Fragility, value and shipping method determine packaging preparation

Pak Mail prepares items for packing and shipping based on several factors including fragility, value, and shipping method. Packaging prep for non-fragile items like clothing or soft toys is simple: place the items in a bag to keep them clean, then into the appropriate box for shipping with UPS, FedEx, DHL, USPS, or freight. Easy!

Packaging preparation for shipping other items is a little more complicated. The shipping method — freight on a pallet or small package — is the first consideration.

1. Freight on a pallet: Small pieces of framed artwork require glass mask, small bubble, and corrugated sandwiches. A small amount of cushioning material will keep them safe during transport. These pieces shipped with the furniture shown in #4. This same artwork shipped as a small package requires two inches of protection around all dimensions (large bubble and packing peanuts).
2. Small package with FedEx ground: High-value artwork needs soft foam on the plaster frame, acid-free paper on the painting, and Styro lining before being placed in a custom wooden crate.
3. Freight on a pallet: Van conversion kits from Wayfarer Vans are wrapped in felt blankets and placed in custom corrugated boxes.
4. Freight on a pallet: Delicate furniture is wrapped in a felt blanket before placing in a Styro-lined box.

1. preparing framed artwork

2. preparing high-value artwork for crate

3. preparing van conversion kit

4. preparing fine furniture

Tip on how to opt out of weekend delivery

The holidays are rapidly approaching. Tinsel and twinkling lights abound — started in late summer. Our thoughts turn to gift giving. Shopping on the internet from home increases by leaps and bounds. Online merchants don’t always help you choose a secure delivery location for packages. Some, like Amazon, have weekend delivery set as the default. This includes instructions from Amazon to the US Postal Service to leave packages unattended outside a closed business.

Pak Mail discovered this delivery practice and developed a tip sheet to opt out of weekend delivery. Check your delivery options carefully when placing an online order.

Amazon USPS package