Documents, Labeling & Packing Guidelines

Personal Effects Shipping

Proper documentation, clear labeling, and correct packing are essential to ensure smooth customs clearance, safe handling, and accurate delivery of your shipment. Please review the guidelines below carefully before placing your booking.

Documentation with IHL Edge​

With the IHL Edge Online Booking System, all required shipping documents are automatically generated using the information you provide during the booking process. This helps ensure accurate documentation, reduces manual errors, and supports faster and smoother customs clearance.

Accurate and consistent documentation plays a critical role in avoiding delays and unnecessary inspections.

 

Customer Responsibility – Documentation

It is the sender’s responsibility to ensure that all information entered during booking is accurate, complete, and truthful.

Incorrect or missing details may result in:

  • Delays in customs clearance

  • Additional charges

  • Rejection or holding of the shipment

Tip: Always double-check all entries before submitting your booking.

Required Documents

The following documents are generally required for personal effects shipments:

Mandatory Documents

  • Copy of Sender’s Passport or valid photo ID

  • Copy of Receiver’s Passport or National ID

  • Packing List (itemised list of contents)

  • Booking Reference / Shipping Confirmation (generated via IHL Edge)

Additional Documents (If Required)

  • Authorisation letter (if sender and receiver are different)

  • Power of Attorney (if requested by customs)

  • Purchase receipts for new or high-value items

Customs authorities may request additional documentation at their discretion.

Labeling Guidelines​

Labeling is just as important as documentation. Proper labeling ensures your shipment is identifiable, traceable, and delivered correctly.

Each package must clearly display:

  • Receiver’s full name

  • Delivery address

  • Contact number

  • Destination country and city

  • Box number (e.g. Box 1 of 5)

All labels must be clearly legible and securely attached.

For fragile items, appropriate handling labels such as Fragile or This Side Up should be clearly marked.

 


Customer Responsibility – Labeling

Customers are responsible for ensuring all packages are correctly and clearly labeled.
Incorrect or missing labels may result in:

  • Delivery delays

  • Misdelivery

  • Damage during handling

Packing Guidelines​

Customers are responsible for correctly packing and labeling all packages. Incorrect labeling may cause delays, misdelivery, or damage.

Understanding Standard and Non-Standard Boxes

We provide a range of cargo box options designed for safe, secure, and compliant international shipping from Australia to Sri Lanka. Interhub Logistics categorises shipments into Standard Boxes and Non-Standard Boxes based on size and dimensions.

Standard Boxes

Our standard Tea Chest boxes are ideal for general household goods, clothing, books, toys, dry food items and personal effects.

Gift Box

Ideal for smaller personal gifts, documents, and lighter items.

Gift Box

Dimensions: 44cm x 41cm x 31cm

Maximum Weight: 15kg

Tea Chest Box

Ideal for smaller personal gifts, documents, and lighter items.

Tea Chest Box

Dimensions: 44cm x 41cm x 61cm

Maximum Weight: 50kg

1/2 CBM Wooden Box

Ideal for medium-sized furniture, appliances, and bulkier items requiring added protection.

1/2 CBM Wooden Box

Dimensions: 120cm x 81cm x 55cm

Maximum Weight: 200kg

1 CBM Wooden Box

Perfect for large items such as furniture, machinery, and bulk shipments that need maximum space and sturdiness.

1 CBM Wooden Box

Dimensions: 120cm x 81cm x 95cm

Maximum Weight: 400kg

Non-Standard Boxes

Non-standard items include boxes or goods that exceed traditional dimensions or require custom packing, including whitegoods, electronics, TVs, sports equipment, and other oversized items.

Examples include:

  • Whitegoods (microwave, oven, fridge, washing machine, fans, air fryers, etc.)

  • Televisions & monitors

  • Large sports equipment

  • Odd-shaped or oversized items

  • Furniture pieces

  • Tools & equipment

These items fall under our Non-Standard Category and must be packed following the guidelines below.

How to Pack Your Box – Step-by-Step Guide

Proper packing reduces the risk of damage during loading, unloading and customs checks.

Choose a Strong Cargo Box

Use high-quality boxes designed for international transport. Interhub boxes are built for long-distance handling.

Pack Efficiently

Fill the box completely. Avoid empty spaces that allow items to move during transit.

Use Protective Materials

Bubble wrap, packing paper, cardboard sheets, foam and cushioning help protect against impact.

Arrange Items Correctly
  • Heavy items at the bottom

  • Fragile items in the middle

  • Light items at the top

Seal the Box Securely

Use strong carton sealing tape. Avoid masking tape, duct tape or electrical tape.

Label Properly

Write shipper and consignee details clearly on the box.

Packing Recommendations for Common Household Goods

Fragile Items

Wrap individually using bubble wrap. Add additional cushioning and ensure items cannot move.

Clothing

Fold neatly or use vacuum-sealed bags to maximise space.

Books

Pack vertically and avoid creating excessively heavy boxes.

Electronics

Use original boxes when available. If not, wrap items thoroughly with bubble wrap and place inside a padded box.

Dry Food

Pack dry, sealed items only. Avoid liquid, oily or perishable food items.

Whitegoods & Large Household Appliances

Non-Standard Items

Whitegoods such as microwaves, washing machines, fridges, ovens, TVs, fans and similar appliances must be packed carefully to avoid damage during shipping.

Packing Checklist
  • Use original manufacturer packaging if available

  • Wrap all sides with bubble wrap or foam

  • Add corner protection for screens and glass

  • Secure loose parts (trays, doors, accessories)

  • Pack cables in a sealed, labelled bag

  • Ensure no internal movement

  • Label as Fragile / Handle with Care

How to Pack a TV for Shipping

Without the Original Box
  • Remove the TV stand

  • Wrap the entire TV in packing paper

  • Add multiple layers of bubble wrap

  • Place the TV inside a strong box

  • Fill empty gaps with foam or soft material

  • Seal securely with strong tape

  • Label Fragile and This Side Up

Sri Lanka Customs Regulations – UPB Cargo

Prohibited Items Under UPB
  • Used mattresses

  • Damaged or unusable furniture

  • Used refrigerators / freezers

  • Used air-conditioning units

  • Scrap or unusable household items

  • Any item not approved under UPB guidelines

Medical Equipment Not Allowed Under UPB

Medical devices, equipment and tools require separate import approval and cannot be sent under UPB.

Mandatory Packing Declaration Form (Effective 01.11.2025)
  • One copy must be placed inside the box

  • One copy must be attached with the shipment documents

  • Non-compliance may result in delays or rejection

Important Notice to Customers

These regulations are issued directly by Sri Lanka Customs and apply to all logistics providers.

General International Shipping Restrictions

  • Hazardous liquids

  • Gas cylinders, aerosols

  • Flammable chemicals

  • Currency, jewellery or high-value items

  • Perishable food

  • Dangerous goods as defined by IATA/IMDG

Need Help?

  • If you require packing assistance, guidance or professional support, our team is here to help.

    Contact Interhub Logistics

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