Posted on: Friday, November 22, 2002

Postal Service tips for getting your packages there safely

• Holiday mailing deadlines fast approaching

If you want gifts to arrive looking their best, cushion them for tough travel with the "box and bubble" method.

Packing

• Use a sturdy cardboard box or container large enough to secure the items being mailed.
• Prevent damage by using shredded or rolled newspapers, plastic "popcorn" or bubble wrap to cushion the contents.
• Before sealing, insert the address on a slip of paper inside the package.
• Secure the package with filament-reinforced tape. Don't use cellophane tape or tie with twine or cord.
• Writing should be in indelible ink or typed on a label and easily readable at arms length.

Addressing

• Type or print all addresses.
• Don't forget floor, suite and apartment numbers.
• Use the two-letter postal abbreviations for states.
• Use only capital letters.
• The Zip code or Zip+4 code may be printed as the last line of the address, below the city and state.

Additional advice

• Check out the post office's wrapping items. They're made for the mail.
• The cardboard packaging from cereal boxes or light bulbs is useful when mailing photographs in small manila envelopes.
• Always use a pen or indelible marker for addressing packages; covering labels with adhesive tape prevents addresses getting smudged in transit.
• Order stamps by mail. They come to your home or office and eliminate at least one trip to a post office.