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Whether you are just starting out or already have a successful Web site business, you know that how you package your item is a key element for your customers' satisfaction. A poorly packaged item can lead to everything from additional costs in refunding or replacing the original shipment to a dissatisfied buyer that won't return for a repeat buy. (Or, on eBay, the much-feared "negative" feedback).
I am always being asked: How do you ship an LP Record? What is the cheapest, most effective way to ship clothing? Is there a way to mail photos without having them bent by the postal service? Do I need to double-box my fragile items?
Well, I can't control UPS or USPS, but here are some answers.
How do you ship an LP Record?
LP Records are actually very easy to ship. I recommend first placing the record and sleeve in a poly bag to protect from moisture & dust. Then, you can place this wrapped record between two 12x12 corrugated pads. This will assist in preventing the record from being bent during the transit. Finally, place this sandwiched record in an LP mailer - usually these are 12 1/2" x 12 1/2" and have a variety of depths, depending on how many albums you ship at a time.
(For CDs, whether music or software, you can use CD mailers, which are cardboard mailers of just the right size to send these items).
What is the cheapest, most effective way to ship clothing?
ShurTuff(R) Mailers are ideal for shipping clothing. You can wrap the clothing in tissue paper and then place in these water-resistant, tear-proof mailers. Also, since these mailers are lightweight, shipping these is relatively cheaper than shipping clothing in boxes. ShurTuff(R) Mailers are also known as Tyvek(R) or Poly Mailers.
Is there a way to mail photos without having them bent by the postal service?
Postcards and photos are also simple to mail. There are actually a couple options. You can place the postcard between two corrugated pads and then slide in a bubble mailer. Or, you can purchase StayFlat(R) Mailers. These mailers are difficult to bend and often come with self-adhesive strips.
Do I need to double-box my fragile items?
For glass and other fragile items like vases, I definitely recommend double boxing. You should first wrap your item in bubble wrap and then place it in a box, leaving approximately 2" of space on all sides of your glass piece. Fill this extra space with packing peanuts or a void fill paper, like newsprint or Kraft paper. You should then place this smaller box inside a slightly larger one and again fill the void space.
As you can see, shipping your products in a protected manner is actually very easy to do. And, your customers will be happy to order from you again!
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