Here are some things to keep in mind when packaging your items for shipping:
Selecting the Right Box
Choose a box that is slightly larger than the item you are sending, so that you will be able cushion the item with packing material on all sides. . If you are re-using a box, remove or cover all leftover labels and markings to avoid any delivery delays, especially when mailing to a destination outside of Canada.
Packing the Item
Use protective materials like newspaper, bubble wrap, and foam “peanuts” to help prevent any movement of the item inside the box.. Close and shake the box to check whether you have enough cushioning. Add more packing materials if the item shifts. Include a shipping label inside the box.
Sealing the Box
Firmly seal your box with clear or brown packaging tape, reinforced packing tape or paper tape that is at least two inches wide. Do not use masking tape, cellophane tape, cord, string, or twine.
Tape the opening of the box and reinforce all seams.
Labeling the Box
Properly label the box with a complete address and include a return address. Affix labels to an even, flat surface of your package. If you are reusing a box, cover any previous labels or cross out any previous address information with a heavy black marker.
If you are using shipping labels generated through eBay’s Online Shipping, verify that the label has been printed correctly, giving special attention to the barcode as well as the "Ship From" and the "Ship To” address fields. Then, affix the label to an even, flat surface on the box, and make sure that the barcode on the label does not wrap around edges or corners. DO NOT cover any information on your online shipping label, as this may cause delivery delays.
Bare Metals: Completely tape the address label to the item being shipped. Do not use "flying tags." Cover sharp or protruding edges with taped-on corrugated cardboard pieces.
Fabric and Wallpaper: Rolled goods travel best when shipped in corrugated boxes. If a fabric roll is shipped in a bag, make sure the bag is tightly wrapped and taped to reduce the risk of tearing. Place duplicate labels inside core or between top layers of material.
Tires: Apply a wide band of pressure-sensitive tape through the center and completely around the body of the tire so that the tape is attached to itself. Attach address label to the tape band where it covers the tread, and cover with clear tape.
Note: Be sure and check with your carrier about any specific packing requirements. Some carriers assess additional handling charges for:
Any article that is not fully encased in an outside shipping container.
Any article that is encased in an outside shipping container made of metal or wood.
Cans or pails that are not fully encased in a shipping container of corrugated cardboard.
Irregularly shaped or oversized items.
Note: These tips are general guidelines. eBay cannot be held responsible if your item is damaged in transit.
