3 Easy Steps to Ship Vinyl Records
How to ship vinyl records? Follow this step-by-step guide before mailing them.
Updated October 2022
When you buy a record, the last thing you want to do is damage it in shipping. Due to its composition, vinyl is fragile and can easily warp with high heat and pressure.
So how to ship vinyl records? There are some things to keep in mind when packing and shipping your disc to prevent warping and make sure they arrive safely at their destination.
In this blog post, we'll give you tips on how to ship a vinyl record and walk through the process step-by-step process so that it arrives in the same condition as when you sent it.
​
1. Wrap the vinyl record using cardboard or bubble wrap
You know that records can be delicate and require special care. One way to help protect your records when moving is to wrap them in cardboard or bubble wrap. This will help to cushion them and prevent them from being scratched or damaged.
Remove the record from its sleeve and be sure to wrap the record itself. Records can move around inside the sleeve and this can cause damage. You should also wrap the sleeve and cover to protect them from any moving during shipping.
When wrapping, the disc should be tight so it doesn't move during shipping. But it shouldn't be so tight that it can create damage. With careful wrapping, you can help ensure that your vinyl lp will stay in pristine condition for years to come.
2. Choose the right shipping boxes and mailers
​
When it comes to shipping it's important to choose the right mailers and packaging. The last thing you want is for your records to arrive damaged, so it's worth taking the time to find mailers and boxes that will protect them during transit.
One option is to use mailers specifically designed for shipping vinyl. These mailers have extra padding to protect the records, and they often come with cardboard stiffeners to prevent the mailer from bending.
Another option is to use standard cardboard boxes. You'll want to use a sturdy box that can protect your record from being damaged. Add some padding, such as bubble wrap or packing peanuts, but this is a simple and effective way to ship your records. Whichever option you choose, make sure your records are well-protected before sending them on their way.
​
When you label the package with your name and address, as well as the recipient's information, make sure you add "FRAGILE" on the package. Even using a dark marker on the box. If you have the time to purchase them, another easy option is to use a sticker. Lastly, seal the box properly so that it doesn't open during transit.
3. Ship through a carrier that offers tracking and insurance
​
Shipping records can be a stressful process. Will they get lost in the mail? Will they arrive on time? The best way to ensure that your records arrive safely and on time is to ship them through a carrier that offers tracking and insurance. That way, if there are any problems with the shipment, you will be able to track the package and file a claim with the carrier.
USPS is one carrier that offers these services, and they are typically very reliable. How much does it cost to mail records? You can use USPS Media Mail shipping which was created to ship flat media such as books, CDs, and vinyl. Their rate starts at $3.49 at a Post Office. However, if you take precautions, other carriers such as FedEx and UPS offer similar services and you should have no problems.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your records will arrive safely and undamaged at their destination. However, if you suspect there might be some damage or your record sounds weird, check out this post on how to tell if your record is warped.
Shipping vinyl records doesn't have to be difficult, and by taking some extra care in the packing process, you can rest assured knowing that your records will arrive in the same condition as when they left.