FedEx Office sent me two boxes to show me how wrapping up your packages is actually quite important. I shipped a large present to my family last year and then later found out that some things were broken, why? Because I put too much into the box and not enough padding. I went around the internet looking for shipping facts to include with FedEx Office’s facts and found this Holiday Shipping Infographic.

Everyone ships something during the holidays. So while you’re getting your packages ready you’ll want to avoid making these common mistakes when packing and shipping so your holiday gift arrives in perfect condition.

Common and Costly Holiday Shipping Mistakes

1. Don’t reuse a box. Not a great idea when shipping fragile gifts because cardboard shipping boxes lose about 50 percent of their structural integrity each time they are used.
2. Don’t forget to seal the seams. By only taping one of the seams on the top and bottom of the box, the sides are left open to absorb winter snow and rain as it makes its way across the country. That could lead to a wet package, weakened box and damaged gift.
3. Don’t leave out the address card. In the event that your box is damaged and opens up in shipment, it’s always smart to have the recipient’s name and address on a card inside the box.
4. Don’t skimp on the “filler.” Fragile gifts need to be cushioned when shipping, and newspaper doesn’t provide enough support to keep breakables safe from damage.
5. Don’t rush! With deadlines for holiday delivery looming, shippers are often rushed and don’t have the time or materials on hand to make sure fragile gifts are packed right. If that’s the case, just leave it to the experts by using the Pack & Ship service at FedEx Office.

How do you do it right?

Tips for Packing the Perfect Holiday Gift

Check out these easy steps from FedEx Office that shoppers can use to make sure they’re great shippers, too.

1. Start with a sturdy box. Make sure it’s big enough to hold your gift with enough room for proper cushioning. 
2. Use the H-Tape Method to seal all the seams. Use your packing tape to make a letter “H” on the top and bottom of the box, sealing all the seams to keep out winter rain and snow.
3. Give it some cushioning. Fragile gifts need about 1” of cushioning on all sides to stay safe and sound during shipping. Bubble wrap is a great option.
4. Before you close it up, include an address card. Remember that unexpected things can happen in the shipping process. Including the name and address of a package’s recipient in the box is an added layer of protection to make sure your gift arrives at the right place.
5. Remember to ask for advice! The team members at FedEx Office can pack it up for you on the spot or give you advice on the best products to use.

FedEx Office sent us a broken mug and a well packaged mug in exchange for this post. LOL is disclosure always necessary?