Vinyl records have experienced a resurgence as music lovers and dedicated collectors scour the online boxes for their most cherished albums. The search for the long-lost records of the past has been aided by the convenience and social nature of the internet, where collectors can buy, trade, or sell records to other fanatics across the globe. But due to the age, size, and sensitivity of these records, shipping them comes with risk, making proper shipping practices especially important. Here are a few tips on how to ship a record.
The first thing you’ll want to do is remove the record from the original jacket. One of the most common errors in shipping records is keeping the record in an unsecure jacket. Once removed from the jacket, place the record in a paper sleeve. This prevents any direct contact with the record itself.
Next, you’ll place the original jacket and the record (now in a paper sleeve) together in a plastic sleeve. This might seem like overkill, but the original jacket is designed to protect the record from day-to-day handling hazards, not to secure the record during long-distance shipping. Providing multiple layers of protection ensures that the jacket arrives in pristine condition and the record plays the music as intended.
Now you’ll have to find the right box. Records are a common shipping item, so record companies and shipping companies often provide boxes designed specifically for records. They are known as record mailers and should be cheap and easy to find. We do not recommend reusing mailers, if possible. You should also avoid bubble mailers or any record mailer that feels flimsy. If you need packing materials or shipping boxes, we can supply them for you.
The next step is to place cardboard fillers or bubble packaging in the box. The goal of adding this final layer is once again to ensure that the record and jacket are unable to move or slide in the box. The challenge of placing this layer in the box is balancing the need for a snug fit with the risk of putting too much pressure on the record. If the fit is too tight, it could warp the record in transit. If you are applying force to shut or tape the record mailer, consider taking out some filler.
Finally, shake the box gently to make sure that the record is secure. You should not be able to hear or feel the record or jacket move in the box. If you do, add a cardboard layer or bubble packaging to fill any gaps in the box. Now your vinyl record is ready to be shipped and delivered to its eagerly waiting collector or fan.
If you need supplies or help packing and shipping a record, visit the AIM Mail Center in your area. Our shipping experts will make sure your record is secure and arrives in perfect condition at the lowest cost possible. Contact your local AIM Mail Center for more information.