Pack
it right.

Box specifications and packing rules developed from UPS research. Follow these and your boxes land in Boulder intact.

Rules

8 REQUIREMENTS

01
Use a rigid box with flaps intact
02
Remove any labels, hazardous materials indicators, and other shipment markings
03
Wrap all items separately
04
Use adequate cushioning material
05
Use strong tape designed for shipping
06
Do not use string or paper over-wrap
07
Use a single address label with clear, complete delivery and return information
08
Place a duplicate address label inside the package

Procedure

04 STEPS

STEP 01

Use a corrugated box

Whenever possible, use a new box. The more times a box is used, the more it loses its original protective qualities, so a previously used box may not adequately protect your shipment and UPS may refuse a damage claim when using a previously used box.

If you must reuse a box, make sure it is rigid and in excellent condition with no punctures, tears, rips, or corner damage, and that all flaps are intact. Remove any old labels and shipment markings.

Choose a box strength suitable for the contents you are shipping. Never exceed the maximum gross weight for the box, which is usually printed on the Box Maker's Certificate on the box's bottom flap.

STEP 02

Cushion the inside

Wrap each item separately. Fragile articles need both suitable separation from each other and clearance from the corners and sides of the box.

Each item should be surrounded by at least two inches (5 cm) of cushioning and placed at least two inches (5 cm) away from the walls of the box. This protects your items from product-against-product damage and shields them from shock and vibration that travel from the exterior of the box to its contents in transit.

Use proper cushioning material: bubble wrap, inflatable packaging, polystyrene peanuts, or other approved materials available from The UPS Store. Clothing, blankets, and pillows are not adequate cushioning.

Rule of thumb · Shake test

If the contents move when you shake the closed box, add more cushioning until they don't.

STEP 03

Close it securely

Closure matters as much as cushioning. Do not use masking tape, cellophane tape, duct tape, string, or paper over-wrap.

Use a strong tape, two inches (5 cm) or more in width.

Approved tape

Pressure-sensitive plastic or nylon-reinforced

—Easiest to use, adheres without water
—Sticks to a variety of surfaces and shapes
—Apply three strips to both top and bottom of the box

More information about the steps above can be found by visiting How to Pack a Box or Pallet for Shipping, UPS United States.

STEP 04

Label it correctly

For fast and efficient delivery, follow these labeling rules.

—Home2Home labels are provided by The UPS Store at CU Boulder. Please match the correct label to the proper box. Contents and insurance are embedded in the label details.
—Remove any previous labels, hazardous materials indicators, and other shipment markings from the box. HazMat labels MUST be removed, not just crossed out.
—Review the label provided to you to be sure your name is spelled correctly (student name) and your return address is correct for home pick up, if requested.
—Place the shipping label on the top of the package, not over a seam or closure.
—Place a duplicate label or other form of identification inside the package.

Important note

No special handling

UPS does not provide special handling for packages with "Fragile" markings, package orientation arrows ("UP" or "This End Up"), or any similar markings. Pack accordingly.

Packit right.