Introduction
Shipping a big board game can be tricky and time consuming. You want to make sure your package arrives safely and intact, but you don’t want to break the bank doing it either. Before deciding how to ship a large board game, consider the benefits and drawbacks of each packaging option.
One of the biggest advantages of shipping big board games is that they usually come with their own box or carrying case. This makes them easy to package up in an appropriately sized box with plenty of packing peanuts, bubble wrap, wrapping paper or similar materials. The game will remain level within its own packaging and any shifting can be corrected by simply adding more filler materials around the edges. Additionally, there’s no need to worry about crushed corner panels since these boxes are designed specifically for large board games.
Another great benefit of shipping big board games is that their size allows for easier tracking throughout transit. Due to its larger volume, a shipper is more likely to recognize the weight as something unique compared to a smaller package that could get lost in the masses. This means less chance of your product getting lost or misdirected during transit – something any customer would appreciate.
On the downside, one potential challenge when shipping big board games is finding an appropriately sized box that won’t cost a fortune in shipping costs. Standard boxes available through an online carrier may be too bulky, resulting in higher than expected fees unless you hunt around for some specialized options like US Mail’s Priority Large Flat Rate Boxes which are actually quite affordable compared to most other carriers’ boxes. Furthermore, if you’re attempting to ship a particularly longboard game across longer distances, extra precautions must be taken so as not to damage any components by ensuring stabilization within the box itself such as placing fillers between any end pieces. In this sense accuracy when measuring and cutting can be essential for preventing damages from occurring during transit due to excessive movement inside the container itself.
Preparing for Shipping
1. Plan ahead: Before selecting the box that you are going to use to ship your big board game, consider your options and plan ahead. Think about what size of box and type of materials will be best for safely shipping your item and how much it will cost.
2. Measure the items: Carefully measure all of the parts of the board game including game cards, boards, chips, dice, pieces and other items. This information is critical in order to make sure that you select an appropriately sized shipping container. Write down dimensions and take photographs if necessary so that you have an accurate record for comparison with available packaging materials.
3. Select appropriate packing material: Choose packing materials such as bubble wrap, air bags or foam peanuts based on their compatibility with your shipment size and weight, durability and cost-effectiveness. Make sure any cushioning applied is properly protective yet still easy to remove when the package arrives at its destination – you don’t want to frustrate customers by making them struggle to get inside your carefully wrapped box!
4. Use extra tape: Be generous with the tape used on handles and flaps; even though a board game may weigh little it could still suffer damage or break in transit if incorrectly handled by couriers. Securely taping up the flaps ensures no unexpected shifting movements in transit which could lead to damage to any fragile parts of the contents.
5. Test for dispatch condition: Once everything is securely taped into place and prepared for shipping, be sure to give it a final test before running off any labels ” shake it up a bit or check how easily lifting from each corner can affect balance if needed ” just make sure everything sounds as expected once packed away!
Selecting the Perfect Box
When shipping a big board game, it is important to select the right box to ensure that your package is delivered safely and without damage. As boxes have different weight and size capacities, measurements are necessary in order to ensure the box you choose can safely carry your item. Begin by measuring the width, length and height of the game before selecting a box. Make sure the box which you choose is slightly bigger than these dimensions; there must be enough space for some cushioning materials like bubble wrap and packing peanuts for extra security. Furthermore, with regards to weight capacity, you must also check how much your board game weighs (including packaging materials) and make sure that this combined weight does not exceed the limits of the box that you have chosen. For example, a standard medium-sized mailer has a maximum carry capacity of 20 lbs ” so if your package exceeds this amount, you will need to select a larger sized shipping container.
Packing the Game
When shipping a big board game, it’s important to make sure all the pieces and parts are properly and securely packed to avoid damage during transit. For larger board games, it is best to use robust boxes such as double-corrugated cardboard for added protection. Larger board games may also require reinforcement on the corners so that the walls of the box retain their shape during transit.
If you’re shipping multiple components together then wrapping them in bubble wrap or packing peanuts can reduce movement and help keep everything in place. If there are several small bits and pieces like tokens, cards, dice etc., it would be sensible to group them together by type and put each group into its own little bags before sealing them in bubble wrap for additional security.
Finally, don’t forget that heavy items should always be placed at the bottom of the box and lighter items at the top so that they don’t move around too much while they are being shipped. You should also fill any empty spaces with extra packing materials – like packing peanuts, foam or tissue paper – as these will help cushion any further movement caused by rough handling that might occur during transport.
Securing the Board
When shipping a big board game, it is important to ensure that the surface of the game is properly preserved. One way to do this is to use foam padding or other cushioning materials to fill any space between the surface of the game and the cardboard box. In addition, layers of bubble wrap can be applied around the entire game before being placed in the box, which will help to protect from bumps and scratches that may occur during transport. If possible, it is also helpful to include inserts that separate each component and keep them stable in transit. Finally, if shipping internationally, consider using an extra layer of reinforced plastic material to help mitigate any damage caused by inclement weather or rough handling. Taking these steps will ensure that you board game arrives safe and intact when it reaches its destination.
Specialty Shipping Services
Specialty shipping services are often necessary for sending large board games. They provide a more tailored approach than general freight services and offer safer transportation for delicate items. In some cases, these services can also help speed up delivery times to meet the expectations of customers. However, it’s important to consider all the pros and cons before utilizing specialty shipping services for large board games.
Pros:
• Specialty shipping services are designed to safely handle delicate and oversized items such as large board games. Many companies offering this service have specialized containers or packing materials specifically designed to protect fragile pieces during transit, giving buyers peace of mind that their purchase will arrive intact.
• Utilizing specialty shipping can also guarantee faster delivery times over long distances, allowing customers to receive their purchases quicker than with basic freight services. Furthermore, some companies provide door-to-door delivery where the item is dropped off by a driver who ensures it’s handled with care throughout transit.
Cons:
• The main drawback of using specialty shipping is cost; these services tend to be significantly more expensive than basic freight due to increased protection measures in place and door-to-door deliveries available. This means buyers sometimes must pay an extra premium on top of the cost of their purchase when receiving larger items through these services.
• Additionally, if something does go wrong during shipment/delivery, it can be difficult to get compensation as certain companies might not offer refunds or returns regardless of circumstances. This means buyers must put their trust into the reliability of the company providing the service before agreeing to purchase through them.
Estimating Cost
Before beginning the process of shipping a big board game, it’s important to get an estimate for all associated costs. This will help you determine the best way to package and ship your item. Consider these key tips for estimating shipping costs:
1. Research Different Shipping Methods – Start by researching which carriers offer a service that’s compatible with the size and weight of your board game. Compare prices between different carriers and check their policies on damage or lost items.
2. Calculate Packaging Costs – Depending on the size of your board game, you may need packing materials like foam, bubble wrap, tape, boxes, and specialty packaging devices such as pallets or skids if it is a large item. Make sure you account for all these additional charges in your budget.
3. Adjust For Insurance Fees – If you want to cover the cost of any potential loss or damage due to mishandling during shipment, consider purchasing insurance coverage from a reputable insurer. Although this isn’t always required, it can save considerable expense in the long run should something happen to the big board game in transit.
4. Factor In Shipping Destinations – Lastly, since different locations may have varying shipping requirements, fees and regulations (for both domestic and international shipments) be sure to factor them into your total cost before making a purchase commitment form either carrier or customer destination point changes thereafter .
Tracking Delivery
Shipping a big board game requires careful thought and planning. Ensuring that the package arrives safely is the highest priority. It’s important to start by selecting secure packaging for the game, such as cardboard boxes designed with flaps and notches to keep the contents in place. After packing the game, it needs to be adequately sealed in order to prevent moisture from getting in or out during shipping.
Once the board game is packaged properly, it’s time to decide which delivery service best suits your needs. Most companies choose between ground delivery services, express delivery, or mail services depending on when they need the product delivered and how much they are willing to pay for convenience. To track and monitor progress of these shipments, most carriers offer barcode tracking services that provide detailed information on where the package is at any given time. This can help ensure that the board game arrives securely, and on time if needed. Along with tracking systems, some carriers offer additional protection for goods like insurance for fragile items such as large boards games that may require extra attention during transport. The last step is then mailing out the parcel or arranging for pick up for larger packages.
Insurance
Shipping a big board game safely can be a daunting task. It’s important to find insurance that will protect your package from damage or loss during transit. Many shipping companies offer insurance for their services, which is the most straightforward option. Third-party shipping insurers provide additional protection if needed or desired. Review policies closely to determine the type of coverage they provide and the terms under which they pay out claims.
You may also want to consider custom-tailored packaging options when it comes to shipping a large board game. Finding a box that is slightly larger than the original packaging allows for more padding to reduce the risk of damage during transport. Bubble wrap, foam inserts, and other cushioning materials are great for protecting gaming components from jostling around in transit and providing support against sharp edges on heavy pieces. Make sure all components of the game are securely sealed within their own compartments as even slight pressure can cause permanent cracks in boards or boxes when placed inside larger containers while in transit. When taping up a box, try to use multiple layers of heavy-duty tape around all seams so as not to allow unexpected punctures or tears along package travel routes; never leave exposed areas on boxes that could lead too easily unwrapping during handling processes at warehouses or sorting centers. Finally, make sure you clearly mark your package containing the game with “Fragile” and “This Side Up” labels so no confusion occurs when delivering your package with proper care and handling techniques ” secure delivery is essential!
Conclusion
One of the best ways to ship a big board game is to use specialty packaging, such as cardboard boxes designed specifically for shipping large items. If custom packaging materials are not available, regular moving and storage boxes can also be used. Additionally, some tips for protecting board game pieces during shipping include using bubble wrap or other cushioning material to wrap each piece individually, double-boxing the game if it includes many small pieces, filling in any gaps with packing peanuts, and adding extra adhesive tape along the seam of the box. Finally, make sure to clearly label the box with both sender and recipient’s contact information in case of loss or delay in delivery.
In conclusion, when shipping a big board game take into account size and weight restrictions that may apply before selecting a box and protective materials. Make sure to secure all pieces inside by wrapping them individually in cushioning material such as bubble wrap or packing peanuts. Additionally, double-box the game if it includes many small pieces and add extra adhesive tape along the seam of the box. Finally, make sure to label the package with both sender and recipient’s contact information for easy tracking during transit. Following these guidelines will help ensure that your package arrives safe and sound at its destination!
I love playing all kinds of games – from classics like Monopoly to modern favourites like Ticket to Ride.
I created this blog as a way to share my love of board games with others, and provide information on the latest releases and news in the industry.
