posted on May 16, 2006 07:15:28 AM new
Not sure what type of album you mean. If it's a record album, then air letter post is probably the way to go.
If it happens to be something of any value, then you might wish to go for air PARCEL post, which does include a small amount of insurance coverage automatically and the parcel should be scanned when delivered. (If you accept Paypal as payment, this doesn't protect you from a chargeback as far as Paypal is concerned. If your buyer has a decent feedback record, you probably don't need to be concerned.)
Size regulations for air letter post packages to Japan are:
a. Minimum length and height: 5-1/2 x 3-1/2 inches.
b. Minimum depth (thickness): .007 inch.
c. Maximum length: 24 inches.
d. Maximum length, height, depth (thickness) combined: 36 inches.
You can check costs and other information for mailing to Japan on the postal service web site:
http://pe.usps.gov/text/imm/immicl/immiclhk_014.html
posted on May 16, 2006 07:37:31 AM new
An album is probably just a bit too big for letter post. But I can't imagine that parcel post is going to be that much more expensive to ship.
posted on May 16, 2006 08:11:43 AM new
If it's a record album, it shouldn't be too large to ship via air LETTER post. (Would not be over 24 inches long or the 36 inches combined). Most LP records run about 12 inches wide. Of course, the original poster could be speaking about a different type of album.
I have shipped LP records to Japan via air letter post and had no problem.
A 2 pound package shipped to Japan by air letter post would be $12.95; and by air parcel post would be $21.60.
posted on May 16, 2006 10:37:53 AM new
I agree with Melissa about air letter sizes. I've been pleasantly surprised at what bulky items I've had to ship that could go that route. In my experience, air parcel post has been much more expensive.
I just shipped an "oldie" (LP Album) to Japan last week, via USPS Air Letter. The actual shipping fee was less than the on-line USPS site quoted. It arrived quickly and all in one piece, per the feedback I got on it.
posted on May 17, 2006 04:23:52 AM new
Pat, how did you pack it? I was think about using the box that I get my #4 boxes in from the post office.
I billed him and he has already paid. I took his paypal which I normally don't on international but it's Japan so I'm not too worried.
Hope you did as well as I did
posted on May 17, 2006 06:48:22 AM new
Good morning, Lady!
I now ship all of my albums in 'specific for albums' boxes purchased on eBay. I reinforce them with bubble wrap, cut to the size of the album, then add extra cardboard on both sides to make the box stronger.
Originally, I got a few clean boxes from Pizza Hut and they worked great! (OK, Guys and Gals! No wise cracks about pizza boxes for shipping!) I turned the boxes inside-out (no Pizza Hut advertising -- and they gave the boxes to me for FREE!) The boxes are sturdy and just the right size. Packed firmly with bubble-wrap on both sides and an extra layer of cardboard, you should have no problems.
Don't know what your's sold for, but sounds like it was a good sale. I'm happy for you!
Mine are all listed in my store in the $5 to $10 range (no competitive bidding) and this sale was in the latter, plus $12.00 shipping. At just under 1# weight, the Air Post fee was only $9.95. My surprise and a little bonus for me!
Any further questions, I'm happy to assist! I learn far more from this board than I can contribute, so am over-joyed to be able to help where I can!
posted on May 17, 2006 08:50:23 AM new
Thanks Pat
This information will come in handy if my husband ever decides to get rid of his 10,000 albums!!! He has let me sell about 5 or 6 that were rare as he collects for his own use - not resale. This way I don't say "OMG not another album!!!!"
We're still looking for another $600 Beatles album!!!
I had never intended selling albums, but when my Dad passed away I inherited his vast collection of classical music -- but not his beautiful old stereo turntable. My brother wanted the turntable, then tossed it without letting me know. Couldda' shot him!
So...here I sit with all these wonderful old albums, tenderly cared for over the last 50+ years, and no way to listen to them. I have, over time, replaced many of them with CDs to bring back the memories of home, but it is still hard to let them go...
Then I bought an antique Victrola which didn't work at all, and the seller threw in over 200 Pop albums. The Victrola sits in the garage 'til I can refurbish it into something useful, and the albums -- one-by-one --- are getting listed. Sold enough of the combination so far to pay for the Victrola. So I'm not complaining...
Everytime I sell one of those "Victrola-free" albums I hold my breath. Not having a turntable to test them on (and so stated in my listings) I'm never quite sure of the quality. (Dad's I have no doubts about.) So far -- so good. Visual checking is all I can do. And pray, of course...
Pat
Edited to add:
I'll keep my eyes open for the Beatles. I'm always searching eBay for comps on my albums, and other items. I'll keep you in mind...
