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How to Package Holiday Gifts to Send in the Mail

Sending presents to out-of-town friends and family? Follow these tips to ensure they arrive in one well-wrapped piece.

Photo: Thinkstock / The Nest

Pad It
Before you whip out the gift wrap, pad the gift. To keep your gifts in one piece before arrival, use Bubble Wrap or biodegradable packing peanuts to wrap the item and line the box. Wrap clothing in tissue paper to prevent wrinkles.

Wrap it
Wrap your (padded) gift just as you would to put it under your tree, with pretty paper, bows, a tag and all.

Pack it
Place the present in a box or mailer that is just slightly larger than the actual gift. Shove padding into any spaces left in the box or envelope, to hold the item in place and prevent damage. Then use strong, clear packaging tape to secure the box.

Label It
Be sure to clearly label your box and include your return address in case the recipient decided to skip out early for the holidays. If the gift is breakable, the United States Postal Service recommends writing “FRAGILE” in big letters on the package. (And if the gift is valuable or irreplaceable, be sure to insure the package. If you’re sending via regular mail, ask for a delivery confirmation or signature.)

Find a gift for everyone in the family - all for under $50!

-- Erin Walters

Dec 27, 2010

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