Shipping and Receiving

Packaging and Shipping Tips          Information from UPS web page

Step 1. Use a Corrugated Box

Whenever possible, use a new box. The more times a box is used, the more it loses its original protective qualities, so a previously used box may not adequately protect your shipment.
If you must reuse a box, make sure it is rigid and in excellent condition with no punctures, tears, rips, or corner damage, and that all flaps are intact. Remove any labels and all other shipment markings from the box.
Choose a box strength that is suitable for the contents you are shipping. Never exceed the maximum gross weight for the box, which is usually printed on the Box Maker's Certificate on the box's bottom flap.

Step 2. Provide Internal Protection

It is important that you cushion the contents of your package properly.
Please be sure that you wrap each item separately. Fragile articles need both suitable separation from each other and clearance from the corners and sides of the box.
Each item should be surrounded by at least two inches (5 cm) of cushioning and be placed at least two inches (5 cm) away from the walls of the box. This will protect your items from product-against-product damage and shield them from the shock and vibration that can be conducted from the exterior of the box to its contents in transit.
Please use proper cushioning material, combined with a strong outer container, to protect your shipment fully. Make sure you use enough cushioning material to ensure that the contents do not move when you shake the container.
Improper cushioning material includes clothing, blankets, and pillows. Instead, please use the materials listed below to cushion and protect your shipment:
Air-encapsulated plastic (bubble pack)

Designed to protect and cushion lightweight items
Used in multiple wraps and layers to ensure that the item is completely protected, especially on corners and edges

Inflatable packaging (air bags)

Used primarily as void-fill materials for lightweight items
Not recommended for items with sharp corners or edges
Extreme hot or cold temperatures may affect the ability of air bags to provide adequate product protection.Expanded polystyrene "peanuts"

Used primarily as void-fill material for lightweight items
Overfill the box with peanuts, gently close the flaps, and seal securely
Do not use with flat or narrow products that may move to the edge or bottom of the carton in transit
Due to the shifting and settling properties of peanuts, it is recommended that a minimum of three inches (8 cm) of cushioning be used around the contents
It is recommended that flat pieces of corrugated fiberboard be used between contents and peanuts to help prevent migration through the peanuts

Engineered foam enclosures

Materials may include expanded polystyrene, polyethylene, polypropylene, or copolymers
Enclosures should be pre-engineered for specific products

Foam-in-place (a foam, sprayed into the box or mixed in packets, that expands and forms a protective mold around contents)
Must be properly used, with even foam distribution around the contents
Select appropriate density of foam to meet packaging needs, which can range from void-fill applications to high-performance cushioning

Corrugated liners and inserts
May be added to the package to increase strength and improve package performance

Crumpled kraft paper

Used primarily as a void-fill material for light-to-medium weight, non-fragile items and items that are suitable for such packing materials
Must be tightly crumpled
Place at least four inches (10 cm) of paper between contents and outer box

Note: Fragile objects -- such as electronics, glass, ceramics, and artwork -- require special packaging for safe shipment. Packages containing these and similar items may require added cushioning or a double box.

Step 3. Close Your Container Securely
Proper closure of your container is just as important as proper cushioning for the safety and security of your shipment.
To close a box securely, do not use masking tape, cellophane tape, duct tape, string, or paper over-wrap. Instead, use a strong tape -- two inches (five cm) or more in width -- such as these types:

Step 4. Use Proper Labeling

  For fast and efficient delivery, keep these points in mind when labeling your package:
Always include the recipient´s postal code with the complete street address. For international shipments, include a contact name, telephone number, and postal code.
You must make every effort to obtain a street address. If a shipper should use a P.O. Box address, the recipient´s telephone number must be included on the label. Your package that is addressed to a P.O. Box may be delayed, will not be covered by any UPS Service Guarantee, and will require an address correction charge. Army Post Office (APO) and Fleet Post Office (FPO) addresses are not accepted.
Please include the apartment or unit number, if applicable.
Place the shipping label on the top of the package. To avoid confusion, place only one address label on the package. If you are using a packing slip, place it on the same surface of the package as the address label.
Do not place the label over a seam or closure or on top of sealing tape.
Remove or cross out old labels or markings on a used box.
Always include your complete return address, including full street address and postal code. For international shipments, include a contact name, telephone number, and postal code.
Place a duplicate label or other form of identification inside your package.

Note: If you are using a mailing tube, place the label horizontally, with each end of the label pointing toward the ends of the tube, so the bar code can be scanned.