These instructions are for reference and guidance only. Old China Patterns Limited accepts no responsibility for loss or damage, for any reason, during shipping. Printable Document

These instructions are for the individual looking to privately package fragile items for shipment. They are meant as helpful information only.

Although no method of shipping fragile items is 100 per cent guaranteed, the following method of packing has been used for many years with considerable success when followed carefully. Most individuals have access to the simple materials required.

Choosing a box for packaging
Use corrugated cartons in good RIGID condition with all flaps intact. Select a carton large enough to allow room for two inches of foam, Styrofoam, loose fill or crumpled paper on the top, bottom and sides. If you re-use a carton, be sure that it is in good condition with no punctures, tears or corner damage -- with all flaps intact. Remove old labels or other address markings from the carton.

The most common error made in packaging is that the contents are not properly protected inside the parcel. When this happens, shocks received on the outside of the carton can pass through to the contents. You don't have to be a packaging expert to protect your shipment, however, cut foam strips or bubble wrap are the best. Loose Styrofoam fill is a good ooption but can move around and compress during shipment, so if you choose to use it, use lots of it and pack the parcel tightly so that the contents will not shift to the outside edges of the box.

1. Each item should be separated by bubble-wrap, or wrap each piece with several single sheets of paper (3-4 single sheets provide more cushioning than wrapping 3 sheets at a time)

2. In order to spread the weight evenly, place plates UPRIGHT where possible.

3. Use pieces of cut cardboard to separate items of different shapes and sizes

4. Place the items in the carton with a barrier of crumpled paper surrounding the box., foam strips or loose fill.

5. Place lighter weight items near the top of the carton.

6. Platters go on top, not on the bottom.

7. Use crumpled newspaper or Styrofoam loose fill to tightly fill to top

Basic packing example.

Double-boxing your package
Most carriers will not insure your goods for breakage. Even if you are a professional packer with access to all the latest materials and various sizes of boxes, remember, we are dealing with breakables, it makes sense to be "better safe than sorry". So unless you are confident that your "single box packaging job" will survive the trip safely, we suggest you place the filled box into a larger box with a 2" cushion of foam, loose fill or more crumpled paper.

Use proper labeling. To ensure proper delivery, keep these important points in mind when addressing your package:

1. Always include the postal code of the receiver, with the complete street address and telephone number on the package.

2. When addressing to a RR#, provide directions in a separate envelope with "directions" written on the envelope. Again, ensure the telephone number of the consignee is on the envelope.

3. Place the delivery label on the top of the carton. (The top should be the most stable orientation of the carton as it might sit on the table.) If using a packing slip, place it on the same carton surface as the address label.

4. Do not place the label over a seam, closure, or on top of sealing tape

5. In case your new label falls off, remove or cross out any old address labels or markings on a used carton.

6. Always include your complete return address including telephone number on the package. For added protection, ensure that your address is inside the box.

When in doubt, overpack your shipment

If you are thinking about buying dinnerware for your household, we urge you to consider the following before you buy.

1. Eventually, almost all patterns are discontinued, most often it is a marketing decision (eg. The pattern is not selling enough to warrant its continued production)

2. Every year, thousands of people start a service only to have it discontinued before they manage to complete it. This story is something we hear many times every day.

3. It can be very disappointing when a pattern we like is discontinued, or made unavailable in certain areas
We advise you to do a little research into the product before you buy.

4. Ask questions like;

1.How long has it been in production?
2. Is this pattern a popular one? (Has it been a good seller?)
3. Is it scheduled to be discontinued?
4. Or, are there any guarantees on its continued availability?
5. Can you (the retailer) advise me before my pattern is being discontinued.

We wish you the best of luck in your choice and hope you will keep us in mind when/if your dinnerware and crystal patterns are discontinued.