Good padding avoids problems in shipping. Most cardboard boxes need 1 to 2 inches of padding:
You can usually get all the styro peanuts and bubble plastic you want free from your workplace -- just ask someone in Receiving.
If your box is exceptionally sturdy, you won't need as much padding. If your box is old, tired, and seeing its last days, use a bit extra -- especially near the top corners, where other boxes are likely to smoosh it.
8 Jan 96 [TSL]