GB2567656A

GB2567656A - Shipping container

Info

Publication number: GB2567656A
Application number: GB1717119.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: James Wille Joseph
Original assignee: Rajapack Ltd
Current assignee: Rajapack Ltd
Priority date: 2017-10-18
Filing date: 2017-10-18
Publication date: 2019-04-24
Anticipated expiration: 2037-10-18
Also published as: GB201717119D0; GB2567656B

Abstract

A shipping container assembly 10 comprises a first outer container 100, formed by folding blank 1000, a second inner container 200, and a method of coupling the two. The inner container 200 is arranged to receive an article A and the outer container 100 is arranged to receive the inner container 200. The outer container 100 comprises a first part 150 of the coupling member and the second container 200 comprises a second part 250 of the coupling member. The shipping container assembly 10 can be coupled (figure 2a-c) and uncoupled. The coupling parts may be male and female parts and the female part may be an aperture 150 covered by a second sheet of material 110A. Preferably, the inner container 200 is spaced apart from at least one wall of the outer container 100. A dimension (L1, figure 3) of the first container 100 may correspond to a dimension of the second container (L2, figure 5). The inner container 200 may be formed from a blank (2000, figure 6), it could be expandable and outer container 100 may hold more than one inner container 200. A method for assembling the container is provided.

Description

Shipping container

Field

The present invention relates to shipping containers, for example for shipping of articles by parcel delivery services.

Background to the invention

Generally, shipping containers are containers having properties, for example strength, crush resistance, atmospheric protection, suitable to withstand shipment, storage, and handling (referred to collectively herein as shipping). Corrugated boxes are a type of shipping container and account for around 90% of shipping containers in use. Corrugated boxes are formed from corrugated fibreboard, typically comprising a fluted corrugated sheet and one or two flat linerboards. Corrugated fibreboard is lightweight, recyclable, and of sufficient strength for corrugated boxes for shipping a variety of articles.

The United Kingdom parcels market is valued at nearly £10 billion annually, with growth driven particularly by ecommerce sales of articles to consumers and returns of at least some of the articles from consumers. Typically, shipping and return shipping of the articles is by parcel delivery services. Furthermore, a diversity of the articles continues to increase, including fragile and/or high value articles. However, to reduce likelihood of damage during shipping, such fragile and/or high value articles may require specialist shipping containers and/or specialist packing, thereby increasing cost and/or complexity of shipping. In addition, returns by consumers of such fragile and/or high value articles may be problematic, resulting in increased likelihood of damage during return shipping. For example, the specialist shipping containers may be single use only and/or damaged upon opening by the consumers and hence unsuitable for returns. For example, the consumers may lack necessary skills required for specialist packing and hence the returns packed incorrectly and/or inadequately.

Hence, there is a need to improve shipping containers, for example for shipping and/or return shipping of fragile and/or high value articles by parcel delivery services.

Summary of the Invention

It is one aim of the present invention, amongst others, to provide a shipping container which at least partially obviates or mitigates at least some of the disadvantages of the prior art, whether identified herein or elsewhere. For instance, it is an aim of embodiments of the invention to provide a shipping container that better protects articles during shipping. For instance, it is an aim of embodiments of the invention to provide a shipping container that better protects articles during return shipping.

According to a first aspect, there is provided a shipping container assembly comprising a first container and a second container;

wherein the first container comprises a first plurality of first wall portions formed by folding a blank of a first sheet material;

wherein the second container is arranged to receive an article therein;

wherein the first container is arranged to receive the second container therein;

wherein the shipping container assembly comprises a coupling member arrangeable to couple the first container and the second container;

wherein the first container comprises a first part of the coupling member;

wherein the second container comprises a second part of the coupling member;

wherein the shipping container assembly is arrangeable in:

a first configuration wherein the first part and the second part of the coupling member are uncoupled; and a second configuration wherein the first part and the second part of the coupling member are coupled and wherein the second container is arranged within the first container.

According to a second aspect, there is provided a first container for a shipping container assembly comprising the first container and a second container;

wherein the first container comprises a first part of a coupling member arrangeable to couple the first container and the second container.

According to a third aspect, there is provided a second container for a shipping container assembly comprising a first container and the second container;

wherein the second container is arranged to receive an article therein;

wherein the second container is arranged to be received in the first container;

wherein the second container comprises a second part of a coupling member arrangeable to couple the first container and the second container.

According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a first blank arranged to be folded to form a first container according to the second aspect.

According to a fifth aspect, there is provided a second blank arranged to be folded to form a second container according to the third aspect, wherein the second container comprises a second plurality of second wall portions formed by folding a second sheet material.

According to a sixth aspect, there is provided a method of assembling a shipping container assembly according to the first aspect, the shipping container assembly comprising a first container, a second container and a coupling member arrangeable to couple the first container and the second container, the method comprising: forming the first container by folding a first sheet material; and arranging the shipping container assembly in a second configuration wherein the first part and the second part of the coupling member are coupled and wherein the second container is arranged within the first container.

According to a seventh aspect, there is provided a second part of a coupling member arrangeable to couple a first container and a second container for a shipping container assembly comprising the first container and the second container;

wherein the second container is arranged to receive an article therein; wherein the second container is arranged to be received in the first container; wherein the second part of a coupling member is attachable to the second container.

Detailed Description of the Invention

According to the present invention there is provided a shipping container assembly comprising a first container and a second container, as set forth in the appended claims. Also provided are a first container and a second container for a shipping container assembly comprising a first container and a second container. Also provided are a first blank for a first container and a second blank for a second container for a shipping container assembly comprising a first container and a second container. Also provided is a method of assembling a shipping container assembly comprising a first container and a second container. Also provided is a second part of a coupling member. Other features of the invention will be apparent from the dependent claims, and the description that follows.

Throughout this specification, the term “comprising” or “comprises” means including the component(s) specified but not to the exclusion of the presence of other components. The term “consisting essentially of’ or “consists essentially of” means including the components specified but excluding other components except for materials present as impurities, unavoidable materials present as a result of processes used to provide the components, and components added for a purpose other than achieving the technical effect of the invention, such as colourants, and the like.

The term “consisting of” or “consists of’ means including the components specified but excluding other components.

Whenever appropriate, depending upon the context, the use of the term “comprises” or “comprising” may also be taken to include the meaning “consists essentially of” or “consisting essentially of’, and also may also be taken to include the meaning “consists of’ or “consisting of’.

The optional features set out herein may be used either individually or in combination with each other where appropriate and particularly in the combinations as set out in the accompanying claims. The optional features for each aspect or exemplary embodiment of the invention, as set out herein are also applicable to all other aspects or exemplary embodiments of the invention, where appropriate. In other words, the skilled person reading this specification should consider the optional features for each aspect or exemplary embodiment of the invention as interchangeable and combinable between different aspects and exemplary embodiments.

According to the first aspect, there is provided a shipping container assembly comprising a first container and a second container;

wherein the second container is arranged to receive an article therein;

wherein the first container comprises a first part of the coupling member;

wherein the second container comprises a second part of the coupling member;

wherein the shipping container assembly is arrangeable in:

In other words, the shipping container assembly comprises an outer container (i.e. the first container) and an inner container (i.e. the second container). The article to be shipped is contained in the inner container, which is itself contained in the outer container during shipping (i.e. in the second configuration). Furthermore, for shipping, the inner container is coupled to the outer container, by the coupling member (i.e. in the second configuration).

In this way, a likelihood of damage during shipping of the article, such as a fragile and/or high value article, may be reduced without a need for a specialist shipping container, thereby decreasing cost and/or complexity of shipping. In addition, returns by consumers of such fragile and/or high value articles may be facilitated, resulting in decreased likelihood of damage during return shipping. Since the inner container may be reused, likelihood of damage upon opening by the consumers is reduced and/or necessary skills required for specialist packing may not be required. In this way, the returns may be packed correctly and/or adequately.

Hence, the shipping container assembly provides an improved shipping container, for example for shipping and/or return shipping of fragile and/or high value articles by parcel delivery services.

In one example, the first sheet material comprises and/or is corrugated fibreboard. Corrugated fibreboard typically comprises at least one fluted corrugated sheet and at least one linerboard. Corrugated fibreboard is lightweight, recyclable, and of sufficient strength for corrugated boxes for shipping a variety of articles. Corrugated fibreboard may folded by folding and/or crash folding, for example. For example, the first container may be a corrugated box (also known as a carton) comprising the first part of the coupling member.

The first container comprises the first part of the coupling member. The first part of the coupling member may be arranged on and/or in a part of one or more first wall portions of the first plurality of the first wall portions, for example on and/or in an internal surface thereof. The first container comprises the first plurality of first wall portions formed by folding the blank of the first sheet material.

The second container comprises the second part of the coupling member, arranged to couple with the first part of the coupling member of the first container. For example, the second container may comprise a box, a carton, an envelope, a pouch or a bag and the second part of the coupling member may be arranged on and/or in a part an external surface thereof. For example, the second container may comprise an envelope formed from a fibre-based material, having the second part of the coupling member arranged at opposed ends thereof. For example, the second container may comprise a pouch formed from a sheet of a plastics material, having the second part of the coupling member, formed from a fibre-based material and/or a plastics material, coupled to and/or integrally provided respectively, at opposed ends thereof.

In one example, the second container is arranged to extend between opposed first wall portions of the first container in the second configuration. For example, the second container may be arranged to bisect the first container. In one example, the second container is arranged to extend between diagonally opposed edges of the first container in the second configuration.

In one example, the coupling member is a releasable coupling member, whereby the coupling member may be coupled and uncoupled, for example repeatedly. In this way, the second container may be inserted into the first container for shipping, for example, removed by the consumer to remove the article therefrom and subsequently re-inserted into the first container for return shipping.

In one example, the coupling member comprises a mechanical coupling member, for example a female part and a corresponding male part, as described below in more detail. In one example, the coupling member comprises an adhesive coupling member, for example a permanent adhesive, a temporary adhesive, a repositionable adhesive. For example, an adhesive strip may be provided on the first container and/or the second container as at least part of the first part and/or the second part, for coupling to the second part and/or the first part respectively.

In one example, the first part of the coupling member comprises a female part and the second part of the coupling member comprises a corresponding male part. For example, the first part and the second part may be provided by a hook and loop fastener. The female part may be provided by an aperture or a cavity, for example, in the first container. The male part may be provided by a corresponding protrusion or a fold, for example, of the second container. Additionally and/or alternatively, the first part of the coupling member may comprise a male part and the second part of the coupling member may comprise a corresponding female part. Additionally and/or alternatively, the first part of the coupling member may comprise a male part and a female part and the second part of the coupling member may comprise a corresponding female part and a corresponding male part, respectively.

In one example, the shipping container assembly is arranged to be moved from the first configuration to the second configuration by sliding the corresponding male part into the female part. For example, the female part may comprise a slot arranged to slideably receive the corresponding male part therein. In this way, coupling and/or uncoupling of the coupling member may be facilitated

In one example, the coupling member is arranged to resist relative movement of the first container and the second container in 1, 2 or 3 mutually orthogonal directions. In this way, protection of the article during shipping may be improved.

In one example, at least a second part of the second container is arranged spaced apart from at least a first part of one of the first plurality of first wall portions of the first container in the second configuration. In this way, the article received in the second container may be better protected from damage, for example due to a force (for example, a compressive force) applied between opposed first wall portions of the first container.

In one example, a first dimension, for example a first internal dimension, of the first container corresponds with a second dimension, for example a second external dimension, of the second container. In this way, a strength (for example, a compressive strength) of the shipping container assembly may be increased, for example, in a direction between opposed first wall portions of the first container, due to this arrangement of the second container within the first container. In this way, the article received in the second container is better protected from damage, for example due to a force (for example, a compressive force) applied between the opposed first wall portions of the first container. In one example, a plurality of first dimensions, for example a plurality of first internal dimensions, of the first container correspond with a plurality of second dimensions, for example a plurality of second external dimensions, of the second container, respectively.

In one example, the first part of the coupling member is provided, at least in part, by a first aperture in a first layer of the first sheet material. Apertures may be readily formed by diecutting of the first sheet material. For example, the aperture may perforate the first layer of the first sheet material. For example, the aperture may be provided as a slot therein.

In one example, the first part of the coupling member is integral with the first container. For example, the first part of the coupling member may be integrally formed with the first container by folding the first sheet. In one example, the first part of the coupling member is attached to the first container. For example, the first part of the coupling member may be mechanically and/or adhesively attached to the first container using staples and/or adhesive, respectively.

In one example, a second layer of the sheet material is arranged to overlay the first layer. In this way, the aperture does not extend through a first wall of the first container, for example (i.e. a blind hole). The second layer may be spaced apart from the first layer, for example by a portion of the sheet material. The first part may thus comprise a cavity in the first wall of the first container to receive the second part.

In one example, the second container comprises a second plurality of second wall portions formed by folding a second sheet material. The second container may be similarly shaped to the first container. Alternatively, the second container may have a different shape. In one example, the second container is generally envelope-shaped. For example, opposed right and left side wall portions may be provided as edges of mutually-transverse opposed front and rear side wall portions. The opposed front and rear side wall portions may be closely spaced (i.e. confront) when the article is not received in the second container and the opposed front and rear side wall portions may be spaced apart by the article when the article is received in the second container.

In one example, the second container comprises an expansion member, for example a gusset, arranged to enable expansion of the second container. In this way, a size of an article received in the second container may be increased, without requiring changes to the second part of the coupling member. A gusset may be provided by folding a second sheet of a second material, for example.

In one example, the second part of the coupling member is integral with the second container. For example, the second part of the coupling member may be integrally formed with the second container by folding a second sheet. In one example, the second part of the coupling member is attached to the second container. For example, the second part of the coupling member may be mechanically and/or adhesively attached to the second container using staples and/or adhesive, respectively.

The second sheet material may comprise and/or be paperboard, for example.

In one example, the second part of the coupling member is formed by folding the second sheet material.

In one example, the first container is symmetric about one or more orthogonal axes. In one example, the second container is symmetric about one or more orthogonal axes. In one example, the coupling member, the first part of the coupling member and/or the second part of the coupling member is symmetric about one or more orthogonal axes. A symmetrical arrangement of the coupling member may enable the second container to be received in the first container in more than one orientation. In contrast, an asymmetrical arrangement of the coupling member may enable the second container to be received in the first container in only one orientation.

In one example, the first container comprises a plurality of first parts, including the first part, of a respective plurality of coupling members, including the coupling member. In this way, a plurality of second containers may be received in the first container, for example, for shipping of a plurality of articles in respective second containers.

In one example, the shipping container assembly comprises a plurality of second containers including the second container.

According to the second aspect, there is provided a first container for a shipping container assembly comprising the first container and a second container;

The first container may be as described above with respect to the first aspect.

According to the third aspect, there is provided a second container for a shipping container assembly comprising a first container and the second container;

wherein the second container is arranged to receive an article therein;

wherein the second container is arranged to be received in the first container;

The second container may be as described above with respect to the first aspect.

According to the fourth aspect, there is provided a first blank arranged to be folded to form a first container according to the second aspect.

The first blank may also be known as a first net.

The first container may be as described above with respect to the first aspect.

The first blank may be symmetric about one or more orthogonal axes.

According to the fifth aspect, there is provided a second blank arranged to be folded to form a second container according to the third aspect, wherein the second container comprises a second plurality of second wall portions formed by folding a second sheet material.

The second blank may also be known as a second net.

The second blank may be symmetric about one or more orthogonal axes.

According to the sixth aspect, there is provided a method of assembling a shipping container assembly according to the first aspect, the shipping container assembly comprising a first container, a second container and a coupling member arrangeable to couple the first container and the second container, the method comprising:

forming the first container by folding a first sheet material; and arranging the shipping container assembly in a second configuration wherein the first part and the second part of the coupling member are coupled and wherein the second container is arranged within the first container.

The shipping container assembly may be as described above with respect to the first aspect.

According to the seventh aspect, there is provided a second part of a coupling member arrangeable to couple a first container and a second container for a shipping container assembly comprising the first container and the second container;

wherein the second container is arranged to receive an article therein; wherein the second container is arranged to be received in the first container;

wherein the second part of a coupling member is attachable to the second container.

The shipping container assembly and/or the second part of the coupling may be as described above with respect to the first aspect.

Brief description of the drawings

For a better understanding of the invention, and to show how exemplary embodiments of the same may be brought into effect, reference will be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying diagrammatic Figures, in which:

Figure 1 schematically depicts a shipping container assembly according to an exemplary embodiment;

Figures 2A - 2C schematically depict the shipping container assembly of Figure 1, in use;

Figure 3 schematically depicts the first container of the shipping container assembly of Figure 1, in more detail;

Figure 4 schematically depicts a first blank arranged to be folded to form the first container of Figure 3 according to an exemplary embodiment;

Figure 5 schematically depicts the second container of the shipping container assembly of Figure 1, in more detail;

Figure 6 schematically depicts a second blank arranged to be folded to form the second container of Figure 5 according to an exemplary embodiment;

Figure 7 schematically depicts a first container for a shipping container assembly according to an exemplary embodiment;

Figure 8 schematically depicts a first blank arranged to be folded to form the first container of Figure 7 according to an exemplary embodiment;

Figure 9 schematically depicts a second container for a shipping container assembly according to an exemplary embodiment; and

Figure 10 schematically depicts a method of assembling a shipping container according to an exemplary embodiment.

Detailed Description of the Drawings

Generally, like reference signs denote like features, description of which is not repeated for brevity.

Figure 1 schematically depicts a shipping container assembly 10 according to an exemplary embodiment. Particularly, Figure 1 schematically depicts a perspective view of the shipping container assembly 10.

In more detail, the shipping container assembly 10 comprises a first container 100 and a second container 200. The first container 100 comprises a first plurality of first wall portions 110A - 11 OF formed by folding a first blank 1000 of a first sheet material S1. The second container 200 is arranged to receive an article A therein. The first container 100 is arranged to receive the second container 200 therein. The shipping container assembly 10 comprises a coupling member arrangeable to couple the first container 100 and the second container 200. The first container 100 comprises a first part 150 (i.e. 150A, 150B) of the coupling member and the second container 200 comprises a second part 250 (i.e. 250A, 250B) of the coupling member. The shipping container assembly 10 is arrangeable in a first configuration wherein the first part 150 and the second part 250 of the coupling member are uncoupled; and a second configuration wherein the first part 150 and the second part 250 of the coupling member are coupled and wherein the second container 200 is arranged within the first container 100.

Figure 1 shows the shipping container assembly 10 arranged in the first configuration wherein the first part 150 and the second part 250 of the coupling member are uncoupled. Particularly, Figure 1 shows the second container 200 arranged wholly outside of the outside of the first container 100.

As described below in more detail, the first part 150A, 150B of the coupling member comprises a female part 150A, 150B and the second part 250A, 250B of the coupling member comprises a corresponding male part 250A, 250B.

Figures 2A - 2C schematically depict the shipping container assembly 10 of Figure 1, in use. Particularly, Figures 2A - 2C schematically depict perspective views of the shipping container assembly 10 in the second configuration wherein the first part 150 and the second part 250 of the coupling member are coupled and wherein the second container 200 is arranged within the first container 100.

In more detail, Figure 2A schematically depicts the shipping container assembly 10 in the second configuration wherein the first part 150 and the second part 250 of the coupling member are partially coupled and wherein the second container 200 is partially arranged within the first container 100, for example during insertion of the second container 200 into the first container 100 and coupling of the female part 150A, 150B of the coupling member and the corresponding male part 250A, 250B of the coupling member, respectively. In this exemplary embodiment, coupling of the female part 150A, 150B of the coupling member and the corresponding male part 250A, 250B of the coupling member, respectively, is by sliding the corresponding male part 250A, 250B of the coupling member into the female part 150A, 150B of the coupling member, respectively. That is, the shipping container assembly 10 is arranged to be moved from the first configuration to the second configuration by sliding the corresponding male part 250A, 250B into the female part 150A, 150B.

As shown in Figure 2A, a first dimension (i.e. an internal length) of the first container 100 corresponds with a second dimension (i.e. an external length) of the second container 200. In this way, the second container 200 extends (i.e. spans) between the opposed left and right side wall portions 110A, 110B of the first container 100, thereby resisting relative movement of the first container 100 and the second container 200 in an orthogonal direction. Further, in this way, the corresponding male part 250A, 250B of the coupling member are slideably insertable into the female part 150A, 150B of the coupling member. Furthermore, a strength (for example, a compressive strength) of the shipping container assembly 10 may be increased, for example, in a direction between opposed left and right side wall portions 110A, 110B of the first container 100, due to this arrangement of the second container 200 within the first container 100. In this way, the article received in the second container 200 is better protected from damage, for example due to a force (for example, a compressive force) applied between the opposed left and right side wall portions 110A, 110B of the first container 100.

In more detail, Figure 2B schematically depicts the shipping container assembly 10 in the second configuration wherein the first part 150 and the second part 250 of the coupling member are fully coupled and wherein the second container 200 is fully arranged within the first container 100.

As shown in Figure 2B, another first dimension (i.e. an internal height) of the first container 100 corresponds with another second dimension (i.e. an external height) of the second container 200. In this way, the second container 200 extends (i.e. spans) between the lower wall portion 11 OF and the upper wall portion 110E of the first container 100, thereby resisting relative movement of the first container 100 and the second container 200 in an orthogonal direction. Furthermore, a strength (for example, a compressive strength) of the shipping container assembly 10 may be increased, for example, in a direction between the opposed lower wall portion 11 OF and the upper wall portion 110E of the first container 100 (when closed), due to this arrangement of the second container 200 within the first container 100. In this way, the article received in the second container 200 is better protected from damage, for example due to a force (for example, a compressive force) applied between the lower wall portion 110F and the upper wall portion 110E of the first container 100.

As shown in Figure 2B, the second container 200 bisects the first container 100 whereby front and rear side wall portions 210C, 210D of the second container 200 are spaced apart from, and parallel to, the opposed front and rear side wall portions 110C, 110D of the first container. That is, at least a second part (i.e. the front and rear side wall portions 210C, 210D) of the second container 200 is arranged spaced apart from at least a first part of one of the first plurality of first wall portions (i.e. the front and rear side wall portions 110C, 110D) of the first container 100 in the second configuration. In this way, the article received in the second container 200 is better protected from damage, for example due to a force (for example, a compressive force) applied between the opposed front and rear side wall portions 110C, 110D of the first container 100.

In more detail, Figure 2C schematically depicts the shipping container assembly 10 in the second configuration wherein the first part 150 and the second part 250 of the coupling member are fully coupled and wherein the second container 200 is fully arranged within the first container 100. As shown in Figure 2A, a sealing wall portion 220 is coupled to a front side wall portion 210C of the second container 200.

Removal of the second container 200 from the first container 100 is by uncoupling of the female part 150A, 150B of the coupling member and the corresponding male part 250A, 250B of the coupling member, respectively, by sliding the corresponding male part 250A, 250B of the coupling member out of the female part 150A, 150B of the coupling member, respectively. That is, the coupling member comprising the first part 150A, 150B and the second part 250A, 250B is a releasable coupling member, whereby the coupling member may be coupled and uncoupled, for example repeatedly.

Figure 3 schematically depicts the first container 100 of the shipping container assembly 10 of Figure 1, in more detail. Particularly, Figure 3 schematically depicts a perspective view of the first container 100. Reference signs refer consistently also to Figure 4. The first container 100 comprises the first plurality of first wall portions 110A - 11 OF formed by folding the first blank 1000 of the first sheet material S1. The first container 100 is generally cuboidal. The upper wall portion 110E provides a closeable lid. The first plurality of first wall portions 110A - 11 OF define a cuboidal internal volume to receive the second container 200 therein.

The lower wall portion 11 OF is rectangular, having a length L1 and a width W1. The opposed left and right side wall portions 110A, 110B respectively, are rectangular, having the width W1 and a height H1, are arranged at opposed ends of the lower wall portion 11 OF and delimited therefrom by edges 111 A, 111B respectively. The opposed front and rear side wall portions 110C, 110D respectively, are rectangular, having the length L1 and the height H1, are arranged at opposed sides of the lower wall portion 11 OF and delimited therefrom by edges 111C, 111D respectively. The upper wall portion 110E is rectangular, having the length L1 and the width W1, and is arranged adjacent to the rear side wall portion 110D, delimited therefrom by an edge 111E. The sealing wall portion 120 is generally rectangular, having a length 11 (where 11 is at most L1) and a height hi (where hi < H1), is arranged adjacent to the upper wall portion 110E and delimited therefrom by an edge 121. The sealing wall portion 120 includes a pair of perforated tear lines 122 at each end.

Opposed left and right inner side wall portions 152A, 152B respectively, are rectangular, having the width W1 and the height H1, are arranged adjacent to the opposed left and right side wall portions 110A, 110B respectively and delimited therefrom by edges 151 A, 151B respectively. T-shaped apertures 150A, 150B, having a width 2 x T1, are provided in the left and right inner side wall portions 152A, 152B respectively, extending along the W1 axis from the edges 151 A, 151B respectively towards edges of the left and right inner side wall portions 152A, 152B respectively and along the edges 151 A, 151B respectively. Rectangular protrusions 130A, 130B extend away from the edges of the left and right inner side wall portions 152A, 152B respectively, and are arranged to be inserted into corresponding rectangular apertures 140A, 140B, having a width T1, provided along the edges 111 A, 111B respectively, when the first blank 1000 is folded to form the first container 100, to thereby secure a folded shape of the first blank 1000. That is, the first part 150A of the coupling member is provided, at least in part, by the first aperture 150A in the first layer (i.e. the left inner side wall portion) 152A of the first sheet material S1. In addition, the second layer (i.e. the left side wall portion) 110A of the sheet material S1 is arranged to overlay the first layer 152A, when the first blank 1000 is folded to form the first container 100.

Adjacent triangular front left spacer side wall portions 154A, 156A, delimited mutually by edge 155A, extend between orthogonal edges of the left side wall portion 110A and the front side wall portion 110C, delimited therefrom by edges 153A, 157A respectively. Front right spacer side wall portions 154B, 156B, rear right spacer side wall portions 154C, 156C and rear left spacer side wall portions 154D, 156D are similarly provided, as are edges 153B - 153D, 155B - 155D and 157B - 157D. Upon folding the first blank 1000, the front left spacer side wall portions 154A, 156A and the rear left spacer side wall portions 154D, 156D are arranged between the left side wall portion 110A and the inner left side wall portion 152A, thereby spacing apart the left side wall portion 110A and the inner left side wall portion 152A by a distance D1 corresponding to twice the thickness T1 of the first sheet S1. Similarly, upon folding the first blank 1000, the front right spacer side wall portions 154B, 156B and the rear right spacer side wall portions 154C, 156C are arranged between the right side wall portion 110B and the inner right side wall portion 152B, thereby spacing apart the right side wall portion 110B and the inner right side wall portion 152B by a distance D1 corresponding to twice the thickness T1 of the first sheet S1. By spacing apart the left side wall portion 110A and the inner left side wall portion 152A, a cavity CA of width D is defined, to receive the second part 250A of the coupling member, through the first aperture 150A of the first part 150A of the coupling member. Similarly, by spacing apart the right side wall portion 110B and the inner right side wall portion 152B, a cavity CB of width D is defined, to receive the second part 250B of the coupling member, through the first aperture 150B of the first part 150B of the coupling member. That is, the first part 150A, 150B of the coupling member comprises female parts 150A, 150B respectively, provided by the respective first apertures 150A, 150B and the respective cavities CA, CB.

Figure 4 schematically depicts a first blank 1000 arranged to be folded to form the first container 100 of Figure 3 according to an exemplary embodiment. Particularly, Figure 4 schematically depicts a plan view of the first blank 1000. For consistency, like reference signs indicate like features of the first blank 1000 and the first container 100.

In more detail, the first blank 1000 is of a first sheet material S1 of a thickness T1, specifically corrugated fibreboard, diecut as a single piece therefrom. Fold lines, indicated generally by solid lines in Figure 4, are provided between the first plurality of first wall portions 110A 11 OF, as described below and correspond with edges of the first container 100, as described above. The first blank 1000 is symmetrical about a longitudinal axis YY. Except for the upper wall portion 110E and a sealing wall portion 120, the first blank 1000 is otherwise symmetrical about a transverse axis XX, orthogonal to the longitudinal axis YY.

The lower wall portion 11 OF is rectangular, having a length L1 and a width W1. The opposed left and right side wall portions 110A, 110B respectively, are rectangular, having the width W1 and a height H1, are arranged at opposed ends of the lower wall portion 11 OF and delimited therefrom by fold lines 111 A, 111B respectively. The opposed front and rear side wall portions 110C, 110D respectively, are rectangular, having the length L1 and the height H1, are arranged at opposed sides of the lower wall portion 110F and delimited therefrom by fold lines 111C, 111D respectively. The upper wall portion 110E is rectangular, having the length L1 and the width W1, and is arranged adjacent to the rear side wall portion 110D, delimited therefrom by a fold line 111E. The sealing wall portion 120 is generally rectangular, having a length 11 (where 11 is at most L1) and a height hi (where hi < H1), is arranged adjacent to the upper wall portion 110E and delimited therefrom by a fold line 121. The sealing wall portion 120 includes a pair of perforated tear lines 122 at each end.

Opposed left and right inner side wall portions 152A, 152B respectively, are rectangular, having the width W1 and the height H1, are arranged adjacent to the opposed left and right side wall portions 110A, 110B respectively and delimited therefrom by fold lines 151 A, 151B respectively. T-shaped apertures 150A, 150B, having a width 2 x T1, are provided in the left and right inner side wall portions 152A, 152B respectively, extending along the XX axis from the fold lines 151 A, 151B respectively towards edges of the left and right inner side wall portions 152A, 152B respectively and along the fold lines 151 A, 151B respectively. Rectangular protrusions 130A, 130B extend away from the edges of the left and right inner side wall portions 152A, 152B respectively, and are arranged to be inserted into corresponding rectangular apertures 140A, 140B, having a width T1, provided along the fold lines 111A, 111B respectively, when the first blank 1000 is folded to form the first container 100, to thereby secure a folded shape of the first blank 1000. That is, the first part 150A of the coupling member is provided, at least in part, by the first aperture 150A in the first layer (i.e. the left inner side wall portion) 152A of the first sheet material S1. In addition, the second layer (i.e.

the left side wall portion) 110A of the sheet material S1 is arranged to overlay the first layer 152A, when the first blank 1000 is folded to form the first container 100.

Adjacent triangular front left spacer side wall portions 154A, 156A, delimited mutually by fold line 155A, extend between orthogonal edges of the left side wall portion 110A and the front side wall portion 110C, delimited therefrom by fold lines 153A, 157A respectively. Front right spacer side wall portions 154B, 156B, rear right spacer side wall portions 154C, 156Cand rear left spacer side wall portions 154D, 156D are similarly provided, as are fold lines 153B - 153D, 155B - 155D and 157B - 157D. Upon folding the first blank 1000, the front left spacer side wall portions 154A, 156A and the rear left spacer side wall portions 154D, 156D are arranged between the left side wall portion 110A and the inner left side wall portion 152A, thereby spacing apart the left side wall portion 110A and the inner left side wall portion 152A by a distance D1 corresponding to twice the thickness T1 of the first sheet S1. Similarly, upon folding the first blank 1000, the front right spacer side wall portions 154B, 156B and the rear right spacer side wall portions 154C, 156C are arranged between the right side wall portion 110B and the inner right side wall portion 152B, thereby spacing apart the right side wall portion 110B and the inner right side wall portion 152B by a distance D1 corresponding to twice the thickness T1 of the first sheet S1. By spacing apart the left side wall portion 110A and the inner left side wall portion 152A, a cavity CA of width D is defined, to receive the second part 250A of the coupling member, through the first aperture 150A of the first part 150A of the coupling member. Similarly, by spacing apart the right side wall portion 110B and the inner right side wall portion 152B, a cavity CB of width D is defined, to receive the second part 250B of the coupling member, through the first aperture 150B of the first part 150B of the coupling member. That is, the first part 150A, 150B of the coupling member comprises female parts 150A, 150B respectively, provided by the respective first apertures 150A, 150B and the respective cavities CA, CB.

Figure 5 schematically depicts the second container 200 of the shipping container assembly 10 of Figure 1, in more detail. Particularly, Figure 5 schematically depicts a perspective view of the second container 200. Reference signs refer consistently also to Figure 6. The second container 200 comprises a second plurality of second wall portions 210A - 21 OF formed by folding a second sheet material S2. The first container 100 is generally envelope-shaped, having the second part 250A, 250B of the coupling member arranged at opposed ends of the second container 200 at the opposed left and right side wall portions 210A, 210B. In this way, a plan view of the second container 200 is I-shaped. Particularly, the opposed left and right side wall portions 210A, 210B are provided as edges of the opposed front and rear side wall portions 210C, 210D. The opposed front and rear side wall portions 210C, 210D are closely spaced (i.e. confront) when the article A is not received in the second container 200 and whereby the opposed front and rear side wall portions 210C, 210D are spaced apart by the article A when the article A is received in the second container 200. The upper wall portion 210E provides a closeable lid. The second plurality of second wall portions 210A - 21 OF define a variable internal volume to receive the article A therein.

The second container 200 comprises a second plurality of second wall portions 210A - 21 OF formed by folding a second sheet material S2. For consistency, like reference signs indicate like features of the second blank 2000 and the second container 200.

In more detail, the second blank 2000 is of a second sheet material S2 of a thickness T2, specifically paperboard, diecut as a single piece therefrom. Edges are provided between the second plurality of second wall portions 210A - 21 OF, as described below. The second blank 2000 is symmetrical about an axis YY. Except for the upper wall portion 210E, a sealing wall portion 220 and a scalloped edge of the front wall portion 210B, the second container 200 is otherwise symmetrical about a transverse axis XX, orthogonal to the axis YY.

The lower wall portion 21 OF is rectangular, having a length L2 and a width W2. An edge 211F extends along the transverse axis XX and bisects the lower wall portion 21 OF. The opposed front and rear side wall portions 210C, 210D respectively, are rectangular, having the length L2 and the height H2, are arranged at opposed sides of the lower wall portion 21 OF and delimited therefrom by edges 211C, 211D respectively. The front wall portion 210B has a scalloped edge. The upper wall portion 210E is trapezoidal, having a base length L2 and a width w2 (where w2 < W2), and is arranged adjacent to the rear side wall portion 210D, delimited therefrom by an edge 211E. The sealing wall portion 220 is trapezoidal, having a base length less than L2 and a width less than w2, is arranged adjacent to the upper wall portion 210E and delimited therefrom by an edge 221. The opposed left and right side wall portions 210A, 210B respectively, are provided by the second parts 250A, 250B of the coupling member, as described below.

The second part 250A of the coupling member comprises a corresponding male part 250A and is formed by folding the second sheet material S2. In detail, a rectangular first inner male part 256A, having the height H2 and a length L3, is arranged adjacent to the front side wall portion 210C, delimited therefrom by an edge 257A. A trapezoidal first outer male part 254A, having the base height H2 and a length twice L3, is arranged adjacent to the first inner male part 256A, delimited therefrom by an edge 255A. Similarly, a rectangular second inner male part 256D, having the height H2 and the length L3, is arranged adjacent to the rear side wall portion 210D, delimited therefrom by an edge 257D. A trapezoidal second outer male part 254D, having the base height H2 and the length twice L3, is arranged adjacent to the second inner male part 256D, delimited therefrom by an edge 255D. A square portion 258A is arranged adjacent to the first inner male part 256A and the lower wall portion 21 OF, delimited therefrom by edges 253A and 251A respectively. An edge 259A extends between opposed corners ofthe square portion 258A from the transverse axis XX. A trapezoidal portion 252A is arranged adjacent to the square portion 258A, delimited therefrom by an edge 251 A. Similarly, a square portion 258D is arranged adjacent to the first inner male part 256D and the lower wall portion 21 OF, delimited therefrom by edges 253D and 251D respectively. An edge 259D extends between opposed corners ofthe square portion 258D from the transverse axis XX. A trapezoidal portion 252D is arranged adjacent to the square portion 258D, delimited therefrom by an edge 251D.

Similarly, the second part 250B ofthe coupling member comprises a corresponding male part 250B and is formed by folding the second sheet material S2, as described above for the second part 250A. In detail, a rectangular first inner male part 256B, having the height H2 and a length L3, is arranged adjacent to the front side wall portion 210C, delimited therefrom by an edge 257B. A trapezoidal first outer male part 254B, having the base height H2 and a length twice L3, is arranged adjacent to the first inner male part 256B, delimited therefrom by an edge 255B. Similarly, a rectangular second inner male part 256C, having the height H2 and the length L3, is arranged adjacent to the rear side wall portion 210D, delimited therefrom by an edge 257C. A trapezoidal second outer male part 254C, having the base height H2 and the length twice L3, is arranged adjacent to the second inner male part 256C, delimited therefrom by an edge 255C. A square portion 258B is arranged adjacent to the first inner male part 256B and the lower wall portion 21 OF, delimited therefrom by edges 253B and 251B respectively. An edge 259B extends between opposed corners ofthe square portion 258B from the transverse axis XX. A trapezoidal portion 252B is arranged adjacent to the square portion 258B, delimited therefrom by an edge 251B. Similarly, a square portion 258C is arranged adjacent to the first inner male part 256C and the lower wall portion 21 OF, delimited therefrom by edges 253C and 251C respectively. An edge 259C extends between opposed corners of the square portion 258C from the transverse axis XX. A trapezoidal portion 252C is arranged adjacent to the square portion 258C, delimited therefrom by an edge 251C.

By folding the blank 2000 along these edges 251A - 251D, 253A - 253D, 255A - 255D, 257A - 257D and 259A - 259D, T-shaped male parts 250A, 250B are provided at opposed ends of the second container 200 from the portions 252A - 252D, 254A - 254D, 256A - 256D and 258A - 258D ofthe blank 2000. These T-shaped male parts 250A, 250B correspond with the female parts 150A, 150B respectively of the first container 100 and together provide the coupling member.

Figure 6 schematically depicts a second blank 2000 arranged to be folded to form the second container 200 of Figure 5 according to an exemplary embodiment. Particularly, Figure 6 schematically depicts a plan view of the second blank 2000. The second container 200 comprises a second plurality of second wall portions 210A - 21 OF formed by folding a second sheet material S2. For consistency, like reference signs indicate like features of the second blank 2000 and the second container 200.

In more detail, the second blank 2000 is of a second sheet material S2 of a thickness T2, specifically paperboard, diecut as a single piece therefrom. Fold lines, indicated generally by solid lines in Figure 6, are provided between the second plurality of second wall portions 210A - 21 OF, as described below and correspond with edges of the second container 200, as described above.. The second blank 2000 is symmetrical about an axis YY. Except for the upper wall portion 210E, a sealing wall portion 220 and a scalloped edge of the front wall portion 210B, the second blank 2000 is otherwise symmetrical about a transverse axis XX, orthogonal to the axis YY.

The lower wall portion 21 OF is rectangular, having a length L2 and a width W2. A fold line 211F extends along the transverse axis XX and bisects the lower wall portion 21 OF. The opposed front and rear side wall portions 210C, 210D respectively, are rectangular, having the length L2 and the height H2, are arranged at opposed sides of the lower wall portion 21 OF and delimited therefrom by fold lines 211C, 211D respectively. The front wall portion 210B has a scalloped edge. The upper wall portion 210E is trapezoidal, having a base length L2 and a width w2 (where w2 < W2), and is arranged adjacent to the rear side wall portion 210D, delimited therefrom by a fold line 211E. The sealing wall portion 220 is trapezoidal, having a base length less than L2 and a width less than w2, is arranged adjacent to the upper wall portion 210E and delimited therefrom by a fold line 221. The opposed left and right side wall portions 210A, 210B respectively, are provided by the second parts 250A, 250B of the coupling member, as described below.

The second part 250A of the coupling member comprises a corresponding male part 250A and is formed by folding the second sheet material S2. In detail, a rectangular first inner male part 256A, having the height H2 and a length L3, is arranged adjacent to the front side wall portion 210C, delimited therefrom by a fold line 257A. A trapezoidal first outer male part 254A, having the base height H2 and a length twice L3, is arranged adjacent to the first inner male part 256A, delimited therefrom by a fold line 255A. Similarly, a rectangular second inner male part 256D, having the height H2 and the length L3, is arranged adjacent to the rear side wall portion 210D, delimited therefrom by a fold line 257D. A trapezoidal second outer male part 254D, having the base height H2 and the length twice L3, is arranged adjacent to the second inner male part 256D, delimited therefrom by a fold line 255D. A square portion 258A is arranged adjacent to the first inner male part 256A and the lower wall portion 21 OF, delimited therefrom by fold lines 253A and 251A respectively. A fold line 259A extends between opposed corners of the square portion 258A from the transverse axis XX. A trapezoidal portion

252A is arranged adjacent to the square portion 258A, delimited therefrom by a fold line 251 A. Similarly, a square portion 258D is arranged adjacent to the first inner male part 256D and the lower wall portion 21 OF, delimited therefrom by fold lines 253D and 251D respectively. A fold line 259D extends between opposed corners of the square portion 258D from the transverse axis XX. A trapezoidal portion 252D is arranged adjacent to the square portion 258D, delimited therefrom by a fold line 251D.

Similarly, the second part 250B of the coupling member comprises a corresponding male part 250B and is formed by folding the second sheet material S2, as described above for the second part 250A. In detail, a rectangular first inner male part 256B, having the height H2 and a length L3, is arranged adjacent to the front side wall portion 210C, delimited therefrom by a fold line 257B. A trapezoidal first outer male part 254B, having the base height H2 and a length twice L3, is arranged adjacent to the first inner male part 256B, delimited therefrom by a fold line 255B. Similarly, a rectangular second inner male part 256C, having the height H2 and the length L3, is arranged adjacent to the rear side wall portion 210D, delimited therefrom by a fold line 257C. A trapezoidal second outer male part 254C, having the base height H2 and the length twice L3, is arranged adjacent to the second inner male part 256C, delimited therefrom by a fold line 255C. A square portion 258B is arranged adjacent to the first inner male part 256B and the lower wall portion 21 OF, delimited therefrom by fold lines 253B and 251B respectively. A fold line 259B extends between opposed corners of the square portion 258B from the transverse axis XX. A trapezoidal portion 252B is arranged adjacent to the square portion 258B, delimited therefrom by a fold line 251B. Similarly, a square portion 258C is arranged adjacent to the first inner male part 256C and the lower wall portion 21 OF, delimited therefrom by fold lines 253C and 251C respectively. A fold line 259C extends between opposed corners of the square portion 258C from the transverse axis XX. A trapezoidal portion 252C is arranged adjacent to the square portion 258C, delimited therefrom by a fold line 251C.

By folding the blank 2000 along these fold lines 251A - 251D, 253A - 253D, 255A - 255D, 257A - 257D and 259A - 259D, T-shaped male parts 250A, 250B are provided at opposed ends of the second container 200 from the portions 252A - 252D, 254A - 254D, 256A - 256D and 258A - 258D of the blank 2000. These T-shaped male parts 250A, 250B correspond with the female parts 150A, 150B respectively of the first container 100 and together provide the coupling member.

Figure 7 schematically depicts a first container 100’ for a shipping container assembly according to an exemplary embodiment. Particularly, Figure 7 schematically depicts a perspective view of the first container 100’. In contrast to the first container 100, as described above, the first container 100’ comprises two (i.e. a plurality) of first parts 150A - 150B, 150A’ - 150B’, including the first part 150A, 150B, of a respective plurality of coupling members, including the coupling member. In this way, the shipping container assembly may comprise two (i.e. a plurality) of second containers 200 including the second container 200. For consistency, like reference signs indicate like features of the first container 100.

In more detail, the first parts 150A - 150D of the first container 100’ are as described above with respect to the first parts 150A - 150B of the first container 100. That is, the first parts 150A - 150B, 150A’ - 150B’of the coupling member comprises female parts 150A - 150B, 150A’ - 150B’respectively, provided by the respective first apertures 150A - 150B, 150A’ 150B’and the respective cavities CA - CB, CA - CB’ . However, rather than extending along the XX axis, the first parts 150A - 150B, 150A’ - 150B’are arranged relatively more proximal the front side wall portion 110C, parallel to and spaced apart therefrom. The first parts 150C 150B, 150A’ - 150B’are arranged relatively more proximal the rear side wall portion 110D, parallel to and spaced apart therefrom. In this way, the first parts 150A - 150B are arranged parallel to and spaced apart from the first parts 150A’ - 150B’.

Figure 8 schematically depicts a first blank 1000’ arranged to be folded to form the first container 100’ of Figure 7 according to an exemplary embodiment. Particularly, Figure 8 schematically depicts a plan view of the first blank 1000’. For consistency, like reference signs indicate like features of the first container 100.

Figures 9A and 9B schematically depict a second container 200’ for a shipping container assembly according to an exemplary embodiment. Particularly, Figures 9A and 9B schematically depict photographs showing a perspective view of the second container 200’. Figure 9B shows an enlarged view of a part of Figure 9A, identified by a dashed bounding box. In Figure 9B, edges and fold lines of the container 200’ are highlighted in white lines, for clarity. In contrast to the second container 200, as described above, the second container 200’ comprises an expansion member 260, provided as a gusset 260A, arranged to enable expansion of the second container 200. A gusset 260B is similarly provided at the opposed end of the container 200’. In this way, a size of an article A received in the second container 200 may be increased, without requiring changes to the second part 250A of the coupling member. The gusset 260A is provided by folding the second sheet of the material. The second part of the coupling member 250A is adhesively attached to the second container 200’. For consistency, like reference signs indicate like features of the second container 200.

Figure 10 schematically depicts a method of assembling a shipping container, for example the shipping container 10 as described above, according to an exemplary embodiment. The shipping container assembly comprises a first container, a second container and a coupling member arrangeable to couple the first container and the second container, for example as described above with respect to the shipping container 10.

At S1001, the first container is formed by folding a blank of a first sheet material.

At S1002, the shipping container assembly is arranged in a second configuration wherein the first part and the second part of the coupling member are coupled and wherein the second container is arranged within the first container.

The method may include any of the steps described herein.

Although a preferred embodiment has been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications might be made without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims and as described above.

In summary, the invention provides a shipping container assembly comprising a first container and a second container, the first container, the second container, a first blank for the first container, a second blank for the second container and a method of assembling a shipping container. In this way, a likelihood of damage during shipping of the article, such as a fragile and/or high value article, may be reduced without a need for a specialist shipping container, thereby decreasing cost and/or complexity of shipping. In addition, returns by consumers of such fragile and/or high value articles may be facilitated, resulting in decreased likelihood of damage during return shipping, since the inner container may be reused, likelihood of damage upon opening by the consumers is reduced and/or necessary skills required for specialist packing may not be required. In this way, the returns may be packed correctly and/or adequately. Hence, the shipping container assembly provides an improved shipping container, for example for shipping and/or return shipping of fragile and/or high value articles by parcel delivery services.

Attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at most some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

1. A shipping container assembly comprising a first container and a second container;

wherein the second container is arranged to receive an article therein;

wherein the first container comprises a first part of the coupling member;

wherein the second container comprises a second part of the coupling member;

wherein the shipping container assembly is arrangeable in:

2. The shipping container assembly according to claim 1, wherein the first part of the coupling member comprises a female part and wherein the second part of the coupling member comprises a corresponding male part, or vice versa.

3. The shipping container assembly according to any previous claim, wherein at least a second part of the second container is arranged spaced apart from at least a first part of one of the first plurality of first wall portions of the first container in the second configuration.

4. The shipping container assembly according to any previous claim, wherein a first dimension of the first container corresponds with a second dimension of the second container.

5. The shipping container assembly according to any previous claim, wherein the first part of the coupling member is provided, at least in part, by a first aperture in a first layer of the first sheet material.

6. The shipping container assembly according to claim 5, wherein a second layer of the sheet material is arranged to overlay the first layer.

7. The shipping container assembly according to any previous claim, wherein the second container comprises a second plurality of second wall portions formed by folding a second sheet material.

8. The shipping container assembly according to claim 7, wherein the second part of the coupling member is formed by folding the second sheet material.

9. The shipping container assembly according to any previous claim, wherein the first container comprises a plurality of first parts, including the first part, of a respective plurality of coupling members, including the coupling member.

10. The shipping container assembly according to claim 9, comprising a plurality of second containers including the second container.

11. The shipping container assembly according to any previous claim, wherein the second container comprises an expansion member.

12. A first container for a shipping container assembly comprising the first container and a second container;

13. A second container for a shipping container assembly comprising a first container and the second container;

wherein the second container is arranged to receive an article therein;

wherein the second container is arranged to be received in the first container;

14. A first blank arranged to be folded to form a first container according to claim 12.

15. A second blank arranged to be folded to form a second container according to claim 13, wherein the second container comprises a second plurality of second wall portions formed by folding a second sheet material.

16. A method of assembling a shipping container assembly according to any of claims 1 to 11, the shipping container assembly comprising a first container, a second container and a coupling member arrangeable to couple the first container and the second container, the method comprising: