Shipping items internationally can be stressful and a little costly, but DIY-ing your packaging is an outstanding way to minimize your costs. In addition, it can be eco-friendly because you will be reusing many materials around the house. Check out services from Meest-America at https://us.meest.com/services/service/delivery-to-germany to make sure your items get from the US to Germany safely, and package them properly with these do-it-yourself hacks below.
Reuse Boxes
Here’s the thing — purchasing brand-new boxes for your parcels is not an essential rule for US-German shipments. You can take a used one as long as it’s sturdy enough and suitable for your items by shape and size. There shouldn’t be any weak spots in the box, so avoid:
- holes;
- tears;
- bent corners;
- water damage.
If the wear is not extreme, you can reinforce the spots with strong packing tape. Make sure it survives the cross-border transit, and your items won’t be exposed.
Use Household Items
Bubble wrap and packing peanuts are often used as packaging materials. Yet, you can collect various household items and place them in the box for cushioning. Crumpled paper from old newspapers and magazines collecting dust in your attic can do the job!
Wrap every item you ship individually, and then fill the box around them to ensure they don’t move during delivery. Avoid using materials that add too much weight, as they can make the cost higher.
Seal Packages Properly
Once you are done packing, seal the box well. Meest-America recommends using packing tape that sticks well and doesn’t peel off easily. Do not seal your package with masking or cellophane tape — they can break in transit.
Shipping on a Budget
It is possible to save on international shipments — just follow the DIY tips above. Reusing old boxes, replacing cushioning with household items like newspaper, and sealing the box well can both reduce the cost and keep your goods intact.