How To Ship Cosmetics Overseas?

How can I ship makeup and other cosmetics abroad safely? The best way to ship makeup products such as eyeshadow, blush, or powder by post or courier is to carefully wrap each item in bubble wrap or other dunnage. The more layers the better. This will protect the products during transport.

How can I ship cosmetics?

USPS – When shipping cosmetics, perfumes come with the most restrictions since nearly all varieties contain some type of alcohol. The United States Postal Service will ship perfumes that contain alcohol domestically, provided they’re sent via ground transportation.

But when it comes to shipping products via domestic or international air service, perfumes that contain alcohol are banned due to their potential flammability. Full USPS guidelines for shipping perfume can be found here, along with detailed instructions on properly packaging flammable liquids for mailing.

Shipping makeup and other cosmetics like powders, compacts, creams, and lotions via USPS is permitted as long as the items are non-flammable and non-hazardous. USPS regulations for mailing liquids of any kind include the following guidelines:

Liquid containers must close via a closure method such as a screw cap.The liquid container must be lined with absorbent material capable of absorbing all of the liquid in the container.The liquid container must be placed in a leakproof container like a sealed bag.The outside of the package must be marked as containing a liquid.The outer shipping packaging must be securely sealed and capable of withstanding the stress of regular handling in the mail system.

Can I ship skincare to USA?

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FDA often receives questions from cosmetics firms about requirements for importing cosmetics into the United States. Here are some commonly asked questions and our responses. To learn about exporting cosmetics from the United States to other countries, see Information for Exporters: FAQs,

How does FDA monitor imports? Can FDA answer my questions about U.S. Customs? Are all imported cosmetics sampled and examined? Do imported and domestically produced cosmetics need to meet the same requirements? Is it necessary to receive FDA approval before importing cosmetics? Do I need to register with FDA in order to import cosmetics? What are the international differences in the definitions of cosmetics and drugs? What are some of the reasons cosmetics offered for import are refused entry into the United States? What ingredients are prohibited or restricted? Are “natural” or “organic” cosmetics required to receive certification? What are the labeling requirements for cosmetics?

How does FDA monitor imports? FDA works closely with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to monitor imports. Imported cosmetics are subject to examination by CBP at the time of entry. Foreign cosmetics that appear to be adulterated or misbranded may be refused entry into the United States.

They must be brought into compliance, destroyed, or re-exported. Import refusals are listed on FDA’s website and are updated monthly. Can FDA answer my questions about U.S. Customs requirements? No. You will need to contact U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) directly to learn what Customs requirements apply to your imports.

Useful resources on the CBP website include, for example, ” Importing into the United States: A Guide for Commercial Importers,” back to top Are all imported cosmetics sampled and examined? Not all cosmetics are inspected or sampled upon entry into this country.

• In order to focus inspection efforts most efficiently, FDA issues Import Alerts to advise inspectors of trends in violations.
• Among the products addressed in Import Alerts are cosmetic-type products marketed with therapeutic claims that cause them to be considered unapproved new drugs under the law, cosmetics that are adulterated because of microbial contamination, failure to meet U.S.

requirements for color additives, and bulk shipments of high-risk bovine tissue from BSE (bovine spongiform encephalopathy) countries. For a complete list, see Import Alerts for Industry: Cosmetics, However, examination of imported cosmetics is not limited to the types of products specified in Import Alerts.

Also, the fact that a product has not been detained previously does not protect it from being detained in the future, if it appears to be in violation of U.S. law. While not all imported products are examined at the time of entry, those not examined are still subject to all the legal requirements of the laws we enforce.

Do imported and domestically produced cosmetics need to meet the same requirements? Imported cosmetics must comply with the same laws and regulations that apply to those produced domestically. Cosmetic products and ingredients are not subject to premarket approval by FDA, with the exception of color additives.

1. However, they must be safe for consumers under labeled or customary conditions of use, and they must be properly labeled.
2. Color additives must be approved for the intended use; some must be from batches certified by FDA.
3. Firms and individuals who manufacture or market cosmetics are responsible for ensuring that their products are in compliance with U.S.

law. To learn more, see:

FDA Authority Over Cosmetics Key Legal Concepts: “Interstate Commerce,” “Adulterated,” and “Misbranded” Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?) Cosmetic Labeling Color Additives and Cosmetics Guidance & Regulation Resources for You: Cosmetics Manufacturers, Packagers, and Distributors

and the related resources listed on those pages. back to top Is it necessary to receive FDA approval before importing cosmetics? Cosmetic products and ingredients, other than color additives, do not need FDA approval before they go on the market. However, they must not be adulterated or misbranded.

• This means that they must be safe for consumers under labeled or customary conditions of use, and they must be properly labeled.
• With the exception of color additives and those ingredients that are prohibited or restricted by FDA regulations, a cosmetic firm may use any ingredient, as long as it does not cause the product to be adulterated in any way.

Companies and individuals who manufacture or market cosmetics have a legal responsibility for the safety and labeling of their products. Remember, however, that some “personal care products” are drugs, or both cosmetics and drugs, under U.S. law. If your product is a drug under U.S.

• Law, it is subject to the requirements for drugs, such as premarket approval.
• To learn more, see “Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?).” Do I need to register with FDA in order to import cosmetics? No.
• Firms importing products considered to be solely cosmetics in the United States are not required to register with FDA, and a registration number is not required for importing cosmetics into this country.

FDA encourages both domestic and foreign cosmetic firms to register their establishments and file Cosmetic Product Ingredient Statements with our Voluntary Cosmetic Registration Program (VCRP), but as its name indicates, participation in this program is voluntary, not mandatory.

• Please note that the VCRP can only accept Cosmetic Product Ingredient Statements for cosmetics that are already on the market in the United States ( 21 CFR 720.2 ).
• If your products are drugs, or both cosmetics and drugs, under U.S.
• Law, however, they are subject to requirements for drug registration.

Similarly, importers of cosmetic ingredients that are also classified as food products are required to meet the registration requirements of the Bioterrorism Act of 2002, What are the international differences in the definitions of cosmetics and drugs? Many countries define drugs and cosmetics differently from the United States.

For example, in some countries, sunscreens are regulated as cosmetics. In the United States, they are regulated as drugs, Hair restoration, skin protectant, pain relief, anti-aging effects that involve the structure or function of the skin, and treatment of acne, dandruff, eczema, or irritated skin are other examples of claims that would cause products to be regulated as drugs (or in some cases, both cosmetics and drugs) in the United States.

Cosmetics and drugs are subject to different requirements. To learn more about the differences between cosmetics and drugs under U.S. law, see “Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?)” and the additional resources listed on that page. Drugs are regulated by FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER).

Please direct questions about drugs to CDER at [email protected] or [email protected], What are some of the reasons cosmetics offered for import are refused entry into the United States? A cosmetic may be refused entry into the United States if it appears not to comply with applicable U.S.

laws and regulations in any way. The following are just some of the most common reasons:

Ingredients or contaminants that cause the product to be unsafe. Color additive violations: All color additives must be approved by FDA for the intended use; some must not be used unless they are batch-certified in FDA’s own laboratories. Misuse of color additives makes a product adulterated. To learn more, see “Color Additives and Cosmetics” and the additional resources listed on that page. Prohibited and restricted ingredients : Violating the restrictions on the use of these substances makes a cosmetic adulterated. Microbial contamination: Sterility is not required for cosmetic products, but microbial contamination can pose a health hazard and therefore make a product adulterated. Labeling violations, such as deficiencies in the ingredient declaration, or failure to include all required labeling information in English (or Spanish, in Puerto Rico). Claims that cause a product marketed as a cosmetic to be subject to regulation as a drug under U.S. law.

Remember, these are just some common violations. Any violation of applicable U.S. laws and related regulations may result in a cosmetic being detained. What ingredients are prohibited or restricted? If you are an importer, it is essential for you to verify that the products you import comply with regulations that prohibit or restrict the use of certain ingredients.

1. The country of origin may not have the same ingredient prohibitions and restrictions as the United States.
2. But remember, any ingredient is prohibited if it causes the finished cosmetic product to be unsafe for consumers under labeled or customary conditions for use, even if there is no regulation specifically prohibiting or restricting its use in cosmetics.

To learn more, see “Ingredients Prohibited or Restricted by FDA Regulations.” Are “natural” or “organic” cosmetics required to receive certification? FDA does not define or regulate terms such as “organic” and “natural.” However, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) does regulate the use of the term “organic” when used in terms of agricultural ingredient marketing.

• Questions about the use of organic agricultural ingredients should be directed to USDA.
• There are also private organizations that certify “natural” and other claims; however, these organizations are in no way affiliated with FDA.
• Also, remember that all cosmetics are required to be safe, regardless of the sources of their ingredients.

An ingredient’s source does not determine its safety. To learn more, see “‘Organic’ Cosmetics.” What are the labeling requirements for cosmetics? To learn about cosmetic labeling, see ” Labeling ” and the additional resources listed on that page, such as the ” Cosmetic Labeling Guide,” The following are some of the more common labeling concerns affecting importers:

Must all labeling be in English? All required label information must be in English. However, if the product is marketed only in Puerto Rico, it must be labeled in Spanish. If some labeling information appears in another language, all required label information must also appear in that language. Can common or usual names of ingredients used in the country of origin be used on cosmetic labels? Under the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act, ingredients must be identified by their “common or usual names” in the United States. Terms such as “aqua,” “mel,” or “parfum” are permitted only in parentheses following their common or usual names in English, such as “water,” “honey,” and “fragrance.” Is INCI nomenclature acceptable for identifying botanical ingredients? INCI (International Nomenclature Cosmetic Ingredient) names for botanical ingredients typically use Latin names for genus and species to identify botanical ingredients.U.S. regulations require the use of common or usual names. Latin terms may be included parenthetically following the common or usual name of an ingredient. Example: Aloe (Aloe Barbadensis) Extract. See “FDA Response to CTFA Requests Regarding Harmonization of Ingredient Names (Color Additives, Denatured Alcohol, and Plant Extracts).” Are C.I. numbers acceptable for identifying color additives on cosmetic labeling? C.I. numbers are not acceptable on product labeling unless they are preceded by the color additive names accepted in the U.S. followed by the C.I. number in parentheses. In addition, C.I. numbers do not indicate FDA approval or FDA color certification. To learn more, see “Color Additives and Cosmetics” and the additional resources listed on that page. I want to import cosmetics without labeling, and label them in the United States before marketing them. Is this permitted? There is an exemption from ingredient labeling that may apply in such cases. Bulk cosmetics do not have to comply with the cosmetic labeling regulations if the person introducing the shipment is the operator of the establishment where the shipment is going to be repackaged and labeled, or, in a case where someone else is going to introduce the shipment into the United States, if a written agreement signed by the establishment operator is available for customs officials at the time the shipment is offered for import. The labeling exemption will be void, however, if the product is moved from the establishment without the required labeling. For complete information, see the regulation at 21 CFR 701.9,

Resources

Cosmetic Labeling Guide Country of Origin Marking: From U.S. Customs and Border Protection Exporting Cosmetics FDA Authority Over Cosmetics Inspection of Cosmetics Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?) Key Legal Concepts: “Interstate Commerce,” “Adulterated,” and “Misbranded” Labeling

back to top

How do you mail lipstick?

Package Your Items Carefully – Packaging items doesn’t have to be overly complicated, just make sure to be aware of what your shipment might run into on its journey. If you’re shipping out eyeshadow, blush, or any kind of pressed powder, consider putting a thin sheet of bubble wrap inside the actual palette to keep the product secure.

Anything fragile should get a good amount of padding with bubble wrap as well, to prevent any external movement. You can also always opt for a Fragile sticker to slap (or gently place) on your shipment, just for extra measure. If you’re shipping out lipstick or any makeup that might melt, be sure your items go into leak-proof packaging to avoid a mess if anything melts down.

Adding an ice-pack and using Priority Mail Express wouldn’t hurt either, since no one wants goopy, misshapen lipstick. If you’re super worried about shipping out meltable items, thermal bubble wrap might be of interest to you. Similar to heat-sensitive items, any liquid or gel should hang out in leak-proof packaging,

• Just so you can sleep at night, using water-proof tape around the lids of containers will also help prevent leaks and spills.
• Smaller and more durable makeup and cosmetics can ship out in bubble mailers, no problem.
• If anything is even slightly delicate, we’d recommend that you wrap them with bubble wrap and put them in a cardboard box.

The good news here is that the services we suggest above work with plain boxes. Always give your shipments a good shake once they’ve been packed up! If they don’t jostle around or hit the sides of your packages, that’s a job well done. Pro Tip: If you’re shipping out anything that is moisture sensitive, consider throwing in some silica packets to protect your product.

How to ship cosmetics to China?

What documents does the sender need to provide? –

An air waybill A commercial invoice A packing list

For shipments of infant formula milk powder from business to businesses, the sender also needs to provide:

A certificate of origin A Sanitary Inspection Certificate Proof of CIQ approval – foreign milk powder manufacturers and exporters must register with CIQ and gain CIQ approval for their product before shipping

Can you send skincare products?

Properly Packaging Beauty and Cosmetic Products – Most skin care creams and products already come in sturdy packaging material, such as plastic receptacles, screw-down bottles, or smaller boxes. So, all you’ll need to do is place these in your cardboard box and keep them from moving around too much! Easy enough, right? To fill up the space inside your cardboard box, we suggest using plenty of packing peanuts, air pillows, or styrofoam products.

Also, if you want your shipments to appear next-level professional, another kind of packing material else we recommend is custom molded package inserts. Most professional skin care brands use these. On top of keeping your products in place and protecting them from moving around and taking damage. Molded package inserts costs a bit more money, of course, but it’s well worth it to create a unique unboxing experience for your customers.

Learn more about the benefits of using custom packaging for your shipments.

Can you ship toiletries?

Conclusion – Toiletries are one of the most commonly shipped items. Guidance from carriers like USPS and FedEx keep your products intact, and ShippingEasy’s manual order uploads provide a direct way to create labels for your products and samples. For more information on shipping toiletries, check out our full case study with The Soapie Shoppe! Read more The following two tabs change content below.

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Baillee Perkins is a writer of shipping by day and pop culture by night, so her Google search history is an actual nightmare.

Will lipstick melt during shipping?

5 Brilliant Tips on How to Ship Lipsticks Because lipsticks have wax and oil as their main ingredients, many think that they can end up melted and ruined when shipped especially to warm destinations. Contrary to this belief, lipstick, makeup, and other cosmetics are some of the easiest to ship stuff.

When properly packed, lipsticks can endure the rough handling and extreme temperatures a package has to go through during the shipping process. Here are some valuable tips on how to properly pack and ship lipsticks to ensure that they arrive in best conditions: 1. Wrap each one generously with tissue paper.2.

Avoid using bubble wrap as it will prevent the lipsticks from breathing which causes “sweating.” 3. When shipping in bulk, place the wrapped lipstick tubes in a sturdy shipping box with enough packing material such as shredded paper to provide padding.4.

What kind of packaging do you use for lipstick?

The Different Types of Cosmetic Packaging – There are quite a few types of containers that are suitable for and commonly used by cosmetics brands. A large portion of products are usually packaged in either a jar, bottle, or tube. The best makeup packaging for lip glosses and lipsticks are primarily found in tubes, while cream-based makeup and powders are found in compact skincare packaging containers.

Jars – Good for products that may not pour well or that a customer may not want to buy in large portions, as jars come in a wide array of sizes.

Examples : Cosmetics and makeup products jars work well with are powders and thicker products such as some face creams, skincare lotions or hair gels.

Bottles – Good for liquid products that you want to be dispensed by a certain method (pump, sprayer) and want larger volumes of.

Examples : Soaps and shampoos, cosmetics you want to be sprayed like some hair products, and skincare lotions. We carry glass bottles in all shapes and sizes.

Tubes -Great for products that consumers want more control over how they are dispensed and tend to be useful for use for your skin/face care products.

Examples : Products such as ointments and liquid makeups. We carry an assortment of squeezable tubes.

Will lip balm melt in shipping?

Amazon.com: Preguntas y respuestas de los clientes Mostrando 1-4 de 4 respuestas Not to worry. All lip balm products are poured into the tube in a melted state during manufacturing. If for some reason your delivery gets really hot in the truck, just allow it to come back to room temperature before you unpack it.

This lip balm is very creamy, not waxy like most, so I’m sure you will love it. · 24 de agosto de 2021 ¿Esta información te resulta útil? | No, mine didn’t melt and I live in very hot California! I love them! They go on so smooth and smell wonderful! · 23 de agosto de 2021 ¿Esta información te resulta útil? | I’ve ordered it multiple times and never had issues with it melting in transit! · 23 de agosto de 2021 ¿Esta información te resulta útil? | Can melt but you should be fine.

· 23 de agosto de 2021 ¿Esta información te resulta útil? | : Amazon.com: Preguntas y respuestas de los clientes

Can I send skincare to Hong Kong?

Before shipping cosmetics and skincare products –

When shipping liquid products, remember to store your items in the original unopened container. The package should clearly label the ingredient listFor packing your parcel, please use paper box and wrap your items with wrapping bubble so the parcel will be well-protectedBefore shipping out your parcel, fill in the details for Customs declaration form, including the quantity, weight, volume (e.g. Lipstick x 1, Shampoo 200 ml)

Hong Kong is a free port. Import tax and duty tax might be incurred regardless the region you are shipping to. The exact amount of payable tax will be decided by the local Customs after checking your parcel. Local Customs will then contact the recipient for taxes and payment. Clearance will then be succeeded after paying the tax. For more details, check out Spaceship’s guide on Duties & Tax

Can I send cream to China?

Personal effects –

For shipping personal effects, the receiver’s full name must be shown in the consignee column, instead of the company’s name.For unaccompanied baggage, a passport with valid visa and entry/exit stamp from immigration customs in the last 6 months must be provided. Plus, the Baggage Declaration Form must display a complete list of articles being shipped with the form being stamped by the border customs. Normally, clearance lead time for such unaccompanied baggage takes about a week.For commodity/gift sent to private individuals, a copy of the consignee’s ID, list of the commodity/gift in detail and a proforma invoice is required. The quantity of commodity/gift should be reasonable for personal use, and not for resale. The reasonable quantity will be determined by customs officers.Animal derived food/milk and dairy products, including meat/seafood products, raw milk, fresh milk, yogurt, cream, butter, cheese and other dairy products are prohibited from being shipped to private individuals in China (B2C or C2C).

Can I send skincare to China?

Exemptions for the Application of Pre-market Approval License – All cosmetics have to be made record keeping or approved with CFDA before being placed in the Chinese market. However, it is not required for soaps, toothpaste and oral cleaner. Indeed, those products can be imported into China directly after custom clearance.

Why can’t you ship perfume?

Shipping Domestically vs. Internationally – Keep in mind shipping perfume domestically is much different than shipping it internationally. First of all, there’s the possibility of running into clearance delays at customs. Due to flammable ethyl alcohol content, shipping perfume requires a TSA Clearance and validation that the shipping company knows how to pack dangerous goods.

Can I post beauty products?

Volume per item must not exceed 30ml. No more than four items in any one parcel. Bottles of nail varnish must be placed in strong outer packaging and be so packed, secured or cushioned in such a way that they cannot break, be punctured or leak their contents into the outer packaging.

Can I send toiletries to France?

Make Sure It’s None of the Following Restricted Items – You can only send certain items into France. There are some restrictions that dictate what is allowed. These restrictions include:

Drinks or other liquids over 1L or containing alcohol over 24% ABV (vodka, whisky, rum). There are restrictions on some foods like vegetables, fruit, seeds, meat, fish, and dairy. Toiletries including aerosols, perfumes, aftershave, nail varnish (or polish or gel), or liquids over 1l are not allowed. Tobacco or manufactured tobacco substitutes, along with e-cigarettes, are prohibited and restricted at various levels. Medicines, vaccines, and medical and surgical instruments may all be restricted. Valuable items may not be eligible for posting; check restrictions of coins, banknotes, jewellery, precious metals, pearls, stones, etc.

How do you package skincare samples?

Flexible packaging including sachets, pouches and die cut pouches are the go to option for most large brands. Pouches are used in kits and singles for both retail and sampling programs. If there’s one thing people love, it’s free samples, especially in the cosmetics and skincare industry.

What is the cheapest way to ship out products?

Tips to keep shipping costs down – Although negotiating rates and researching couriers will help you create a successful shipping strategy, there are a handful of tips and tricks small businesses can use to help keep shipping rates low and not let it become a burden to your success.

Use the right-sized packaging – you do not want to be shipping air all over the place, so reduce the size and weight of your packages by choosing boxes that fit your merchandise well. Be economical about materials – cardboard is heavy, so replace that with a poly mailer or other lightweight packaging where possible. Other lightweight options are air pillows, packing paper, bubble wrap, foam inserts, Versa Pak wadding rolls, and excelsior. Use flat-rate shipping where possible—flat-rate shipping will almost always be the best value for money, especially for domestic delivery. Flat-rate shipping means that you can predict prices more accurately. No matter what kind of parcel you have or what dimensions or weight it is, the price will always be the same. Offer local delivery and pick-up. By far, the cheapest delivery option is local delivery, or even better, pick-up. For small businesses, a local delivery service is a great way to connect with nearby customers, drive sales, and provide a great customer experience.

Working out the cheapest way to ship a package might come down to trial and error to begin with, especially as you become accustomed to all the options, delivery methods, couriers, and where the majority of your sales end up coming from. However, once you have a solid shipping strategy in place and shipping costs that work for both you and your customers, you’ll start to spend less time fulfilling orders and more time growing your business.

How do you ship cool products?

It doesn’t matter how flawless those fondant flowers are if the cake itself is less than fresh. Seal in that just-baked freshness with plastic wrap. Use shrink wrap for sturdy goodies like Bundt cakes and pies, and wrap plastic around more delicate cakes by hand.

1. Freezing cupcakes and intricate iced cakes can also help them to hold up in transit.
2. Place cupcakes in a holder with individual spaces and press a candy stick into each cupcake to prevent a potential impact from the lid.
3. Wrap cookies individually in shrink bags or heat-sealed plastic for professional-looking presentation.

Pack them snugly in a tin or other sturdy container. Wrap cupcake holders, tins and other containers in plastic to make them airtight, or seal all edges with sturdy tape. This will help keep the freshness in and unwanted heat and moisture out. Pro Tip : If you’re shipping macarons, the meringue-based cookie with a soft sandwich filling, or similarly delicate treats, cut small squares of bubble wrap and add a layer of cushioning between each of the macarons when packing them inside your container.

This extra step will not only preserve freshness but help prevent the fragile confections from smushing against one another in transit. Sturdy insulated foam containers are ideal for ice cream, frozen cakes, seafood and other items you want to keep cool or frozen. These containers are available in different thicknesses; the thicker the wall, the less coolant you’ll need.

For sturdy items that require less cooling, you may line a shipping box with insulated foam planks or thermal bubble wrap. Thermal bubble mailers are another option for food in containers, such as cupcakes; you’ll place the coolant inside the mailer, and pack it all in a sturdy shipping box with ample padding.

For food you want to remain unfrozen, surround it with gel packs within an insulated container. Soggy, leaky boxes do not make sturdy shipping containers – or a good customer experience. Avoid a leaky box by lining the inside of your container with a thick plastic liner. Place an absorbent pad or mat on top of the liner.

In addition to the liner, enclose your items in a watertight plastic bag. If you’re shipping seafood, it’s a good idea to double bag it for extra protection. If you’re shipping live seafood like lobsters, oysters or crabs, leave the bags open so air can get in.

1. If you’re planning on shipping fruits or vegetables, review how to safely handle mail order foods for rules and guidelines about shipping fruits and vegetables.
2. Gel packs and dry ice are the best options for keeping your food cool in transit.
3. In general, use dry ice for ice cream and other foods you want to keep frozen, and gel packs to keep food between 32 and 60 degrees F.

Regular ice is not the best option as it is heavy and can potentially dampen the inside of the container as it melts. If you must ship with frozen water, make sure to use water-resistant packaging and seal it well. It’s also a good idea to precool your insulated container before you pack it up to get the most mileage out of your refrigerant.

An obvious advantage of dry ice is that it is, in fact, dry, while gel packs dampen as they thaw. Dry ice is the colder option, but it may not last as long as gel packs. In addition, dry ice is considered a hazardous material; there are restrictions on shipping via air if you’re using more than 5.5 pounds of dry ice.

Always wear gloves when handling dry ice to avoid burns. Never wrap your dry ice, as the carbon dioxide that’s released can explode if it isn’t able to expand. Also, don’t use dry ice if you’re shipping live seafood. No matter what you’re shipping, never let dry ice come into direct contact with your food.

Get more tips on shipping with dry ice, and find out exactly how much you need (and how long it will last) in our handy guide to dry ice shipping, Avoid broken cookies, bruised fruit and banged up filets by filling extra space in your package with padding. Use materials like bubble wrap and packing peanuts to provide at least 2 to 3 inches of protection around your food.

If there is extra space remaining in your foam cooler, add some bubble wrap to stabilize your goods. Wrap tins and other food containers with ample bubble wrap and stabilize them in the center of your shipping box at least 2 inches from the outer walls.

• Soft foam inserts with customizable openings are an excellent option for items like fruit and jarred food.
• Always pack your perishable foods in a new, sturdy corrugated box.
• That goes for your foam cooler as well: Always enclose it in a sturdy box.
• Seal all seams of the box completely on top and bottom with pressure-sensitive packing tape.

Padding and packing is particularly important when it comes to shipping fruit. Whether you’re shipping from orchard to market or sending direct to consumer, you want the goods to arrive in the freshest condition. Follow these quick tips for best results:

Remove damaged or blemished fruits before packing. Remember the adage: a bad apple spoils the bunch. Avoid the temptation to squeeze softer fruits to test for ripeness. This can cause bruising. Inspect visually instead. Pick your primary container depending on the type (and volume) of fruit you are shipping. Wooden crates and trays work well for shipping oranges and other hard fruit. Plastic containers are great for small soft fruit, while molded trays are a good fit for anything that might easily bruise if rolled around—think peaches and pears. Corrugated fiberboard is another common option. Be mindful of the local climate you’re shipping to and from. Exposure to heat and humidity accelerates the ripening process. That’s why it’s important to know the optimal temperature for the fruit you’re shipping. Sweet cherries, for example, have short shelf lives and should be kept around freezing in transit. Fruits continue to breathe even after harvesting, taking in oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide. The rate at which fruits respire depends on the type of fruit and the temperature in transit. This may factor into other shipping considerations. When shipping apples, for instance, keep them apart from other produce insofar as possible as apples are prone to absorb surrounding smells. If you’re shipping in bulk, pack containers tightly together while ensuring sufficient ventilation. Use plastic lids to protect fruits from damage caused by surrounding containers. Use packing material within the container to prevent the contents from shifting around. Mark your outer containers as ‘Perishable.’

Shipping perishables, including fruit, is available on a contractual basis with UPS for shippers with regular volumes who comply with the applicable requirements, including any interstate rules and regulations. For best results, plan for a maximum transit time of 30 hours.

UPS Next Day Air ® service is recommended, though UPS 2nd Day Air ® shipping may be suitable for foods that require minimal temperature control. Ship early enough in the week so that your package will not sit over a weekend. Depending on what foods you are shipping and the size of the container, flat rate shipping using UPS 2nd Day Air ® may be an option.

Find out more about how UPS Simple Rate might work for you. Keep an eye on your goods and track your shipment with UPS ® Tracking, You can track a single shipment or up to 25 shipments at a time. Let your recipient know to expect the shipment. Sign up for UPS My Choice ® for Business and enjoy comprehensive visibility into your outbound shipments.

How do you ship lip balm without melting it?

With the holidays right around the corner, crafting for the holidays is in full swing. The holidays are a busy time for crafters because soap and beauty products make fantastic gifts! If your gift recipients or customers don’t live nearby, your products will need to be shipped.

• This can be a little nerve wracking, as homemade bath and body products are often delicate and heat sensitive.
• Nowing how to properly pack your items may save them from being damaged in transit.
• Below are basic tips on securely packaging and shipping your creations to ensure they arrive in perfect condition.

The first step to preparing your products for shipment is to evaluate what you are shipping. Are your products delicate, like bath bombs? Are they heat sensitive, like balms or lotions? Or maybe they are an awkward shape like soapy cupcakes. All of these factors will affect how your items are packed and shipped.

• Then, it’s time to consider the packaging materials and what shipping service you’d like to use.
• Products can be shipped in a wide variety of containers.
• In fact, there are so many different optionsit can be a little overwhelming! First, evaluate the package.
• How much product are you shipping? How much does it weigh? What shape are the items? For example, if you’re shipping one single bar of soap, your package strategy is going to be very different than if you are shipping a candle or bath bomb.

How large and heavy your package is may help you decide on what type of shipping carrier to use, as they all provide different services depending on the size and distance of your package. How large and heavy your items are will greatly affect how they are shipped. For smaller, sturdier items like cold process soap, an envelope can work well. Choosing Your Shipping Service What is the perfect shipping service? This is an impossible question to answer as there are so many variables to consider.

• Everything from package size, to location, all the way down to the driver that makes the delivery will determine which shipping service would be the best.
• Unfortunately, it is impossible for you to know if the UPS driver has been awarded Driver of the Year 5 years in a row, or will just throw the package over the fence for the dog to chew on (UPS has 450,000 employees after all).

Because things don’t always go as planned, it’s important to ship early and package your items securely just in case. One of the most popular shipping options for small businesses and smaller packages (under 5 pounds) is the United States Postal Service,

• In particular, USPS makes it easy with wide array of Priority Mail Boxes for free.
• Sizes range from envelopes to large boxes, and feature flat rate pricing (there are size restrictions which make this a limited option).
• FedEx and UPS are also popular choices, especially if you are shipping very large packages.

Both UPS and FedEx also offer free shipping materials for those who use their service. Other things to keep in mind when selecting a shipping method are insurance, confirmation and tracking options. To help find the right shipping option and carrier for you, check out the links below! If you sell on Etsy, they have some great tips for shipping success here.

USPS Mail & Shipping Services USPS Service Postage Price Calculator FedEx Shipping Rates UPS Shipping Time and Cost

Choosing Your Package Materials Selecting a shipping service and materials goes hand in hand, as many carriers provide free materials along with their service. But, it may be helpful to go over the two big options: boxes and envelopes. There are a wide variety of shipping services and package material options including envelopes and boxes.

Envelopes : Shipping your items in an envelope is a great option for small, durable packages. Envelopes usually feature a small amount of bubble wrap inside to provide padding, but don’t have a lot of space for added padding materials. Envelopes tend to work best for bars of soap because they are flat and sturdy. Envelopes are also suitable for small and durable items like lip balm and cosmetics. It’s possible to place larger items such as jars and bottles, just make sure the packaging is sturdy (glass is not recommended). Boxes: If your items are larger or unable to lay flat, a box is a better option than an envelope. They are also better suited for delicate items such as bath bombs, because they can be filled with plenty of padding materials (bubble wrap, packaging peanuts, etc) to keep the items from moving within the box. Choose a box that is slightly larger than the item to make room for packing material. Keep the items safe by placing them in the center of a sturdy box and taping the box securely. Keep in mind that your box will not remain upright throughout the shipping process, so make sure it is taped well.

Additional packing materials such as bubble wrap prevent your products from bouncing around within the box. These materials are also referred to as “loose fill,” as they fill up empty space within a box. Loose fill options vary in terms of effectiveness and price, so it’s important to consider the best option for you. Packing peanuts are a popular loose fill material that helps absorbs shock and prevent the items from moving within the box. Bubble wrap is one of the most economical options, and works great if you’re shipping items in a box with little extra space. Packing peanuts are another cost effective option and work well for a wide variety of box shapes and sizes.

Pros: Cost effective, easy to use, easy to cleanup, easy to wrap around products, works especially well for square/uniform shaped items, good for lightweight items Cons: Not very effective for filling extra space within a box

Packing Peanuts

Pros: Cost effective, great for filling empty space within a box, absorbs shock within a box, good for lightweight items Cons: Messy, may not be effective for extremely heavy packages. If using recyclable or biodegradable packing peanuts, peanuts will melt if any leaks happen during package transit.

Foam Packaging

Pros: Form fitting to individual items, good for a variety of different shapes, high level of protection, good for heavier items Cons: Can be expensive and foam machines have high set-up costs.

Once you have your box and loose fill material, it’s time to put it all together! First, fill the bottom of the box with a little bit of fill material, at least 1″ thick. Place the item in the center, and cover with more fill material until it’s well cushioned in the box. Wrapping your products in protective material such as bubble wrap or paper help protect them during transit. Before securing your box with tape, give it a good shake to make sure the items inside are secure and do not move within the box. Use a sturdy plastic or reinforced paper tape to seal the center of the box. Taping all the seams of the box with packaging tape ensure the box is securely shut. Considering Hot and Cold Temperatures If you’re sending your items during the holiday season, chances are you don’t need to worry about heat damaging your items. But if you’re shipping in a hot climate you may want to take extra precautions to ensure your recipients receive their items in mint condition.

• These steps include packing heat sensitive items with ice packs, shipping with an expedited option and performing a “ship test.” Check out the Soaping in the Summer Heat blog post for more tips on shipping items in hot temperatures.
• Luckily, cold temperatures do not negatively affect homemade bath and beauty like extreme heat.

Many products can freeze and thaw without major side effects. How your products react to extremely cold temperatures will depend on your unique recipe. Cured cold process soap can freeze and thaw without major problems (you may find it sweats a little).

When melt and pour soap freezes and thaws, the soap may produce glycerin dew. Read more about glycerin dew (and how to prevent it) here, Emulsified products (products made by emulsifying oil and water together, like lotion) are heat sensitive. When lotions freeze and thaw, the emulsification may break and the lotion can separate.

This also applies to other emulsified products, such as heavier creams and scrubs. Oil + wax balms are also heat sensitive (this includes lip balms and lipsticks) and need more TLC for shipping during the summer than during the colder months. If your product is sensitive to humidity (such as bath bombs) you may want to include moisture absorbing silica packets in your box as well.

1. If you’re unsure how your product will react to extremely cold temperatures, you may want to place your product in the freezer for 2-3 days and allow it to thaw at room temperature.
2. This will give you a good idea of what will happen when your product comes in contact with cold temperatures during shipping.

Inform Your Recipients The last piece to make sure your items safely arrive to their destination, is to inform the recipients. Packages can get left at alternative entrances such as back or side doors. This may cause the package to sit in the hot sun or rain for several days.

1. Your recipient may prefer to have their package sent to an office space, or to a friends house where it can be received immediately.
2. In addition, if you are selling your items that are heat or cold sensitive, you may consider encouraging your customers to choose expedited, 2-day, or overnight shipping.

Customers may also be able to sign up for FedEx and UPS services that will text or email them the status of their orders and their locations. Shipping homemade beauty products can be a little stressful. After all, you put so much hard work into making it, and want your recipients to receive them in tip-top shape.

1. But with a little planning ahead and plenty of protective material, shipping is simple.
2. It’s also a learning process; the more you package and ship items, the better you’ll get at it! This post only scratches the surface, and I encourage you to chat with other soapers to learn what packing and shipping techniques work best for them.

In particular, the Teach Soap Forum is an amazing resource for reaching out to other soapers and small business owners. If you have any tips or tricks for safely packaging your items, I would love to hear them.