How to Ship a Gift Basket

Have you created the perfect gift basket but now need to figure out how to ship it? There are several important considerations to ensure that your gift basket arrives in perfect condition:

1) Prepare the Basket for Shipping

When creating your basket, be sure to place items evenly throughout the container so that weight is distributed throughout the container. Nestle items in a high quality paper shred (you may want to stabilize the basket or container first with several sheets of crumpled kraft paper). Secure items to each other with high tack glue dots to ensure they do not shift during shipping. Wrap the basket in cellophane and tie at the top with a decorative bow. Alternatively, use dome shrink wrap bags (available online from many gift basket supply stores) and use a heat gun to shrink wrap your basket. Be sure to cut any extra wrap from the bottom of the basket for a clean presentation.

2) Consider the Weather and Season

Are you shipping chocolate or other perishables to a warm destination? If so, consider using ice packs or shipping via overnight delivery to ensure your creation does not melt or spoil.

3) Pick the Right Box

Use a sturdy box that is at least 2 inches wider (on each side), deeper and higher than your basket. This extra space is used for the cushioning that will protect your basket. Keep in mind that non-standard boxes can incur higher shipping costs.

4) Include Cushioning

The proper cushioning ensures that your basket does not get damaged in transit. There are many cushioning options including heavy kraft paper to wrap around the basket or fill gaps, bubble wrap, packing peanuts, and pillow packs. You may find that a combination of cushioning works best. Some cushioning such as packing peanuts can be expensive to purchase (and very expensive to ship to you due to bulk). Recycling cushioning products you have from packages you have received is always a good idea.

5) Weigh the Entire Package

To get an accurate total shipping weight, weigh the entire package with cushioning. Heavy gift baskets can be very expensive to ship. To control costs, use lightweight items in your basket. For items in jars (dips, jellies, etc.), use the smaller sizes offered by gourmet suppliers.

6) Pick Shipping Company

If you plan on shipping baskets frequently, contact each shipping company that serves your area to determine which has the service and pricing options that meet your needs. Many shipping companies enable online preparation of shipping labels and a tracking mechanism. If you run a gift basket business, let your customers know whether you deliver to Hawaii, Alaska, international destinations, APO/FPO addresses, P.O. Boxes or whether you have any other shipping restrictions.

You have taken the time to create a beautiful basket. Make sure you take the necessary steps to have your basket arrive in perfect condition.

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