subject: How Do I Package My Items For Shipment? [print this page] When you're using a courier service in Chicago to move your cargo for you rather than moving it yourself or with someone in your own company, you are going to gain many different benefits, such as affordable and reliable shipping rates, and efficient tracking of your packages. However, in order to get that service, you will have to follow a few rules and regulations laid out by the courier company. This is something that is important, because these rules are not only there to help the courier company have an easier time transporting your shipment, but also to help protect your cargo from any damage from the normal rigors of transportation.
If you're unclear at all about what your courier requires of you when it comes to packaging up your shipments, just ask them what the best way to prepare a package for them is. They will probably either just give you some rough guidelines, or, if they have a more strict set of rules, will refer you to their packing guidelines online, or will send you the list via email or fax. The shipping guidelines can basically be divided into two basic areas, packaging, and labeling.
Packaging a shipment properly is important, because there are always going to be a few bumps and bruises sustained by a package in transit, and you want to make sure that your package can survive this kind of treatment. Anything breakable needs to be very securely packed, and most shipping guidelines will recommend that you achieve this by packing any empty space in your packages with shipping foam, packing peanuts, or bubble wrap. Even newspaper can work well for this purpose. If you're shipping anything that is heavy, it is also going to be important that you either ship in a very sturdy box or container, or double box the times.
Shipping guidelines will definitely have rules for labeling your packages as well, because mislabeled packages are the number one reason for shipments going astray. In most cases, you will not be allowed to re-use an older shipping box which has any portion of a former shipping address visible in any way on its surface. You will also usually be required to use the special shipping labels provided to you by the company, which may or may not contain means of electronic identification of your package, such as a bar code or tracking number.
by: Paul McDuffy
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