How To Pack Your Package

General Rules of Thumb

• Don’t ship air: choose the smallest possible box, mailer, or envelope. 

• If you are reusing a box, remove all old labels and make sure the box has no holes or tears. 

• Use packing tape to seal the box at all seams. Duct, masking, or scotch tape are not acceptable. Tape all seams.

• Place label on largest surface, preferably not over a seam or edge.  

Fragile Items

• Choose a good-quality, new box that allows 2-3 inches of cushioning (air cushioning, padded paper, or foam) on all sides. 

• Strongly consider double-boxing. 

• Wrap items individually. 

• Use enough cushioning to prevent any shifting. Ask yourself, “Will this survive being dropped from 5 feet onto a hard surface?” If not, use more cushioning. 

• Label clearly with “fragile” and “this end up” instructions - even though this does not guarantee how the package will be treated. Note: USPS charges an extra $15 for packages marked “Fragile.”

Lithium Batteries

Batteries must be shipped in their devices. Damaged batteries may not be shipped. Batteries must be shipped via ground carriers. Requires proper labeling. 

Perishable Items

Permissible perishable items are sent at the mailer’s own risk. These items must be specially packaged in waterproof containers and mailed so that they arrive before they begin to deteriorate. 

Domestic packages containing up to 5 pounds of dry ice must be packed in containers that permit the release of carbon dioxide gas. Dry ice packages require proper labeling.