Shipping caps

[Jhonan]

What is the cheapest way you know to ship caps (while having them survive the trip)?

[nubbinator]

What is the cheapest way you know to ship caps (while having them survive the trip)?

The difference between a box and a bubble mailer is marginal.  I always like to send in a box.

[azhdar]

bubble mailer unless it's a full keyset then a box is required.

[nubbinator]

bubble mailer unless it's a full keyset then a box is required.

The price difference is practically non-existent.  A pack of boxes + bubble wrap (or re-using bubble wrap) costs the same in materials, the weight is almost exactly the same, and there's no price difference with First Class between a bubble mailer and a box.  A box is also far less likely to get crushed or punctured and, if it does, wrapping your caps in bubble wrap in a bag makes it less likely to lose anything than in a bubble mailer.

[tigersharkdude]

Box > Bubble Mailer

A bubble mailer is like $2, and two day shipping is usually like $4. So $6 total

A small usps flat rate box is $5.85, put the cap in a sandwich baggy and ball up some paper for packing.

About the same total and you get some peace of mind that they are less likely to crush or lose a box compared to an envelope

*due note that my prices are in store prices, I don't use the online postage because I don't have a small scale

[azhdar]

bubble mailer unless it's a full keyset then a box is required.

The price difference is practically non-existent.  A pack of boxes + bubble wrap (or re-using bubble wrap) costs the same in materials, the weight is almost exactly the same, and there's no price difference with First Class between a bubble mailer and a box.  A box is also far less likely to get crushed or punctured and, if it does, wrapping your caps in bubble wrap in a bag makes it less likely to lose anything than in a bubble mailer.

Your above post doesn't apply to France and probably a lot of others countries that aren't France.

[nubbinator]

More

bubble mailer unless it's a full keyset then a box is required.

The price difference is practically non-existent.  A pack of boxes + bubble wrap (or re-using bubble wrap) costs the same in materials, the weight is almost exactly the same, and there's no price difference with First Class between a bubble mailer and a box.  A box is also far less likely to get crushed or punctured and, if it does, wrapping your caps in bubble wrap in a bag makes it less likely to lose anything than in a bubble mailer.

Your above post doesn't apply to France and probably a lot of others countries that aren't France.

Because OP is in France...

[azhdar]

More

bubble mailer unless it's a full keyset then a box is required.

The price difference is practically non-existent.  A pack of boxes + bubble wrap (or re-using bubble wrap) costs the same in materials, the weight is almost exactly the same, and there's no price difference with First Class between a bubble mailer and a box.  A box is also far less likely to get crushed or punctured and, if it does, wrapping your caps in bubble wrap in a bag makes it less likely to lose anything than in a bubble mailer.

Your above post doesn't apply to France and probably a lot of others countries that aren't France.

Because OP is in France...

Nvm didn't looked his location.

[jonathanyu]

put caps in a box, and put the box in a large bubble mailer

[ripwallet]

Hmm not sure i would assume bubble mailer but i use flat rate boxes

[alexjd99]

For sets, probably just a plastic bag with some sort of protection like bubble wrap in a box.
Artisans, I would probably put them in a small bag and wrap in bubble wrap, in a large envelope

[jerue]

CONUS, flat rate box always. You can print/pay for these online because it's flat rate, no weighing game required.

International...this can be a little tricky. Bubble mailers for me usually end up being cheaper, though I have never sent a full set of caps overseas; I am preparing to send a set over and might be able to fit into a bubble mailer but we will have to see. A similar size package would cost about $20 if done in the proper box, could be as low as $12-13 if in a good bubble mailer

edit: adjusted prices

[Belfong]

What is the cheapest way you know to ship caps (while having them survive the trip)?

The difference between a box and a bubble mailer is marginal.  I always like to send in a box.

I agree with nubbs here. Even in Malaysia the post office treats bubble mailer as sending merchandize, not documents and as such, they charge the same shipping fees as a parcel. If that’s the case I always prefer sending box.

[Jhonan]

Awesome answers everyone, thanks

[absyrd]

I always go bubble wrap inside a box, too. Even if it is just 1 cap, the size and weight difference has very little effect on cost. Also, it doesn't hurt that USPS provides the small flat rate boxes at no cost (or baked into shipping fee).

[sitch]

I tried shipping keycaps sets using thick bubble wraps inside a bubble mail, survive shipping to US no problem, next time maybe I should try using box 

[icedogg]

I've done bubble wrap mailer and box. Prefer box ad it's more secure. Usually toss in some bubble wrap and put the cap in a baggy with a little bubble wrap. Bought a cap couple months ago & he shipped it in a bubble mailer, just a baggy inside with no wrap. Looked like it was ran over or crushed in mail, let's say cap was exposed in packaging &  damaged. Went through PayPal & settled
Don't sacrifice too much on shipping imo.

[1swt2gs]

Super interesting to see all these answers because the majority of artisans that have been sent to me usually are just in a tiny zip lock bag with bubbler in CONUS.

No problems so far. I usually ship mine in a bubbler with some extra bubbler inside.

[pr0ximity]

People in CONUS, any feasible way to get affordable tracking to Europe? Something I've never figured out. Guy at USPS wanted $100 for a bubble mailer to the UK... 

[tigersharkdude]

People in CONUS, any feasible way to get affordable tracking to Europe? Something I've never figured out. Guy at USPS wanted $100 for a bubble mailer to the UK... 

Check the usps website. I sent a top case to the UK  (keyboard size box) for like $20

[Binge]

What is the cheapest way you know to ship caps (while having them survive the trip)?

Buy 100 keycap sets, arrange another 300 items to ship, and then get all of your packaging for pennies per package.

[jaffers]

I'm in Aus and I know that you guys can get free boxes in 'murica... https://store.usps.com/store/browse/subcategory.jsp?categoryId=shipping-boxes

[1swt2gs]

I'm in Aus and I know that you guys can get free boxes in 'murica... https://store.usps.com/store/browse/subcategory.jsp?categoryId=shipping-boxes

They have tricked out holiday versions too! Pretty awesome!

[rowdy]

I'm in Aus and I know that you guys can get free boxes in 'murica... https://store.usps.com/store/browse/subcategory.jsp?categoryId=shipping-boxes

That totally suxes.  I could do with a dozen of the Model M sized keyboard boxes.

[Jhonan]

What is the cheapest way you know to ship caps (while having them survive the trip)?

Buy 100 keycap sets, arrange another 300 items to ship, and then get all of your packaging for pennies per package.

Lol, I don't quite have your level of resources available Binge

[SpAmRaY]

People in CONUS, any feasible way to get affordable tracking to Europe? Something I've never figured out. Guy at USPS wanted $100 for a bubble mailer to the UK... 

Using USPS first class international online I've sent bubble mailers and smaller boxes for ~$6 up to $15 depending on weight and they had tracking.

If you use usps priority the price increases significantly especially for larger heavier items.

[Belfong]

Super interesting to see all these answers because the majority of artisans that have been sent to me usually are just in a tiny zip lock bag with bubbler in CONUS.

No problems so far. I usually ship mine in a bubbler with some extra bubbler inside.

I have gas mask visors broken when shipped in a bubble mailer because some post office guy decided to stamp hard onto the envelop. From then on, I don’t really trust bubble mailer. The most frustrating thing is that CC always ship in bubble mailer and so, waiting for your win from CC is a finger gnawing, nervous ordeal.

[Waateva]

Not exactly keycaps, but I just received a couple Zealios switches to test that were sent in a bubble mailer.  No issues with it, but I personally prefer to ship keycaps and switches in small boxes, because as others have mentioned the price is negligible and boxes "feel" like they would be more secure and safe.

[SamirD]

A box is going to win hands down against a bubble mailer.  If the cost is negligible and you want your customers to be happy (not to mention the time you spent making the product), I wouldn't ship anything but boxes.

I'd also use a service that has tracking and insurance like UPS.  I used to ship automotive parts using them and their prompt payment of damage claims and guaranteed delivery times on ground (they're the only carrier that will guarantee delivery times with ground--not on time, you get a refund on the delivery charges) made them our only choice for shipping.  The volume discount helped a lot too.  It's quite a bit cheaper than walking into a UPS store or other retail outlet.

[Hexterdude]

Whats the cheapest way to send a tracked international package? (Package being a single keycap)

[SamirD]

That's a tough one.  What countries are the source/destination?

[Hexterdude]

That's a tough one.  What countries are the source/destination?

US to Canada

[SamirD]

USPS registered mail is probably the cheapest secure method.

[Hexterdude]

Does it offer tracking though?

[Waateva]

Does it offer tracking though?

Yes, I see it listed as a service on their website

https://tools.usps.com/go/TrackConfirmAction_input

[SamirD]

Looks like they have Registered mail as an option on their cheapest service, which is first class mail:

Registered Mail International
Registered Mail™ (International) is a service that allows you to register certain international mail for additional protection and security. Features of this service include:

A mailing receipt is issued by office of mailing.
Registered Mail service provides the sender with a mailing receipt, and upon request, when available, electronic verification that an article was delivered, or that an attempt at delivery was made.
Registered Mail service is handled separately from all other mail, and records are kept by registry number.
In destination countries, Registered Mail items are handled according to their own internal procedures.
Return receipts may also be added. (Check for availability by Calculating Postage)
Padded envelopes are accepted for International Registered Mail items.
Availability
Customers may purchase Registered Mail service for items that weigh up to 4 pounds and up to $400 in value with the international products listed below. Registered Mail service is not available with Global Express Guaranteed, Priority Mail Express International, or Priority Mail International parcels or any M-bag service. See Individual Country Listings for additional country-specific prohibitions and restrictions. Registered Mail service is available for the following types of mail:

Flat Rate Envelopes listed in 232.2, including free matter for the blind items.
Small Flat Rate Priced Boxes listed in 232.2, including free matter for the blind items.
First-Class Mail International items, including free matter for the blind items.
First-Class Package International Service items, including free matter for the blind items.

I remember now that registered was THE way to send things international when I wanted to make sure it got there.

[SpAmRaY]

That's a tough one.  What countries are the source/destination?

US to Canada

~$6 to $7 using bubble mailer or find your own small box if you use USPS online choose first class international it'll come with tracking

[shibataken]

As a buyer I would always prefer a box or hard cardboard lining a bubble mailer.  Seen too many horror stories from postal services, regardless of country to always be overly cautious.

[Glenmael]

Anyone have an actual shipping provider link to what is cheapest (with/without tracking)?

For example I use the following to estimate:
http://ircalc.usps.com/Default.aspx?country=10013&m=0&dpb=0&mdt=2015%2f11%2f02+08%3a00

However this always (mostly) gives me packages in the ~25$ range.

For clarification I'm in Australia and mostly get stuff shipped over from US.

[SpAmRaY]

Anyone have an actual shipping provider link to what is cheapest (with/without tracking)?

For example I use the following to estimate:
http://ircalc.usps.com/Default.aspx?country=10013&m=0&dpb=0&mdt=2015%2f11%2f02+08%3a00

However this always (mostly) gives me packages in the ~25$ range.

For clarification I'm in Australia and mostly get stuff shipped over from US.

It all depends on what options you are picking, the size and weight also play a big factor in cost. USPS is going to be the cheapest most of the time if shipping from USA to Australia.

[Glenmael]

Anyone have an actual shipping provider link to what is cheapest (with/without tracking)?

For example I use the following to estimate:
http://ircalc.usps.com/Default.aspx?country=10013&m=0&dpb=0&mdt=2015%2f11%2f02+08%3a00

However this always (mostly) gives me packages in the ~25$ range.

For clarification I'm in Australia and mostly get stuff shipped over from US.

It all depends on what options you are picking, the size and weight also play a big factor in cost. USPS is going to be the cheapest most of the time if shipping from USA to Australia.

That's what I thought, how about a specific example?

If I were to ship for example:
    - 1-5 caps, I would use?
    - A full set (say GMK - caps only no holder), I would use?

[I know a full set usually sits at around 0.4 Kgs (~0.88 pounds)]

I definitely think I'm getting gibbed if paying 25$ for one cap though

[SpAmRaY]

Anyone have an actual shipping provider link to what is cheapest (with/without tracking)?

For example I use the following to estimate:
http://ircalc.usps.com/Default.aspx?country=10013&m=0&dpb=0&mdt=2015%2f11%2f02+08%3a00

However this always (mostly) gives me packages in the ~25$ range.

For clarification I'm in Australia and mostly get stuff shipped over from US.

It all depends on what options you are picking, the size and weight also play a big factor in cost. USPS is going to be the cheapest most of the time if shipping from USA to Australia.

That's what I thought, how about a specific example?

If I were to ship for example:
    - 1-5 caps, I would use?
    - A full set (say GMK - caps only no holder), I would use?

[I know a full set usually sits at around 0.4 Kgs (~0.88 pounds)]

I definitely think I'm getting gibbed if paying 25$ for one cap though

A single cap in a bubble mailer is going to cost you $6.39 not including price of bubble mailer for USPS first class.

Sending an entire set of caps I would definitely put them in a small box and if that was a USPS priority flat rate small box yes it will cost ~$25 or so however if you send it in your own box it will likely be cheaper, estimating 1lb in your own box for USPS first class to Australia is ~$17, now this does not include any insurance and assumes the shipper gives it a lower value than what you would probably pay.

[Glenmael]

Anyone have an actual shipping provider link to what is cheapest (with/without tracking)?

For example I use the following to estimate:
http://ircalc.usps.com/Default.aspx?country=10013&m=0&dpb=0&mdt=2015%2f11%2f02+08%3a00

However this always (mostly) gives me packages in the ~25$ range.

For clarification I'm in Australia and mostly get stuff shipped over from US.

It all depends on what options you are picking, the size and weight also play a big factor in cost. USPS is going to be the cheapest most of the time if shipping from USA to Australia.

That's what I thought, how about a specific example?

If I were to ship for example:
    - 1-5 caps, I would use?
    - A full set (say GMK - caps only no holder), I would use?

[I know a full set usually sits at around 0.4 Kgs (~0.88 pounds)]

I definitely think I'm getting gibbed if paying 25$ for one cap though

A single cap in a bubble mailer is going to cost you $6.39 not including price of bubble mailer for USPS first class.

Sending an entire set of caps I would definitely put them in a small box and if that was a USPS priority flat rate small box yes it will cost ~$25 or so however if you send it in your own box it will likely be cheaper, estimating 1lb in your own box for USPS first class to Australia is ~$17, now this does not include any insurance and assumes the shipper gives it a lower value than what you would probably pay.

Perfect! Thank you very much

[dthai17]

a bubble mailer in a box usually is very light and cheap

[Glenmael]

a bubble mailer in a box usually is very light and cheap

I'm seeing double @Zambumon

(https://geekhack.org/index.php?action=profile;u=52504)

 

[jaffers]

Ahhh question for CONUS people, is it possible to preorder shipping labels? I have a large number of orders that I need to send in bulk to US and then break apart and send off individually.

[SamirD]

Ahhh question for CONUS people, is it possible to preorder shipping labels? I have a large number of orders that I need to send in bulk to US and then break apart and send off individually.

You can with UPS and Fedex, not sure about USPS.

[SpAmRaY]

Ahhh question for CONUS people, is it possible to preorder shipping labels? I have a large number of orders that I need to send in bulk to US and then break apart and send off individually.

You can pay for and print labels or save as pdf's for shipping labels from USPS.com but I believe you are supposed to use them within a certain time period for them to be valid. I've made labels and emailed the pdfs to other people to ship things before.

[jaffers]

You can pay for and print labels or save as pdf's for shipping labels from USPS.com but I believe you are supposed to use them within a certain time period for them to be valid. I've made labels and emailed the pdfs to other people to ship things before.

You can with UPS and Fedex, not sure about USPS.

Thanks guys, will look into it a bit more, those pdf's sound pretty good

[MeltingTeeth]

Signature Plastics ships in a box.