How to choose packaging for your item to post

First, you must know that the post office will charge based on weight than volume. However, some special service may use volume to price shipment. In this post I will focus on the traditional method, which is weight based charging. It normally becomes cheaper to post one large item than splitting it into smaller ones. In general, the cut off weight for postal letters and documents is 2 kilograms. Above 2 kilometers items are classed as parcels.

Secondly, know that item is the post office are handled with care but there is some throwing and tossing around of mail bags during processing and transportation. Items that cannot fit into a mail bag are shipped as is, normally as it was packaged by the customer. Fragile items should be clearly labeled so but this does not mean that your item will not be transported in a different vehicle.

Let me now give you the tips:

1. Get a strong package material that will withstand the conditions of mail handling. If your item cannot fit into a mail bag, the size of a standard bag you would have in at your home, try for a hard cover packaging like a box.

2. Choose a package that will fit the contents. Avoid placing loose contents inside a package. If for any reason you have to use a larger package, fill the empty space with fondled paper. Plastic or some very light material.

3. Choose a package fit for purpose. There is a variety of packaging material in the market. Some are cushioned and some are not. Do not compromise on packaging because your item may get damaged. Rather be safe than sorry.

4. Don’t use an over attractive packaging. You don’t what your items to be suspicious to people that will handle your it. This might draw the attention of inspectors who might even engage police sometimes. Anthrax and other forbidden items are still popular in the post office and they are first suspected from the packaging. Your item might also have to be inspected under a controlled environment, thus delaying delivery of your item.

5. A light weight package will save you on postage costs.

Some post offices sell the packaging at their counters and they are best positioned to direct you tot he right shop to get some. Indeed the post office is not dead, get to your nearest post office and enquire on how to package your item for even more specific tips.