Ship smarter on every package.
Practical tips from a counter that handles every kind of shipment — saving money, avoiding damage, and picking the right carrier.
1. Right-size the box
The number one cause of damage is items shifting in oversized boxes. A snug box with proper void fill protects far better than a giant carton stuffed with paper.
2. Double-box anything fragile
Glass, ceramics, and electronics survive transit best with two boxes — an inner box for the item and an outer box with cushioning between them. Our packaging team does this routinely.
3. Compare carriers before defaulting
USPS isn't always cheapest. UPS isn't always fastest. FedEx isn't always best for documents. Each shipment has a best fit — and we can usually save you a few dollars per box just by checking. See how we compare carriers →
4. Insure high-value items
Carrier insurance is cheap relative to replacement cost. For anything over $100, declared value insurance is worth it — and we'll help you file claims correctly if something happens.
5. Plan for international customs
Customs forms aren't optional. The right declaration prevents delays and potential return-to-sender fees. International shipping help →
6. Ship early during peak season
Holiday windows fill up fast. If something must arrive by a date in December, ship by the first week — earlier than the carrier "guarantees."
7. Don't write on the original box
Hide old shipping labels and barcodes — covering them prevents misrouting in carrier networks.
8. For high-value items, get signature confirmation
Signature confirmation prevents "delivered but missing" disputes and confirms a real handoff at the destination.
Bring it in. We'll do it right.
Skip the guessing. Drop your shipment off and we'll pack it, compare carriers, and pick the best fit.