Shipping suggestions for our customers
We recommend two methods of shipment that we feel are the most cost effective and reliable for the type of service we offer:
1) USPS Priority Mail - We particularly like Priority Mail because it is fairly priced and delivers in 2-3 days. Check out the
USPS Rate Calculator
2) USPS Media Mail - This service is specially designed for heavy sound recordings such as LP albums. It is less expensive than priority mail but has much slower delivery times. Check out the
USPS Media Mail rates
Both of these services provide valuable options such as delivery confirmation, insurance and special package handling
(for an additional fee).
Return shipping from our facility
We exclusively use Priority Mail with delivery confirmation to return your recordings. All things considered, we find it to be the safest, quickest and most affordable way to send off your valuable package on its journey back home.
You may also request the following USPS special services for an additional fee:
Insured Mail - Provides up to $1,000 coverage against loss or damage. Items must not be insured for more than their value. Insured mail must be presented to a retail employee at a post office or a rural carrier.
Insurance Fees - approximately $1.00 per $100 of Insurance Coverage Desired
Special Handling - Provides preferential handling, but not preferential delivery, to extent practicable in dispatch and transportation.
Special Handling Fees - Pieces weighing not more than 10 pounds - $5.40
Pieces weighing more than 10 pounds - $7.50
We offer these shipping options as an added convenience to our customers, any grievances or discontent regarding these services must be directed to your local post office.
Packing suggestions - There are two main methods of packing your recordings:
1) Professional Packing & Shipping Outlets - This is the best way to make sure your recordings are properly packed and protected. Although these facilities charge a small extra fee for their service, it's well worth it when you consider the peace of mind and convenience of having your recordings professionally packed and shipped under one roof. To find a Packing & Shipping Outlet near you, refer to your local listings. You may also want to visit
Mail Boxes ETC
which provides many locations throughout the U.S.
2) Doing it yourself - If you choose to do it yourself, it's important to properly cushion the contents of your package. Fragile recordings need both proper separation from each other and clearance from the corners and sides of the box. This will prevent against damage and protect the contents from shock, punctures and
vibration.
Here are some packing suggestions you may find helpful:
Step 1 - Use a box large enough to allow room for adequate cushioning material on all sides of the contents. We strongly suggest that you send no more than 40 LP's per package. Just to give you an idea, a stack of 20 LP's is approximately 13 inches square by 3 inches high and weighs around 10 lbs.
Step 2 - Place corrugated cardboard dividers or bubble pack between your LP's to insulate them from each other.
Step 3 - Tightly wrap your entire stack of records with large bubble pack.
Step 4 - Use filler on all sides of the box to prevent your recordings from shifting during transit. You can use newspaper, peanuts or popcorn.
Step 5 - Make sure to include your Order
Form, and Payment (if sending a check or money order)
before taping the box shut.
Step 6 - Finally, seal your package securely using strong packing tape (do not use masking or cellophane tape). If you live by the motto “better safe than sorry”, you can double your protection by placing your first package into a bigger box and repeating the process above.
