How To Ship A Wedding Dress
Don't let your wedding dress get lost in the mail! Here are some tips on how to ship a wedding dress. A well-packed, insured package will keep your precious gown safe and sound. Be sure to tape down the top of the box securely with strong packing tape or use bubble wrap for added protection. When shipping internationally, be aware that customs duties may apply, so be prepared by filling out any necessary forms in advance If you're not sure what else to do when shipping a wedding dress, here is a quick guide.
Key Considerations When Shipping A Wedding Dress
Shipping a wedding dress requires special care compared to everyday items. The intricate designs, delicate fabrics, and embellishments need protection to arrive at their destination wrinkle-free and undamaged. With some strategic packing and the right materials, you can ensure your customer's gown makes it safely to her wedding.
Protect Delicate Features
Many wedding gowns feature delicate details like sequins, beads, lace, and fine silks that snag easily or fall off. Wrap these areas in acid-free tissue paper before placing the dress in a garment bag for added defense against dust and sunlight. Plastic garment bags also guard against moisture.
Consider Dimensions And Weight Distribution
Some dresses have full ball gown skirts while others feature slimmer silhouettes. The dimensions affect the shipping box size and method. Carefully fold the dress to distribute weight evenly so heavier sections don't pull down lighter ones during transit. This prevents damage to the bodice or skirt.
Use Protective Shipping Materials
Treat wedding gowns as fragile items when packing for shipping. Protective materials like plastic bubble wrap or balled up tissue paper inside a sturdy box keep the dress cushioned and restricted from moving around. For added defense, use a box-in-box method with an inner branded box for that special reveal.
Shipping Step-By-Step
1. Fold dress carefully and wrap in plastic.
2. Place in cardboard box sized for the dress.
3. Add cushioning materials around the dress.
4. Securely tape box flaps and seams.
5. Attach shipping label and duplicate inside box.
Conclusion
With strategic packing techniques and materials, you can ship wedding gowns safely to their destination. Consider dimensions, weight distribution, and using protective inner wrappings and boxes. For international shipping, be aware of potential customs duties and paperwork. We hope these tips help you ship special gowns without worries!
FAQs
How should I fold the wedding dress for shipping?
Carefully fold the dress to evenly distribute the weight so heavier sections like full skirts don’t pull down lighter bodice areas. Wrap folded sections in acid-free tissue or plastic before packing.
What shipping box size should I use?
Choose a box based on the dress dimensions - not too big to avoid excess shipping costs but large enough to fully contain the gown without squishing it. Reinforced cardboard boxes designed for shipping work best.
How do I keep the dress protected inside the box?
Use cushioning materials like plastic bubble wrap or crumbled tissue paper around the dress inside the box so it doesn’t shift during shipping. You can also use a box-in-box method with a decorative inner box.
What kind of shipping label should I use?
Place a shipping label securely on the top of the box, avoiding box seams. Include a duplicate label with your business name and phone number inside the box for extra precaution.
How much will it cost to ship a wedding dress?
Cost varies based on box dimensions, shipping distance, carrier/service level. Estimate costs ahead of time through carriers like UPS, FedEx, or USPS based on details like dress size, destination zip code.
Can I ship internationally?
Yes, you can ship wedding gowns internationally but be aware of potential customs paperwork and duties for the recipient. Carriers like FedEx offer international priority shipping with tracking.
How can I check delivery status?
Major carriers like UPS, FedEx and USPS offer package tracking services so you can monitor the shipping progress and confirm delivery. Provide customers with the tracking number.