I am writting this guide because I as a BUYER got burned on shipping insurance. I bought a piece of  Tupperware Ultra 21. The seller apparently thought because it was Tupperware it was indestructable. NOT SO! It was not properly packaged for something that CAN get broken. I purchased insurance but due to improper packaging the post office would not honor the insurance.

So you are selling glasses, collectables and other breakable items. You are going to require insurance for this auction. Here are some things you as a seller need to know.

PACKAGING, PACKAGING, PACKAGING!

Can't say this enough. Packaging is everything. Don't assume that because you wrapped that stemware in bubble wrap its safe. Don't assume that because you used packing peanuts that it's safe. While these are good tools they are not 100%. If it rattles it will break. If it touches the sides of the box it can break from being dropped.

Understand, if there is no visable damage to the box the Insurance Claim will be denied. If the it is improperly packaged the claim will be denied.

It is up to us as Sellers to make sure our Buyers get what they paid for all in one piece. If an item is hollow, like a vase or glasses, that every hollow space is packed with paper! Yes, paper.  Stuff it in tighly and then wrap bubble wrap or foam wrap around it and tape it down so it can't come out. This re-enforces the glass to withstand pressure from packing peanuts.

For stems you need to wrap several layers of paper or foam around them until they are even with the sides of the glass. Then wrap the whole item one more time in bubble wrap. If you can get to a liquor store you can get free boxes that bottles came in. These are great for shipping glasses. If you don't want to actually ship in the liquor box you can still utilize the dividers in another box. Then add packing peanuts to fill all empty space inside the box. Do not place any glasses in the outer spaces, you don't want any glass touching the outside wall of the box.

Paper does have it's place in packaging. Shredded paper is best. Invest in a $10 shredder and recycle your evening newspaper. The fact is, newspaper alone compacts and packing peanuts settle during shipping. I found that when you mix the two together you get a great packing material. I put a layer of paper, then a layer of peanuts on the bottom of the box. Then I mix the two together for the rest of the box to place around whatever I'm shipping. Then peanuts again & paper again on the top.

Remember: It may add to the shipping weight but it makes getting insurance claims paid! And your customer will be happy that you took the time to care how you packed their glassware.