With billions of cards, letters and packages to be delivered during the holidays, a trip to the post office might be a bit of a hassle.
However, the U.S. Postal Service has some tips to help make sure your visit goes as smoothly as possible.
Packaging is one of the biggest challenges for @USPS customers. We have some tips on how you can be prepared ahead of time & make sure gifts are properly packaged. @kgun9 pic.twitter.com/qSF7gP8Mv5
— Carlos Herrera (@KGUNCarlos) December 15, 2017
The most important tip of all is to plan ahead of time. Make sure to fill out all forms ahead of time. You can fill out forms online, print them out and bring them with you. It is important to remember that every package must have a customs form when shipping.
You should also print the complete address clearly.
A complete address includes :
The recipient's name, post office box or street number, street name, directional (N, S, E, W) secondary address (apartment or suite number), city, state and 5-digit zip code
Never guess a zip code. no zip is better than a wrong zip.
The biggest challenge for customers is packaging.
You should awakes make sure you select a box that is strong enough to protect the contents.
Do not reuse mailing boxes because they can weaken in the shipping process. Leave space for cushioning inside.
Stuff glass and fragile items like vases, with newspaper or packing material to avoid damage.
If you are mailing framed photos, take the glass out of the frame and wrap it separately.
Spending a bit more on packaging can save a lot of headaches. The most basic packaging options are designed to only endure a single impact, so paying for air-filled packaging can be worth it.
Also, don't forget the, your item packed within its box should not move or only move very little when shaken.
Following these simple mailing tips helps the postal service meet customer expectations and ensures a positive experience from beginning to end.
