How to Ship Boxes

At one point or another, everyone has to ship or mail a package, whether it be for work, for holiday presents or for a big move. Packaging and shipping can actually be an art in itself. Sometimes you have items that are difficult to pack, or you simply don't know the best way to send your items.

Things You'll Need

• Black permanent marker
• Clear packing tape
• Bubble wrap
• Packing peanuts
• Cardboard boxes

Instructions

1. Gather your items to be shipped. Select a box that will hold all the items while leaving a little bit of room. You don't want the items to be squashed against each other because if the box ripped or tore in shipping, the items would damaged. To test if the box is the correct size, simply open the box and set the items inside. If there is still some space (but not too much), then the box is perfect.

2. Fold the edges of the box on the bottom if the box is completely flat. Tape the bottom with clear packing tape along the seam or flap lines. Use a couple layers of tape. Next, fill the bottom of the box with a layer of packing peanuts. Lay a sheet of bubble wrap out on a flat surface. Roll the items in bubble wrap one by one and tape closed. Make sure each item is packaged individually, so they don't scratch or scrape each other while being transported.

3. Place your largest items in first, spacing them apart as much as possible. Pour more packing peanuts over them. Place your remaining items in the box, trying to space them all apart. Put more bubble wrap and packing peanuts between items until the box is filled. Close the top of the box. Tape shut along the seam lines with clear packing tape.

4. Wrap the package with packing tape at every weak point or opening in the box. On the upper left hand corner, write your return address in a black marker. In the center or slightly off to the right, write the recipient's name and address in black marker.

5. Take the box to the post office or shipping company. Ask about your mailing options based on when you need it to arrive. Make your selection and pay.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure all flaps and possible openings are closed off.

• Don't leave room in the box for the items to shift around.