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Last Updated: Jul 2nd, 2008 - 21:15:22 |
(NC)-In The Sound of Music, actress Julie Andrews may have nostalgically sung of "brown paper packages tied up with string..." as one of her favourite things, but they're certainly not a favourite with couriers.
"In today's high-tech shipping hubs, everything is automated and sorting is done by machine. Not only do string and brown kraft paper get caught in conveyor belts, resulting in damage to the package, but the paper can get ripped off and with it goes the address," says Steve Moorman, senior vice president at The UPS Store, Canada's largest retailer of business and packing and shipping services.
To ensure seamless delivery of gifts, Moorman offers "The 12 Tips of Shipping" for those mailing gifts this holiday season:
1. Go With New: Always use a new, corrugated box for shipping. Used ones weaken and can break.
2. No Strings Attached: Do not wrap boxes with string or brown paper.
3. Tiny Bubbles: Bubble wrap and Styrofoam peanuts are the best packing materials.
4. A Cushy Job: For proper protection, cushion all sides of the package with a minimum of two inches of shock absorbing cushioning material.
5. Secure Your Seams: Secure each seam of your box with two inches of packing tape and avoid using masking or cellophane tape - it isn't strong enough.
6. Fragile Fare, Send by Air: Fragile items should be sent via air service to minimize time in transit and reduce the possibility of damage.
7. Double Up: Electronic equipment should be double boxed. Ship in its original packaging but add cushioning materials, such as Styrofoam peanuts, and then place inside another larger box. The original packaging isn't enough protection on conveyor systems.
8. Customs Please: Customs forms need strict attention. And be prepared - serial numbers need to be recorded.
9. Food for Thought: Food can only be sent to the U.S. if it is being sent from one individual, not a company, to another individual.
10. Air Tight Tastes Right: Make sure all foods are sealed in an interior airtight container or plastic bag before putting them in a shipping box. If there are air pockets, items vibrate, break and/or crumble.
11. Have A Greeting Party: Always ensure someone is available to accept your parcel. Many holiday goodwill gestures have been thwarted by vacation schedules and closed offices.
12. Easy Way Out: If time is short, The UPS Store can professionally pack and ship the gifts for you.
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