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.
Addressing
Type or print all addresses.
Additional advice
Check out the post office's wrapping items. They're made for the mail.
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.
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.
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.