posted on October 13, 2002 11:32:23 AM new
I have sent a few packages now via fedex ground but I'm packing up a glass teapot for shipping tomorrow. What is your experience with fragile items sent this way? Can I pack it just as I would for priority mail? (Small bubble wrap & Large bubble wrap & peanuts). I've heard that UPS is hard on packages, but I haven't heard about fedex ground.
posted on October 13, 2002 05:24:05 PM new
I use FedEx Ground all of the time. I started using RPS which is now FedEx. I will tell you this, if it breaks, its your FAULT. You didn't pack it properly. It soundsto me that you are doing it right. If you want to be safe, double box it. Have at least 1 inch of clearance between all surfaces. Just stuff newspaper in the space all of the way around,including top & bottom. Ideal on china & fragile things. Rarely have a claim.
posted on October 19, 2002 01:30:59 AM new
I just got a package with some bowls. They were double boxed, but I don't think there was enough cushioning between the inner and outer boxes. Three of the bowls were broken, and I just started a claim. After sanmar's comment, I'm crossing my fingers that it'll be paid!!
posted on October 23, 2002 11:52:20 AM new
Last year I shipped about 10 auction items with Fedex (both ground and air). All items were kitchen glassware and breakable. They literally broke about half of the items, and to date, have NOT PAID one claim. I would definitely stay away from them if I were you.
posted on October 23, 2002 07:09:45 PM new
Put it it this way, if it breaks, it is your fault. You didn't do a good job of packing. In 4 plus years, I have had 3 pieces broken & I deal in china primarily. I get glowing feedbacks as to my packing. On gal in SC said "You could have dropped the pkg. from a 3 story building w/o damage."
3 rules.1. lots of wrapping, either foam or bubblewrap. 2, If really fragile, box separately, & double box. 3. Over pack so there is no chance of movement. Use peanuts or shredded paper. When I use peanuts, I over fill the box & squeeze the top shut with pressure. With shredded paper (which I use most of the time) I pack carefully around the edges & top & bottom, making sure there are no gaps. I have been selling china for over 8 years & very rarely do I havew breakage. I have learned from experience.
posted on October 24, 2002 06:41:37 AM new
Have never had a problem with Fedex Ground. Ship about 20 to 30 packages a month and most are fragile. It is very convenient to print out pre-paid address label then just drop off package. Don't use UPS.
posted on October 24, 2002 08:29:51 PM new
I really like Fed Ex Ground for all smaller items. I find they are less expensive than the Post Office or UPS. If something does get damaged by chance, you don't have to go thru the Spanish Inquisition like at the US Post Office...
posted on October 24, 2002 08:50:17 PM new
I ship about 40 items a month through FedEx Ground and have extremely good service with them with very little damage. I ship mostly glass and pottery, but have also shipped delicate electronic test equipment with equally good results. If it's not packed properly, ANY carrier will destroy it as the handling in the back room, out of the sight of the customer, is about the same for all of them. Don't be afraid to spend an extra five minutes or so and use a little extra styrofoam or bubblewrap to pack it right. It'll pay off in the long run.
The light at the end of the tunnel will turn out to be an oncoming train.
posted on October 25, 2002 10:11:26 AM new
Use double the bubblewrap, don't just wrap in newspaper for glass which won't absorb shock. Double boxing doesn't help for glass items either. I have shipped items in only bubble wrap with brown wrapping paper and it arrived safe. So bubble wrap is the way to go.
Fedex has announced improved claim handling recently.
