Some Secure Approaches To Appropriately Package And Ship Vinyl Records And CDs

Vinyl records and CDs are valuable in ways above just monetary value alone. Preserving your own record and CD set begins with learning how to bundle LPs, 78's, 45's, and CDs because they make up the bulk of almost all collections.

Passionate vinyl record lovers and serious dealers need to recognize the importance of packaging vinyl records and CDs appropriately. This not merely protects albums from any kind of damage that could happen during shipping and delivery, but it also assures that your own albums stay pristine for longer.

LPs

Professionals who specialize in vinyl packaging will tell you that 12-inch LPs, or perhaps maxi-singles, should only be sent in secure, cardboard mailers. You need to only utilize mailers specifically made for this function. These usually have dimensions of 12.5 to 13 inches long and width. When packing 12-inch LPs, you need to remove the disk from the album cover and put this cautiously within the box. This prevents the album jacket from getting its stitches split as the disc slides back and forth inside it during transit. Line the bottom level of the box using a cardboard insert prior to placing the disk in it's specified space. You will also need to place another cardboard insert on top of the disc as soon as it's inside the mailer. Before wrapping up the box, ensure that the disc fits comfortably inside the mailer. In case it still slides around, include another cardboard insert until the disc no longer slips if the package is rattled.

78's

78-rpm records have a dimension of ten inches and need to be given the same focus to detail as LPs when packed up. These kinds of records are made out of shellac, leading to disks that are more breakable compared to LPs and should thus be managed with extra care. Adding trouble to this, they don't come pre-packed in cardboard jackets but are normally only protected by paper sleeves. One need to keep to the same process when packaging 78's as when packaging LPs, but the mailer box in this case will be smaller having equal width and length of around 10.24 inches. Likewise, the disk should fit comfortably into its designated area in the box and never move if you the mailer box is jostled. It is essential that the disc's flexibility is limited in order to ensure sufficient protection. You can also line the inside of the box with bubble cover to further shield these disks.

45's

7-inch, or 45-rpm, discs need to be packed based on the same procedures listed above, however in this case the mailer box dimension is 7.5 inches x 7.5 inches. Most of these records have cardboard jackets, so prior to positioning the records to the mailer box, take off the disc from the cover and place it gently on top of the jacket in the box separated by a document liner. Once again, this ensures that your jacket arrives in perfect condition. Don't forget that in most cases, the original jackets of vinyl records tend to be more vital compared to the disks themselves as these are considered as precious collectors' items.

CDs

In comparison to vinyl records, CDs are much less of a headache to pack. CDs are available in their own jewel cases, which are sturdy enough to shield the disks inside, so you will just need to look for a mailer box that is slightly bigger than the CD's jewel case. Line your box by using bubble wrap and make sure that the CD fits comfortably within the box in order to safeguard the CD and the jewel case from scratches or even damage.

Some of these albums may turn out to be timeless classics, and if you're a serious collector, the rewards of keeping them in pristine condition is really priceless.


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Written by Patricia Strasser. For more information on vinyl packaging, check out http://www.dominoplastics.com/