Laszlo Horvath is a packaging expert at Virginia Tech. He says many people do not see how rough parcel delivery can be. He recommends a simple one-foot drop rule: if a gift cannot survive that drop, it should not be shipped.
Horvath says shipping directly from the retailer is often the best choice. Retailer packaging is made for parcel delivery, and the merchant is responsible if damage occurs. Many merchants also offer complimentary one- or two-day shipping.
He warns that current parcel systems are not designed for reuse, so corrugated boxes and fiber-based padding are the most responsible options now. Examples include cellulose wadding, crumpled kraft paper, crinkle paper, and honeycomb paper. Key tips: use springy cushioning, skip fragile labels, seal edges with 2-inch tape, and fill gaps so items cannot move.
Difficult words
- parcel — a package sent by post or courier
- retailer — a shop or company that sells goods
- merchant — a person or business that sells thingsmerchants
- corrugated — cardboard with curved layers for strength
- padding — soft material used to protect items inside
- complimentary — free of charge from a company or store
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you ever received a damaged package? What happened?
- Would you ship a fragile gift or hand-deliver it? Why?
- Which padding material from the article would you use and why?
