Packing Tips: How to Safely Ship Your Holiday Gifts
How many times has this happened? You wrap something breakable in layers and layers of newspaper, bury it in packing peanuts, and write “fragile” on the box…only to have it arrive broken.
Sometimes, such damage occurs en route and you just can’t prevent it. But the way you pack it has a lot to do with how intact the item is when it arrives at its destination. Here are some tips for safely shipping your holiday gifts this year.
1. Choose the Right Box
For the green-minded among you, it’s tempting to reuse falling-apart boxes that aren’t in good condition. But choosing a sturdy box that’s as close to new as possible is much better for your item. Remember, when boxes are shipped, they’re stacked on top of each other. You don’t want something heavier to be placed on your flimsy box, only to have it get crushed.
Size matters when it comes to boxes. If you are using a box that’s far bigger than your item, the sides may get pushed in, dented, and otherwise damaged. If your box is larger than the item, make sure you fill it with packing material.
2. Choose the Right Packing Materials
Think lightweight and shock-absorbent when it comes to packing materials. Newspaper is great for wrapping items and filling in spaces, but it is lousy at protecting your package from a fall or from being crushed. Instead, use packing peanuts and bubble wrap. Another trick is to blow air into zip-top plastic bags and seal them, then reinforce the seal with packing tape. Other ideas include wadded-up plastic grocery bags and stiff strips of cardboard.
Don’t be afraid to use what the professionals use. Save packing materials from items you’ve had shipped to your home in the past, and reuse them in your packages.
3. Position Your Item
Try not to leave any space around whatever it is you’re shipping. If it can slide or move about, it’s a lot more likely to get broken. Make sure the top can be closed and sealed; bulges are vulnerable points.
The item shouldn’t be sitting against the bottom of the box, either. If the box gets tossed onto a hard floor (and it probably will), then there’s nothing but cardboard between the item and the jarring impact. So make sure there is cushioning underneath your item as well. To give it a test, close the box but don’t seal it. Then gently shake it. Hear anything? If it’s silent, it’s safer!
4. Use the Right Language
When you mark your box, use words that are universally accepted by shipping companies and the post office, like “handle with care” or “fragile.” Use a thick, dark marker and write clearly.