Wednesday, June 13, 2012

We continue with the packaging discussion:

Wayne asked that I write a response on this subject of wrapping items. We ship hundreds and hundreds of packages all over the world each year. And few years ago I was cutting through large bubble wrap with a razor blade. You can imagine my surprise, because I didn’t see the broken edge of a piece of glass poking through the bubble, that I cut my finger. Well, I had one emergency room visit and 3 stitches because the darn cut wouldn’t stop bleeding. Six hours out of my life. Please everyone be careful. I have found that when taping bubble wrap use regular scotch tape. It applies easily and comes off easily. If packing tape is used it takes a lot of time and guessing to figure out were the item is in all that bubble and what might be there to surprise you.

I do prefer small size bubble as it conforms to the item. We also double box. Damage usually occurs as items shift in the box during transit. If the item is in a box and then in a larger box the inner box is protected from any shifting of course, and from any impact that the outer box may have. And yes, your box should be able to stand any fall. You don’t really think that the fragile stamp on the box means anything do you? Also make sure that the packing peanuts fill the box. Remember they can shift and compact in the box and cause the item to be damaged. Shake the box gently to make sure that the item is being supported by the packing peanuts. Give support to items with stems, like goblets and compotes, by placing paper or bubble around their center stems. That is the weakest point on a goblet or compote. Our web page has some helpful tips. www.montanosglassrepair.com.

Well, back to my boxing room.

Jan Montano
Montano’s Antique Glass Repair