Use sturdy boxes in good condition: clean, no holes, and able to fully contain the books.

Unlike local transfers, boxes shipped commercially must be fully packed to the top. This will prevent the box being crushed by weight from above.

Pack books in the box flat in either one or two stacks (spine to spine). See images below.

Pack boxes to no more than 40 pounds (25 lbs max for fragile or special collections).  If you haven’t filled the box when you get to 40 lbs, use a smaller box.

Distribute the weight evenly in the box to reduce risk of dropping and ergonomic issues.

Packing material

• Packing material may include clean scrap paper, bubble wrap, or other cushioning material.
• A single layer of clean, dry, flat packing material (like thin bubble wrap) is sufficient protection on the bottom and/or top. 
• Further packing material should be inserted into empty spaces to immobilize the books from the side, but not so tight that they are difficult to remove.
• If you need to use a lot of packing material, use a smaller box.

Oversized volumes may not lean diagonally inside the box. Place anything too big for the standard box in a larger box.

Make sure that the box is fully closed and securely taped shut before mailing.