Make the checklist fit a repeatable order
Start with one order type you pack often, such as one book, two small accessories or a refill pack. Write down the parts that stay consistent and the details that change. The packaging size and packing method can be reusable. The item variant, quantity, destination, service and label belong to the current order.
Keep the checklist where you pack and use an order reference to connect it with the marketplace record. A paper sheet, a simple spreadsheet or the marketplace workflow can work. Choose one place to record the result so that you can see which orders are awaiting packing, awaiting a label or ready for handover.
The checklist below is a starting framework. Read the exact order instructions and carrier acceptance rules alongside it, especially for marketplace supplied labels, unusual contents or international shipments.
| Stage | Check to complete | Record or visible result |
|---|---|---|
| Pick | Match item, variant, quantity and included parts to the paid order | Order reference beside the picked items |
| Pack | Use the suitable outer and protection, then check fit and closure | Finished package with contents secure |
| Measure | Check packed weight and external dimensions | Numbers used for the selected service |
| Label | Match the issued label to the order and read the whole print | One usable label attached to the correct parcel |
| Handover | Use the booked carrier and permitted location or collection | Receipt, acceptance scan or other evidence supplied |
| Finish | Check the order's tracking and dispatch record | Correct carrier and reference associated with the order |
Pick and pack one order through the critical checks
Read the live order record before picking. Confirm the listing version, colour, size or edition and the quantity sold. Include any parts promised in the listing. Keep that order's reference beside the items until the package has been labelled. For two visually similar products, compare a model code or other distinguishing detail while they are still unpacked.
It can be efficient to prepare empty mailers or lay out wrapping in advance. Keep the item-to-order check at the point you pack. Use a small tray or a defined area for each order if several items are on the bench. Before closing the outer, count the items once and compare them with the order. The purpose of this step is to catch a wrong variation while you can still see it.
Check the package before buying or confirming postage
Use suitable packaging and enough protection to hold the contents in place. Check reused packaging for strength, clean surfaces and old shipping details. After sealing, look at the base and closure, then gently tilt the parcel to check for movement. eBay advises choosing a suitable container with cushioning and secure seams. The exact carrier may add packaging requirements for the selected service or contents. eBay packing guidance
Measure the outside dimensions and weigh the finished parcel. If you have a saved packing method, confirm that this item and packaging match it before using the saved measurements. Extra inserts, a thicker product or a change of box can shift the band. Put a check beside the actual service limits, including any separate locker or drop-off restrictions. Royal Mail weighing and measuring guidance
Match the label to the parcel before the next order
Open the label from the correct order record and compare the delivery destination and reference with the items you just packed. Select the correct paper size and printer, then print one intended copy. Check that the address, service information, barcode and surrounding white space are complete. Fit the full label flat on one suitable face.
If your marketplace gives you a QR code for printing at a shop, keep the code tied to the order and follow the issued instructions. Evri describes using its Print in ParcelShop QR code to produce a label at a participating location. A different order may use a label-free handover route. Read the wording beside the code and confirm that the drop-off location offers that route. Evri Print in ParcelShop
For a damaged or badly sized print, reopen the original label or use the issuer's reprint action. Check the settings and print one replacement. Keep the damaged copy off the parcel and remove any earlier label before the replacement goes on. Royal Mail explains that a reprint after changing label settings reflects those changes. Royal Mail label printing and reprints
Finish the handover and tracking checks
Check where and when the booked service accepts the parcel. Take the correct code if printing at the location, and keep each parcel identifiable until its label is attached. For a collection, have the parcels ready as instructed and confirm which labels or paperwork the collection route supplies.
Keep the receipt, acceptance record or tracking details supplied by the service. A label purchase or a marketplace status change can happen before the carrier receives the parcel, so keep the handover check separate. Match any receipt references to the relevant orders while they are still easy to identify.
Review the marketplace order after handover. eBay uploads tracking automatically for Simple Delivery and eBay Delivery powered by Packlink. For other supported methods, check whether the carrier and tracking reference need to be added manually. Use the order's own instructions on other marketplaces. Check that the reference opens the intended shipment. eBay tracking guidance
Give exceptions a place to wait
Create a visible hold state for an order you cannot finish. Add a short note such as packaging change needed, label reprint needed or awaiting carrier acceptance check. Keep it out of the ready-for-handover group until the missing step is resolved.
If the buyer asks for an address change or a different service, pause and use the marketplace's instructions before changing a label. If you discover a wrong item after sealing, reopen the parcel and repeat the packing, measurement and label checks that the change affects. A clear hold state makes it easier for another person to understand why an order has stopped.
Update the repeatable method when the job changes
For each regular order type, keep the packaging reference, usual packed dimensions, typical weight and the protection used. Add one photograph or short description if it helps reproduce the arrangement. Review that record when the supplier, item or service changes. Recheck a finished sample after any material change.
Keep the live checklist short enough to use for every order. If the same mistake appears more than once, put the check immediately before the point where it can happen. For example, place the item-code comparison before sealing, and the order-to-label comparison before attaching the label. File the completed record in a way that lets you recover the order reference and handover evidence.
Marketplace and carrier sources
Common questions
What should a packing checklist include?
Include the order reference, correct items and quantity, suitable packaging, packed dimensions and weight, label match, carrier handover and tracking record.
Can I print all the labels before packing?
If you batch print, keep each label clearly tied to its order. Compare the destination and order reference with the packed items before attaching a label.
What should I do with a damaged or duplicate label?
Use the issuer’s reprint process where needed. Attach one usable label to the intended parcel and keep the damaged or duplicate copies away from the ready parcels.
Does buying a label prove the carrier has received the parcel?
Keep a separate handover check using the receipt, acceptance scan or other evidence the service supplies. The label and marketplace status may exist before physical handover.
Should I upload tracking manually for every eBay order?
eBay uploads tracking automatically for some label workflows, including Simple Delivery and eBay Delivery powered by Packlink. Check the order and add the correct carrier and reference where required.