How to wrap packages for mailing?

To wrap packages for mailing, use a sturdy box, cushion items separately with bubble wrap or packing paper, fill voids to prevent shifting, seal securely with strong packing tape (avoiding twine/string), and use a clear, single shipping label, placing a duplicate label inside the box. Wrap fragile items heavily and ensure no old labels, barcodes, or string are visible for safe transit through mail processing equipment.

Does the USPS accept wrapped boxes?

Use enough 2-inch-wide packing tape to close and secure all seams. (But please don't wrap your box in string, cord, or twine, which gets caught in USPS sorting equipment.) Packages can't be larger than 130” total length (the longest side) + girth (the distance around the package, perpendicular to the length).

Will UPS accept wrapped packages?

Use strong tape designed for shipping. Never use string or paper over-wrap. Wrap all items separately. Remove or conceal any labels, hazardous materials indicators and other previous shipment markings on the box that are no longer applicable.

Will USPS let you use packing tape?

Yes, you can tape your package at the post office, and they often sell packing tape and provide free Priority Mail tape, but it's best to have your package sealed with proper clear packaging tape before you go; you can use your own or buy it there, as masking or duct tape isn't strong enough and Priority Mail boxes must be taped securely with USPS tape. 

Does USPS give you free packaging?

Yes, the USPS offers free packaging, but only for specific services like Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express, including boxes, envelopes, and labels, which you can order online or get at a post office for items shipped with those services. You must use the USPS-branded packaging for its intended service (e.g., Priority Mail boxes for Priority Mail) and pay for postage when you mail the package.
 

HOW TO: Wrap a package to mail through USPS, UPS, DHL, OnTrac, or any other US service

Is it cheaper to use my own box or USPS box?

Using your own box with USPS is often cheaper for lightweight items or specific sizes, especially with Priority Mail Cubic, but Flat Rate boxes are better for heavier items or when maximizing distance (shipping far away) because they have one price regardless of weight up to 70 lbs. The cheapest method depends on your package's weight, size, and destination, so comparing weight-based rates (using your own box) against Flat Rate is key. 

Does UPS give you free packaging?

No, UPS generally does not pack your items for free; you pay for the packaging materials and service at a UPS Store, which offers professional packing (for a fee) and guarantees it under their Pack & Ship Guarantee if materials are purchased there. You can get free packaging supplies (like Express boxes/envelopes) from UPS for certain services, but packing the item for you is a paid service. 

Can I ship something in just bubble wrap?

Paper wrapping is not recommended; it can catch and tear off in mail processing equipment. Parcels (including fragile items) should be prepared to withstand normal mail processing and transportation. Contents can be padded with newspaper, Styrofoam, bubble wrap, tissue and ink-free packing paper.

How to get free packing tape?

You can get free packing tape by requesting it from USPS (for Priority Mail), checking online marketplaces like Facebook/Craigslist/Freecycle for local offers, asking friends/neighbors, or checking with large offices/retail stores that receive frequent shipments, especially stores like liquor stores and bookstores that often have leftover boxes and tape. 

What is acceptable packaging for USPS?

For acceptable USPS packaging, use sturdy boxes (like corrugated fiberboard) with plenty of cushioning (newspaper, foam peanuts, bubble wrap), seal with strong packaging tape (avoiding duct/masking tape), and completely cover old labels; ensure packages aren't overly large (under 130" length+girth generally) and avoid twine, as paper wrapping and gift wrap tear easily in machinery. Priority Mail/Express have free, specific boxes but require USPS labels for those services. 

Will UPS wrap my package for me?

We can pick it up, wrap it, crate it and load it.

Can I send a parcel in just bubble wrap?

It's important that fragile items are carefully wrapped as our scanners can't detect 'fragile' or 'handle with care' labels. You could choose: Bubble wrap – reuse bubble wrap you have at home to keep precious items extra safe. Newspaper – use layers of newspaper sheets from yesterday's news to fold around your items.

What packages will the USPS not accept?

USPS won't accept dangerous items like explosives, gasoline, marijuana, large amounts of ammunition, or poisons, plus restricted things like alcoholic beverages, some aerosols, cigarettes, and mercury, and certain electronics with lithium batteries (without proper packaging). Packages must also meet physical limits (under 70 lbs, appropriate size) and be packaged to withstand transit, avoiding weak tapes like masking or duct tape. 

Do post offices give you packaging?

Most Post Office branches stock a range of packaging materials, including envelopes, boxes and tape. Our postmasters and branch teams can help you find what you need.

Can I walk into USPS and get free boxes?

Most Post Office™ retail locations provide free Priority Mail® and Priority Mail Express® packaging supplies for customer pick-up. USPS-produced packaging is not eligible for shipping mailable hazardous material or live animals.

Does Dollar Tree carry packaging tape?

Yes, Dollar Tree definitely has packing tape, offering various types like clear carton sealing tape, heavy-duty options, and even some branded names like Scotch (3M) and their own brands like Jot and Tool Bench, often available in different sizes and with dispensers. They are a good source for affordable packing and mailing supplies for shipping, moving, or general use. 

How to get a lot of cardboard for free?

Big box stores: Retailers like Walmart, Target, Costco and Best Buy receive loads of cardboard boxes every day as they constantly stock and restock merchandise. It's a little-known secret that if you visit Walmart after 10 p.m., you can get loads of broken-down boxes.

Can I wrap a box in brown paper to ship USPS?

Yes, you can wrap a box in brown paper for USPS, but it's strongly discouraged because the paper and labels often tear or get snagged in mail processing equipment, risking lost packages. If you must use paper, secure it thoroughly with strong packing tape, ensure the address is also written on the box itself underneath the paper, and avoid twine or cord. Using a sturdy, plain box is always the safest option for the USPS. 

Can I send packages in a plastic bag?

If you are reusing heavy plastic bags from an online retailer, it's best to turn them inside out. Black bin-liners and thin polythene, standard shopping bags should not be used, even as a covering for a box as they can rip easily and the label may get torn off as a result.

Is it cheaper to use your own box or UPS box?

It's a trade-off: carrier boxes (like USPS Flat Rate/UPS Simple Rate) are often cheaper for heavy, compact items because the price is fixed by size, not weight; but your own boxes are usually better for lightweight items or bulky items to avoid dimensional weight charges and save money on packaging material costs, especially when shipping long distances. Always compare by weight, size, and destination zone. 

Do I need to bring my own box to The UPS Store?

No problem! We have a variety of boxes, envelopes and other packaging options to ensure your items arrive intact. At The UPS Store, you can send more and worry less. As long as our certified experts pack and ship your item at a participating store, your shipment is backed by our Pack & Ship Guarantee.

How much does UPS charge to pack things?

Fortunately, UPS PAK options are entirely free of charge. Instead of spending an arm and a leg on the packaging, UPS can help cut costs when packaging your items. Though if you're looking for custom options like adding your logo to your shipping box, you'll have to pay extra.