Whether you are using UPS, DHL, Canpar or others, here are some tips and hints from your friends at The UPS Store in Leduc to help your package get there in time for the holidays.
Beware of Packaging Perils
Are you a do-it-yourselfer when it comes to packaging?
You can help to ensure that your package arrives safely and on time with these packaging guidelines.
- Always use a new, rigid box with flaps intact.
- Remove any labels, hazardous materials indicators, and other previous shipment markings on the box that are no longer applicable.
- Wrap all items within the package separately using adequate cushioning material such as: packing peanuts and/or bubble wrap.
- Use packing tape designed for shipping to seal all seams on your package, which does not include: scotch tape, duck tape, fabric tape or masking tape.
- Do not use string, brown paper, wrapping paper or paper over-wrap. This can get caught in the various machinery or conveyor belts as it gets sorted for its end destination, and even could get ripped off with your label. Parcels without labels become very hard for the courier to deliver!
- Use a single address label that has clear, complete delivery and return information.
- Place a duplicate address label inside the package, just in case the outside label is lost or unreadable.
Packaging for Those Few Extra Pounds
If you are shipping heavier items, it is important to evaluate your packaging materials to ensure that they are adequate for heavier package contents. Use new boxes that are at their full strength and that have not been compromised by humidity or the wear and tear of previous use. Boxes should be strongly constructed, preferably with seams that are stitched or stapled, not merely glued. Often you will see weight limits printed on the bottom flaps of most boxes.
Seal your box with heavy-duty tape (preferably reinforced), by applying three strips to both the top and bottom of the box, so that the middle seam and the two edge seams are sealed. Use only dense cushioning material to protect your heavy package contents. Crumpled paper won’t protect your shipment effectively because it crushes and shiftes under heavy loads.
Did you know…
Only at The UPS Store in Leduc, we offer a Pack & Ship Guarantee!
Here’s how it works:
- We pack your gifts
- You choose UPS for on-time delivery
- We offer a 100% refund on the value of the contents plus the cost of packaging and shipping*
*When you ship on the store account. Subject to limitations. When you ship UPS.