How To Ship Baked Goods With Ease?
Is there anything better than a warm, fresh-out-of-the-oven baked good? Unfortunately, unless you're providing said goods to your lucky friends and family members in person, getting them from oven to stomach can be quite the challenge. Here are some tips on how to ship baked goods with ease.
How To Properly Package Baked Goods for Shipping
Shipping freshly baked goods requires careful packaging to keep them intact during transit. Follow these key tips for securing your tasty treats:
Let Items Cool Completely Before Packaging
Allow all baked goods to come to room temperature before packaging. Wrapping hot items can lead to condensation and sogginess.
Individually Wrap Each Item
Keep cookies, cupcakes, and other small baked goods from sticking together by wrapping each one in parchment paper, food bags, or other breathable material.
Use Plenty of Cushioning
Line the shipping box with bubble wrap or packing peanuts, and make sure baked goods fit snugly with no room to shift around. Add extra cushioning anywhere there are gaps.
Secure the Box
Once packaged, securely seal the box with strong tape. Shake the box and listen for movement; if you hear anything rattling around, add more padding.
What Shipping Carriers and Services Work Best?
Major carriers like USPS, UPS, and FedEx all ship baked goods domestically and internationally. Rates are calculated by weight, dimensions, and destination.
Domestic Shipping
Baked goods can be shipped within the U.S. between individuals. Declare items as "gifts" on any customs forms. USPS Priority Mail is a cost-effective option for faster delivery.
International Shipping
Some countries prohibit or restrict mailing home-baked or raw ingredients. Verify import regulations before sending goods internationally. Taxes and customs fees may also apply for the recipient.
Let the Experts Handle Fulfillment
Skip the packing hassles by having a fulfillment center like Simpl handle shipping for you. Our team specializes in ecommerce order processing and delivery, getting your baked goods to customers fresh and intact.
Contact us today to learn more about our reliable fulfillment services!
Recommended: How to Ship Cheese and Keep it From Getting Moldy
FAQs
What is the best way to package baked goods for shipping?
Individually wrap baked goods in parchment paper or food bags before cushioning them in bubble wrap inside a sturdy box. Secure the box with tape and make sure there is no room for goods to shift during transit.
Should you ship baked goods while they are still hot?
No, always allow baked goods to completely cool to room temperature before packaging to prevent condensation and sogginess.
What are the most affordable shipping options for baked goods?
USPS Priority Mail offers reliable and cost-effective shipping for baked goods within the United States. Compare rates between major carriers like UPS and FedEx as well.
Can you ship homemade baked goods internationally?
You can ship baked goods internationally, but certain countries prohibit or restrict mailed food items. Always check import regulations and plan for taxes/customs fees for the recipient.
Should you declare baked goods as gifts on customs forms?
Yes, when shipping baked goods to individual recipients domestically or internationally, declare the items as gifts on any customs paperwork.
What are signs that your baked goods packaging needs improvement?
If you hear rattling when you shake the box or see evidence of squishing/breakage when goods arrive, you likely need more or better cushioning in your packaging.
When does it make sense to use a fulfillment center for shipping baked goods?
If you sell baked goods online and want to avoid the hassles of packaging and delivery yourself, a fulfillment center can handle storage, order processing, and shipping for you.