At this time of year, Parcel post services go into overdrive. Postage of course takes on a different urgency. It's really important to get it right so I offer a bit of advice on 'inclusions'.
Some countries charge more to include a letter or a card. My honesty has often let me down when admitting a parcel included a letter. After all, it would wouldn't it!You're not likely to send a parcel without some sort of written note on who it's from, greetings, love, hope you're well etc.
My own Post Office service though charges you more for this luxury! Once you know this, you can avoid heavier charges by sending only the gift – without the written addition So it may be worth sending your letter or card separately. Daft, but true. Then of course, I suppose you could ponder – when is a letter a card – and vice versa.
It's always best to check weights and postal advice through your local or Country postage services. This not only avoids problems 'at the counter' but can speed things up this time of year.
Parcel and courier services can offer advice on postage rates and delivery times and many have good tracking services. If you're sending away, do remember to post early – not always easy.
I've recently posted parcels within the UK and to Macau (Hong Kong) and Bangkok. Both of these carry customs declarations and my Mum will soon receive an odd shaped parcel via her local postman (a claw foot walking stick!). There were many curious stares as I waited in line to post that one, I can tell you!
You can't always be sure things will arrive safely but if you wrap them carefully they're more likely to survive the journey.
- Wrap awkward or delicate shapes first in bubblewrap.
- Cover in a double layer of Blick Brown Kraft Paper

- Seal all joins with Blick's Filament Tape
for extra security.
I make it a habit to cover parcels in a sheet of white copy paper and to print names and address clearly – adding a return name and post code/zip code. I've found sometimes that putting my full address often confuses the postman and I once got a return parcel delivered to me – instead of the expected recipient!
So check all your local requirements, buy your packing materials in advance and post early.
Written by Geraldine Jozefiak
Craft Expert and Demonstrator
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