How Do You Send Candles In The Mail?
Mailing candles has become increasingly popular in recent years. According to market research, the global candle market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.10% between 2023 and 2030 (https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/candles-market). People enjoy sending candles as gifts or selling them online because they are affordable, customizable, and ship relatively easily. However, properly packaging and shipping candles through the mail does come with some key considerations.
The candle’s wax, wick, fragrance, and container materials all require special handling to prevent leaks, breaks, or other shipping damage. Factors like weather and international customs can also complicate the process. With the right materials and preparation, candles can safely be shipped domestically and internationally.
This article will provide tips and guidelines for choosing candle packaging, padding candles to prevent damage, selecting shipping carriers and services, purchasing insurance, accommodating international shipping regulations, and exploring alternatives to mailing candles yourself.
Choosing Candle Containers
When mailing candles, it’s important to package them in a container that will prevent leaking and breakage. You have three main options for candle vessels – tin, glass, and plastic.
Tin containers are attractive and give a vintage look, but they can dent or crack more easily in shipping. Make sure any seams are well sealed with hot glue. Glass looks upscale but is heavy and prone to breaking. Bubble wrap and foam padding are essential. Plastic containers like polypropylene are lightweight, durable, and leakproof. However, they don’t have the refined look of tin or glass.
Whichever material you choose, the container must have a tight-fitting, leakproof lid. The candle should fit snugly without a lot of empty space that allows it to shift during transit. According to Flush Packaging, taper candles are safest in upright boxes, while container candles and votives can lay on their sides.
Padding the Candles
Properly padding candles inside the shipping box is crucial to prevent breakage during transit. According to the USPS, there should be at least 2 inches of cushioning material surrounding the candles on all sides inside the box (Source).
There are several good options for padding candle shipments:
- Bubble wrap – Wrapping each candle individually in bubble wrap before placing in the box provides an extra layer of shock absorption. Use bubble wrap with bubbles of at least 1⁄4 inch size.
- Crumpled paper – Packing paper, tissue paper, newsprint or kraft paper can be loosely crumpled up and used to fill voids around candles. Ensure there are no hard edges or corners in the crumpled paper touching the candles.
- Packing peanuts – Pouring packing peanuts around the bubble-wrapped candles is an easy way to stabilize them in the box. Use an appropriate amount to immobilize candles while not crushing them.
Test shaking the closed box to ensure there is no movement or noise. Add extra padding if needed before sealing the box.
Sealing the Box
Properly sealing the box is crucial to ensure candles arrive safely. Use a sturdy packing tape to seal all openings and seams on the box. Packaging experts recommend using a reinforced tape with fiberglass thread such as Scotch Box Sealing Tape or another heavy duty tape. Make sure to seal the bottom seam and all flaps with 2-3 strips of tape for maximum durability.
Pay extra attention to reinforcing the edges and corners of the box, as these are the most vulnerable areas for damage. Consider using edge protectors or corner reinforcement tape on the external corners and edges for added support. Tape down any internal seams inside the box as well. By thoroughly sealing all potential openings, you can help prevent the box from bursting open during transit.
Labeling the Package
Properly labeling candle packages is crucial for safe delivery. Here are some key labeling tips:
Use fragile stickers or tape on all sides of the box. Candles are fragile and can break during shipping, so indicating this helps carriers handle with care. Choose stickers or tape that say “Fragile” or “Handle with Care.”
Add “This Side Up” arrow stickers on two sides of the box pointing upward. This shows carriers which side should face up to keep candles upright and prevent wax from leaking if jars tip over.
Include a candle graphic on the box. A drawing, photo, or icon depicting a candle helps identify the fragile contents inside.
List candle scents, colors, sizes, etc. Providing details about candles inside gives carriers a clear picture of what they’re handling.
Adding proper labeling is a simple way to help ensure candles arrive safely. Fragile stickers, this side up arrows, candle graphics, and descriptions give carriers important cues for gentle handling.
Shipping Carrier Options
When shipping candles, you have several options for carriers including USPS, UPS, and FedEx. Each carrier has pros and cons to consider.
USPS offers affordable shipping rates, especially for smaller packages under 1 lb. You can ship Priority Mail or First Class which takes 2-3 days for delivery. However, USPS does not offer overnight or 2-day shipping options.
UPS and FedEx provide faster shipping times for priority packages. This includes 2nd day air and next day air options. However, the rates are significantly higher compared to USPS. UPS and FedEx rates start at around $15 for a 1 lb package whereas USPS Priority can be as low as $7.
For ground shipping, USPS and UPS have very similar rates based on weight and distance. Ground takes 4-8 days on average. FedEx Home Delivery is slightly more expensive than USPS/UPS ground. Overall, FedEx and UPS offer faster transit times for priority air services, but they come at a premium.
According to Easyship, USPS Priority Mail is one of the most affordable and reliable options for shipping candles under 1 lb. The flat rate priority mail boxes and envelopes can also help streamline packaging and keep costs low.
Insurance
Insuring your candle shipments can help protect your business financially in the event that a package is lost or damaged. According to Next Insurance, candle store insurance can cost as little as $25 per month, though prices vary based on factors like revenue, location, and claims history.
Some key benefits of insuring candle shipments include:
- Coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged packages
- Protection against customer complaints or legal claims
- Peace of mind knowing shipments are protected
To file an insurance claim for a damaged or lost candle shipment:
- Contact the shipping carrier and request a claim form
- Provide details and documentation about the damaged/lost package
- Submit the completed claim form to the insurance provider
- The insurance company will investigate and determine if the claim is approved
- You will receive reimbursement for the insured value of the lost/damaged package
Having insurance can provide valuable protection for small businesses regularly shipping fragile items like candles.
International Shipping
When shipping candles internationally, there are some additional factors to consider compared to domestic shipping within the US. According to this Reddit thread, candles are generally not prohibited items for import into most countries. However, it’s important to check the specific customs regulations for the destination country.
Extra padding and insulation is recommended when shipping overseas, as transit times can often be longer and conditions rougher. The candles should be very securely packed to prevent any damage or leaks during transport. According to Eurosender, delivery times can range from 4-8 days for Europe to up to 4 weeks for some long distance international shipments.
It’s also advised to include extra documentation like a commercial invoice and certificate of origin. Using a courier service or shipping provider that offers tracking and insurance is highly recommended for international candle shipments.
Alternatives to Shipping
While shipping candles can be done safely with proper packaging, some people may want to avoid the hassle and potential risks of shipping fragile items. Here are some alternatives to consider:
Local Delivery
For candles made and sold locally, delivering orders yourself is an option. This allows you to have full control over the candles and personally ensure they arrive undamaged. You can transport the candles in your own vehicle and hand them directly to the customer.
Apps like Instacart, UberRush, and TaskRabbit connect local businesses with drivers for same-day delivery. This is often more affordable than national shipping for short distances. Just package the candles securely and provide detailed delivery instructions.
Pick Up Options
Allowing local customers to pick up orders can also avoid shipping. Specify pick up times and have the order ready in a secure area. Make sure fragile items like candles are packed well for the customer’s trip home.
For wider pick up availability, partnering with a local shop as a pick up point could work. The customer gets their candles conveniently without direct shipping, while the shop benefits from increased foot traffic.
Overall, local delivery and pick up put the shipping control in your hands. Just remember to still package candles carefully, even for short trips.
Summary
Properly packaging candles for shipping is essential to ensuring they arrive intact. Key steps include choosing rigid containers, padding the candles with cardboard or bubble wrap, and tightly sealing the box. The right mailing materials prevent breakage or leaking, which are the main risks when shipping candles. USPS Priority Mail and UPS Ground are two reliable domestic shipping options, while FedEx International offers reasonable rates for global deliveries. Declaring the full value and purchasing insurance protects against loss or damage. With careful preparation, mailing candles across town or around the world is perfectly feasible.
Shipping candles requires forethought to keep them safe in transit. Packing them snugly in inflexible, sturdy boxes with ample cushioning materials minimizes jostling and protects the wax from cracking or candles from snapping. Tight, leak-proof seals prevent wax from escaping. Appropriate shipping services, insurance coverage, and international paperwork further ensure the package arrives intact. Following these best practices allows candle sellers, businesses, and individuals to reliably mail candles anywhere they need to go.
