Sending a package from home or the office

Can You Send Packages from Home or the Office?

Sending packages from home or the office has become increasingly common recently, thanks to modern technology and the availability of various delivery services.

During the COVID-19 pandemic four years ago, people had to get creative in finding ways to continue working without leaving the comfort of their homes. This also meant figuring out how to send packages without visiting a local shipping center.

Whether you’re a small business owner sending regular shipments or an individual sending a gift to a loved one, the convenience of sending packages without going to a physical courier office is invaluable.

By following a few simple steps and understanding your available options, you can manage package delivery right from home.

What You Need to Send Packages from Home

To start sending packages from the comfort of your home or office, you’ll need a few basic items and tools. For sending packages from home, you’ll need:

• Sturdy boxes or envelopes: Choose based on the size and fragility of your item.
• Packing tape: Essential for securely sealing your package.
• Packing materials: Bubble wrap, air cushions, or paper to prevent damage.
• Home scale: Helps you weigh your package accurately.
• Printer: To print shipping labels.
• Marker or pen: For addressing or labeling, if needed.

With these tools ready, you can easily pack and prepare your items for shipment.

Choosing the Right Packing Materials

Proper packaging is crucial to protect your items during transit. Here’s how to pick the right materials:

• Cardboard boxes are sturdy and suitable for most items. Choose a size that fits snugly to prevent shifting.
• Padded envelopes are perfect for sending small, lightweight items like books or jewelry.
• Bubble wrap and foam help cushion fragile items, reducing the risk of damage during transport.
• Seal-able plastic bags can protect against moisture, especially for electronics or sensitive materials.

Make sure your packaging is durable enough to withstand rough handling, particularly for long-distance shipments.

Types of Boxes for Different Items

Different items require different types of boxes to ensure safe delivery. Here’s which box to choose depending on what you’re sending:

Small Boxes
For compact items like electronics or cosmetics.

Medium Boxes
Perfect for clothing, books, or bulkier household items.

Large Boxes
For bigger, heavier items such as kitchen appliances or multiple items packed together.

Specialty Boxes
For items like framed artwork, mirrors, or bicycles, these boxes have custom dimensions and reinforced corners for extra protection.

It’s important to avoid boxes that are too large or too small. An oversized box can allow items to shift during transit, leading to damage, while an undersized box can cause crushing.

How to Properly Pack a Fragile Item

When sending fragile items, careful packing is essential. Here’s a step-by-step guide to protecting delicate items:

1. Wrap the item individually. Use bubble wrap to cushion against impacts during transit. For extra protection, wrap it twice.
2. Add a layer of paper or cardboard. Place foam or crumpled paper at the bottom of the box to create a protective layer.
3. Position the item in the center. Make sure the item is well-centered in the box, with at least 2 cm of padding between it and the box walls.
4. Fill empty spaces. Once the item is in place, fill all gaps with additional packing material. This prevents shifting during transport.
5. Seal the box securely. Use packing tape on all edges and reinforce any weak spots if needed.
6. Label as fragile. Clearly mark the package as “Fragile” to alert couriers.

Proper packing can make the difference between a package arriving intact and one arriving damaged.

Weighing and Measuring Your Package

Accurate measurements are essential to ensure you’re charged correctly for shipping. Most courier services base their rates on the size and weight of your package, so here’s how to do it:

• Use a shipping scale. Weigh the package after it’s fully packed and sealed.
• Measure the dimensions. Use a measuring tape to record the length, width, and height of the box.
• Enter accurate details. When filling out shipping forms, providing the correct weight and dimensions helps prevent extra charges or delays.

If you don’t have a shipping scale, most household scales work for smaller packages, though a dedicated shipping scale is more accurate.

Printing a Shipping Label from Home or the Office

Printing a shipping label at home is one of the biggest time-savers when sending packages yourself.

Once printed, attach the label to your package using clear packing tape. Make sure the barcode and address are fully visible.

Package Delivery Service Providers

When sending a package from home or the office, choosing the best and most cost-effective delivery service depends on factors like delivery speed, price, and destination.

MBE ETC. makes this process easy.

MBE offers clients an additional packing service at their MBE centers. So even if your package isn’t ready, we can handle the packing for you!

How to Schedule a Pickup for Your Package

Once your package is ready, it can be picked up from your home or office. Most major delivery providers allow you to schedule a pickup online:

Simply enter your package details and choose a pickup time that fits your schedule.

Sending packages from home or the office has never been easier. With the right materials, careful packing, and access to a courier’s website, you can send anything—locally or internationally—without leaving your home or office.

Following these steps ensures your packages are safe, properly labeled, and delivered on time.

Whether for business or personal reasons, MBE ETC. ships packages and documents worldwide.