Where durable packaging is needed to safeguard electronic parts, assemblies, or delicate systems, choosing heavy-duty plastics such as HDPE can provide improved results.
• Item size and shape: The vast majority of electronics respond poorly to vibrations, friction, and jostling, which means that primary packaging must provide a good fit that keeps components snug and secure.
• Order volume: For large-volume products, stackable containers allow for greater safety, stability, and impact resistance.

The type of packaging materials you choose also depends on your shipping destination and key requirements during the transportation process.

Essentials for Shipping Sensitive Electronics

Safely transporting electronic components requires using high-quality packaging materials, following best practices for shipping, and knowing regulatory or cross-border requirements.

Package Accessories Separately

For complex electronic assemblies or devices, such as laptops or optical equipment, accessories should be packaged individually. This reduces the risk of static buildup and impacts.

Be Precise

Electronics need sufficient cushioning, but too much pressure is a bad thing. Carefully plan the size, shape, fill volume, and thickness for primary and secondary component packaging.

Prevent Electrostatic Discharge

ESD during transport can partially damage or destroy sensitive electronics. Ensure product quality by selecting antistatic plastic trays or static-dissipative bags.

Common shipping materials can create an enormous amount of static electricity, such as conventional tape, bubble wrap, or styrofoam peanuts. To avoid this issue, choose ESD control versions of void fill packaging.

Research Device Classification and Carrier Rules

Certain electronics are restricted for air-based shipping. Carriers based in the U.S., Europe, and other regions often have restrictions on items like lithium-ion batteries, power packs, and other electronic components.

Embrace Custom Thermoplastic Molding

Many organizations are surprised to discover how affordable customized thermoplastic trays can be. Not only does this option allow for unparalleled support and protection, but it also reduces the time required for shipping prep.

Consider Security

For international shipping, security packaging can be necessary to prevent theft. Water-activated tape, tamper-evident seals, secure enclosures, locks, and even GPS tracking for containers can reduce the risk of unauthorized access to high-value components.

Discover Ideal Solutions for Shipping Electronics

It’s worth taking the time to learn how to ship electronics with the right packaging, materials, and protective layers. At Ready-Made Plastic Trays, we’re experts in developing custom solutions for the electronics industry. Discover cost-effective antistatic and impact-resistant trays for your operations today. Contact us to request a free sample.