It's important to properly cushion the contents of your package. Proper cushioning material, combined with a strong outer container, will protect your shipment.

Wrap each item separately. Fragile articles need both proper separation from each other and clearance from the corners and sides of the box.  This will prevent product against product damage and protect contents from shock and vibration which can pass from the outside of the box to the contents.

A wide variety of materials can be used for cushioning and protection.  These include:

• Air-encapsulated plastic (bubble pack)
• Expanded polystyrene (peanuts)
  Note: This type of cushioning may not be suitable for heavier products that tend to shift toward the bottom of the package while in transportation.
• Foam-in-place (a foam, sprayed into boxes to form protective molds around contents)
• Corrugated dividers
• Paper (crumpled Kraft paper or newspaper)
  Note: Paper is only suitable for lighter products. It tends to flatten when used as cushioning for heavier products.

Use enough cushioning material to ensure that the contents cannot move easily when you shake the box.  Several inches of cushioning material all the way around should do it.

Extremely fragile objects require special packaging for safe shipment!

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Proper closure of your package is as important as adequate cushioning. To close a box securely, use a strong tape that is two inches or more in width, such as the type described below:

• Pressure-sensitive plastic. Generally, the easiest, most convenient tape to use. It is versatile because it will adhere without water, and can stick to a variety of surfaces and shapes. Nylon reinforced variety if also available.
• Water-activated paper tape. Use 60-pound grade tape at least three inches wide.  Apply three strips to both the top and bottom of the box.
• Water-activated reinforced tape. Similar to plain paper tape, except that reinforcing fibers have been added for strength.  Reinforced tape's advantage is that you only need to use two center seam strips, in contrast to the six strips shown in the illustration for paper tape.

DO NOT USE masking tape or cellophane tape. These tapes do not provide the strength necessary for secure closures.

DO NOT USE duct tape. Duct tape will not remain stuck to packages while in areas of high humidity or cold temperatures. In these conditions, the tape will fall off of the box, resulting in loss of package contents.

DO NOT USE string or paper overwrap. They may snag on automation equipment, resulting in lost address information or package contents.

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To ensure proper delivery, keep these important points in mind when addressing your package:

• Always include the receiver's ZIP Code with complete street address.
• When addressing to a P.O. Box or Rural Route destination, provide the recipient's telephone number on the label whenever possible.
• Include the apartment or unit number, if applicable.
• Place the delivery label on the top of the box. ("Top" should be the most stable orientation of the package as it rests on a flat surface.)  To avoid confusion, place only one address label on the box.  If using a pacing slip, place it on the same box surface as the address label.
• Do not place the label over a seam or closure or on top of sealing tape.
• Remove or cross out old address labels or markings on a used box.
• Always include your complete return address - including ZIP Code and full street address.
• For added protection, place a duplicate label or other form of address information inside the package.

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