Shipping vinyl records without risks
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To ship vinyl records without risk, it is essential to use packaging specifically designed to ensure the safety of the record and its cover, preventing internal movement during transport.
Steps for safe packaging
Separating the record: to prevent damage to the cover caused by the vinyl moving during transit, remove the record and its inner sleeve from the main cover. Then, place both in an external protective plastic sleeve.
External protective sleeves: Essential to protect covers from scratches and dust. - Bubble wrap or corrugated cardboard: Especially useful for shipping multiple records or to fill gaps if the box is not the perfect size.
Choosing the container: Choose cardboard boxes specially designed for LPs, called LP mailers. These packages are made to absorb shocks, especially on the corners. Regular padded envelopes are not recommended because they do not provide adequate support.
Filling empty spaces: Insert layers of corrugated cardboard or filling materials above and below the records to prevent bending or shifting during shipping.
Sealing: Use professional polypropylene packing tape to close the package, ensuring the container’s structure is well reinforced.
Shipping service: If the records have some value, it is advisable to always choose a trackable shipment through couriers or postal services with tracking, which also offer insurance in case of loss. Shipments with simple postage or other cheap postal options carry greater risks and generally longer delivery times.