Have you ever been on the receiving end of a damaged package? Or maybe the package itself wasn’t damaged, but the items inside it were? No matter what the package contents were, finding them damaged is disappointing. Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do to control how mail delivery companies handle your package. But you can do everything in your power to package your items properly to minimize potential damage, should careless handling occur.
In today’s blog post, we’ll be sharing some of our top shipping tips for individuals and small businesses. Many of them include how to best package items, and there are other helpful tips as well.
Top Shipping Tips
Choose the Right Box
Select a sturdy box that is appropriate for the size and weight of your item. When possible, try finding a box that is close to the size of whatever you are shipping. When you package small items in large boxes, the excess room can lead to items shifting and breaking in transit. If you need a small box but can’t find one, just be sure to add enough padding to your large box. Extra newspaper, bubble wrap, and packing peanuts can help fill the space.
Additionally, avoid using old or damaged boxes as they may not provide adequate protection.
Pack Items Securely
No matter how small or big a package is, use appropriate packing materials such as bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or foam inserts to cushion your items and prevent them from shifting during transit. Wrap fragile items individually and place them in the center of the box. Fill extra room on the sides with padding.
Seal the Box Properly
Use strong packing tape to seal all of the seams and edges of the box to ensure it stays securely closed during shipping. Avoid using regular household tape or masking tape, which aren’t as strong. Trust us, it is worth spending the few dollars on packing tape in order to protect your packages.
Label Clearly
Clearly label your package with the recipient’s name, address, and phone number. Don’t forget to include your return address as well. This is important in the event that the package gets lost or delivered to the wrong place. Use a shipping label or a permanent marker to ensure the information is legible and won’t easily smudge or fade.
Choose the Right Shipping Service
Research different shipping carriers and services to find the one that best fits your needs in terms of cost, speed, and reliability. Consider factors such as delivery time, tracking options, and insurance coverage. If you are shipping something locally, consider hiring a courier.
Related Blog Post: How to Choose the Right Shipping Option
Check Shipping Restrictions
Make sure your package complies with any shipping restrictions, such as prohibited items or size/weight limitations. Different carriers may have different rules, so be sure to check with your chosen carrier before sending anything out.
Consider Insurance
If you are shipping valuable or fragile items, consider purchasing insurance to protect against potential loss or damage during transit. Many shipping carriers offer insurance options for an additional fee; oftentimes, the fee is minimal.
Track Your Package
Keep track of your package by using the tracking number provided by the shipping carrier. This will allow you to monitor its progress and ensure it arrives at the correct destination. The tracking number is often located on your purchase receipt, so don’t throw it away.
Consider Shipping Options
Depending on the urgency of your shipment, consider expedited or overnight shipping options for faster delivery. These services may be more expensive, but they will ensure that your item arrives when it needs to.
Be Mindful of Customs
If you are shipping something internationally, be aware of customs regulations and requirements. Fill out all of the necessary customs forms accurately and provide all required documentation to avoid delays or customs fees.
Simplify Shipping with a Local Courier
This might be the best tip of all! Finding a local courier you can trust can save you time, money, and hassle when shipping things. As shipping experts, they can ensure that your items are packaged properly and delivered promptly. Oftentimes, they can offer better prices than other shipping companies.
Read more about the benefits of local courier services.
If you are looking for a local courier in the San Francisco Bay Area, consider Modern Express. We offer a variety of courier services, including same-day delivery, overnight delivery, and even rush delivery.
Follow these shipping tips to ensure that your package is shipped safely and arrives at its intended destination in its original condition. If you’re ready to make your life easier by partnering with a local courier in the Bay Area, we’d love to connect. Contact us today to request a quote or learn more about how our services can benefit you.