Pak Mail Offers Holiday Shipping Solutions in the Nick of Time

Professionals in the packaging and shipping industry are gearing up to handle a significant increase in the quantity of packages that will be shipped this holiday season. While it is impossible to predict the volume of holiday travel this season, travelers may likely choose to ship their gifts rather than endure any of the hassles related to carrying packages through airports throughout the country and world.

Individuals not traveling this holiday season may need to seek alternative means to assure their gifts arrive on time and in good condition. Even with the best intentions, add in the issues of varying packaging requirements and holiday shipping and mailing deadlines, gift giving can become a confusing and anxiety producing chore.

These packaging and shipping solutions are offered by the experts at Pak Mail to assist anyone who is unsure about when and how to ship their gifts this holiday:

1. Ship early. November 30 is the recommended deadline for military and international shipping and mailing. For U.S. destinations, December 7 is the recommended deadline. Last chance deadline for ground delivery is December 14. After that, air transportation is recommended and will be more costly.
2. UPS package size restrictions: Maximum 130 inches length and girth; maximum weight 150 lbs. Post Office size restrictions: Maximum 130 inches length and girth; maximum weight 70 lbs. Pak Mail has no size or weight shipping restrictions.
3. There are many restrictions currently enforced regarding exactly what types of items may or may not be shipped via UPS or the Post Office. All items should be packaged in new, sturdy boxes, using no brown paper, no string, no "Scotch," masking or duct tape, and no newspaper for fragile item protection. Pak Mail Centers recommend that you let them determine if the item meets the legal standards and handle the packaging accordingly.
4. Consolidate your packages and shipments. Keep in mind that one 20-pound box costs less to ship than two 10-pound boxes.
5. Avoid bulky, lightweight items (they may have to be sent at an oversize rate).
6. If possible, ship to a business address to be sure someone is there to receive the package.
7. Use declared value coverage for peace of mind.
8. Instead of hauling your gifts to your holiday destination, ship them ahead.
9. Enclose extra address label inside the package just in case the outside is damaged during shipping.
10. Let professionals, like those at Pak Mail, pack all of your fragile gifts to ensure safe delivery.

Pak Mail Centers around the world offer complete packaging and shipping services.