The iGuide Safe Shipping Guide — How to Ship Like a Pro

You've made a sale, now what? More people than ever are downsizing and finding extra cash in their attic, basement, or storage unit. But once you've made an online sale, it's time to pack and ship. iGuide's Safe Shipping Guide helps you do the job right so your valuables arrive undamaged. Follow this guide to ship like a pro.

Rule #1

Never underestimate the ability of a delivery service to mishandle packages. Valuables are FRAGILE, so careful packing is essential for safe delivery.

Limit the Weight

Most experts agree that a package shouldn't weigh more than 20-22 pounds. Heavier packages have a higher risk of bursting during transit.

Get the Right Shipping Supplies

You'll save yourself a lot of hassle by using the proper shipping materials.

Bubble Wrap

Buy a roll of bubble wrap at Lowe's, Home Depot, or Walmart.
- Pro Tip: Walmart has a great price on 100 ft rolls of bubble wrap.
- Wrap each item thoroughly.

Boxes

Place the wrapped items in a large, DOUBLE-WALLED box.
- Pro Tip: Buy the "Small Heavy Duty" box from Lowe's (16x12x12).
- Don't pack too tightly.
- Do pack tightly enough that contents can't shift around inside.
- Fill empty spaces with wads of bubble wrap to secure the items.

Tape

- Use heavy duty clear shipping tape, not flimsy Magic or masking tape.
- Pro Tip: Buy Duck brand EZ Pull Clear Shipping Tape at Walmart.
- For heavy packages, use Gorilla Tape and clear tape both. Recommended: Gorilla brand heavy black tape at Walmart.
- Seal the box completely. All open edges and seams should be COMPLETELY sealed with HEAVY-DUTY clear or black packing tape. Do it right.

Include Your Details

Always include a copy of your invoice or a note with your name, address, email, and phone number inside the package. This is very important. Include a copy of email correspondence if possible. In the unlikely event your shipping label is damaged and the carrier has to open the package this paperwork enables them to contact you.

Attach the Shipping Label

- Attach the shipping label securely to the box.
- Cover the label completely with clear shipping tape.

Tracking, Insurance, Signature Confirmation

- Signature Confirmation Get Signature Confirmation so your package isn't left in a mailbox or on a porch all day. If nobody is home the delivery person will leave a notice and return the package back to safe storage.

- Insurance Insurance is expensive but worth the investment in the unlikely event your parcel is lost or damaged.

- Tracking Number Keep your register receipt and use its tracking number online to follow your parcel as it travels to its destination.

Nosy Counter Clerks

Clerks are allowed to ask if your package contains anything flammable, hazardous or perishable... that's fine. But they should NEVER ask what's inside the package.
Wrong Answer: My grandfather's rare coin collection.
Right Answer: Nothing flammable or hazardous.

All Set?

By following this guide, you'll ensure safe delivery of your valuables to their new home.

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