Pack Like The Pros Do With These Simple Tips

Pack Like The Pros Do With These Simple Tips

 

Getting your packaging right can play a large part in creating a good impression of your business. So, how do the pros do it – well here is some postal packaging insight from Big Dug

 

Get Rid Of Old Shipping Labels

 

There’s nothing wrong with recycling someone else’s boxes to send your own stuff. It’s the cheapest possible way to get the boxes you need, and it’s even good for the environment. Don’t forget to strip off the last shipper’s labels and bar codes when you re-use a box, though! Sending out a package with multiple labels could result in shipments going AWOL. Even if your shipment gets to its destination, it may take longer due to confusion. Avoiding these hazards makes it well worth the time it takes to remove old labels before sending your own goods.

 

 

Use The H-Tape Method

 

As you might expect, there’s a right way and a wrong way to seal up a box with tape, and the H-tape method is the right way. In the H-tape method, you apply a line of tape along every seam of your package, not just the open flaps. When you’re done, you’ll have an H-shaped pattern of tape visible on the top of your box — that’s where the name comes from.

 

Although taping all the seams might not deliver a pristine H with an irregular box, it’s still a good strategy to employ. Even if you’re using tubes (always handy for shipping long, narrow goods or rolled flat items), make sure both ends of the packing tube are thoroughly sealed with tape.

 

 

Trust The Right Tape

 

Investing in the right kind of tape can save you from a world of different headaches. Tape specifically designed for mailing use is typically made either of reinforced paper or heavy-duty plastic, and the standard width is two inches. Most proper tapes come with a durability grade measured in pounds; you want one that provides at least 60 pounds.

 

Don’t try to skimp by using whatever’s handy, especially if all you have is cellophane tape (i.e. Scotch tape) or masking tape. These light-duty products simply can’t hold up to the rigors of shipping.

 

Duct tape is another no-no. While shippers will frequently handle duct-taped packages, most of them (including UPS, the USPS, and FedEx) all have regulations against it. Possible reasons include the fact that duct tape loses its adhesiveness in cold temperatures and that worn duct tape can leave a sticky residue on shipping equipment. While a duct-taped package might sail through for you, it’s better not to risk it. Stick to products specifically designed for shipping use.

 

Finally, it should go without saying that the days of tying up packages with string or twine are long past. These materials play havoc with modern sorting equipment, and using them can result in badly mangled boxes.

 

 

An Important Note Regarding Newspaper

 

Crumpled-up newspapers are an extremely popular choice for cushioning items inside your packages. Just remember that the ink on newsprint transfers very easily. If you’re shipping something that might be harmed by ink, make sure there’s an impermeable layer between the item and your newspaper cushioning.

 

 

Add Internal Information

 

You should always prepare for the worst-case scenario when packing your boxes. Add a duplicate shipping label or one of your business cards to each shipment you pack up. This gives the shipping company some much-needed assistance if the outside of your package ends up heavily damaged.