Being so far away from my family, over 2,000 miles to be exact, I send a lot of packages and letters. A big chunk of my family has never met my children we live so far away. So I send tons of pictures and crafts the kids have made to my family. Yes, the internet is a great way to send photos too, but there are people who don’t have computers. S when shipping items out I make sure I do it right.

Choosing the right supplies:

•  Use sturdy boxes with flaps intact. For heavier items, use double-wall boxes.  Keep within the weight specifications for your box. 
• Make sure your box is large enough to put adequate padding around contents. Position your item in the center of the box and surround by cushioning such as bubble wrap, packing “peanuts,” densely packed shredded paper or foam pads. Use enough packing material – ideally one inch on all sides – so the item does not shift during transit. 
• Use tape designed for packing, not duct or masking tape. Use the “H Tape” method to securely close all of the box flaps.
• Do not wrap the outer box with paper or string, which can get caught in automated processing equipment.
• FedEx Office offers a variety of the most popular packing supplies, including boxes, tape, bubble wrap and other essentials for purchase.  Locations also provide free FedEx shipping supplies for FedEx Express shipments.

Correct Labeling:

• Position the address label squarely on the largest surface, and provide complete sender and recipient addresses, including phone numbers and ZIP codes.
• Put the recipient’s address and your return address inside the box as well.

Always Ship Early:

• For delivery by Monday, February 14, customers have until Wednesday, February 9 to find and send that perfect Valentine’s Day gift via FedEx Ground or FedEx Home Delivery.  Last-minute shoppers have until Saturday, February 12 to ship overnight via FedEx Express. 
•  If looking specifically to send flowers, customers have until Sunday, February 13 at noon PST/3 p.m. EST to order from ProFlowers.com and still get flowers delivered on Valentine’s Day.

Don’t forget that by going to www.fedex.com you can track packages, find locations, get information and so much more.

Are you looking to send someone you love a package this Valentines day?

I have a FED Ex gift pack to offer one reader

You will win:

1.  An 8x8x8 brown FedEx box 
2.  A roll of heavy-duty packing tape   
3.  Bubble wrap
4. Brown packing paper
5. Valentine’s-themed cards to include a sweet note inside your packed box
6. A $25 American Express gift card to ship your gifts at any FedEx location
7. A Pack & Ship Tips sheet loaded with helpful info FedEx packaging experts

To win tell me what you would send?

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contest ends 2/14/11

Disclosure: No monetary compensation was received, a prize pack was provided by the company who is also sponsoring the giveaway