Gathered Manor's Guide to Shipping Breakables

I am on a mission to save the antiques (from breaking in transit).

A few months back, I was thrilled when I finally came across the perfect antique Rose Medallion platter. However, that thrill quickly turned into heartbreak when I opened the package and heard the unmistakable jingle of broken porcelain. The beautiful platter I’d been hunting for was now in pieces, all because of poor packaging.

After sharing my experience on my Instagram story, I was shocked by some of the experiences y'all shared with me! From fragile items sent with little to no packaging, to sellers refusing accountability and issues getting refunds on orders that arrived broken. 

Sooo let’s talk shipping breakables! Here are my top tips to ensure those delicate treasures arrive intact:

1. Packing Peanuts

These are a MUST. Packing peanuts are great for absorbing shock during shipping, which is key for fragile items. Be generous with them—enough to prevent any movement inside the box.

2. Bubble Wrap

I am a more is more kind of girl when it comes to my bubble wrap. I like to use two different kinds of bubble wrap - 1/4" for the initial layers and 1/2" for the top layer. 

3. Double Box 

We all need a little extra support sometimes. For particularly fragile items, double boxing is essential. I often reuse old boxes by cutting them into pieces and using them as additional layers inside the shipping box. This creates another barrier to protect the item from impact.

4. Don't Choose the Cheapest Shipping Option

I’m all for saving money, but when it comes to shipping fragile items, spending a little extra is worth it. Opt for UPS Ground or USPS Priority Mail over cheaper alternatives like UPS Ground Saver. These cheaper options may extend the travel time, which increases the likelihood of damage. Quicker, more reliable shipping methods can make all the difference.

5. Use New Packaging Materials 

I’ve seen so much debate about this, but let’s settle it—quality packaging materials matter. While I’m all for recycling packing materials whenever possible, sometimes a box just needs to be retired. Using sturdy, undamaged boxes is key to protecting fragile items in transit. If a box has seen better days, don’t toss it just yet—recycle it by cutting it up and using the pieces to create extra layers of protection inside your package. This way, you give that worn box a second life while ensuring your treasures are safe.

6. Be Accountable 

Even with the very best packaging efforts, sometimes it feels like UPS and USPS just throw your box out the side of an airplane (literally). Unfortunately, despite careful attention to packing, accidents can happen. And when they do, how you handle them says everything about you and your business. If an item arrives damaged, my policy has always been to immediately issue a refund upon receiving proof of damage. It’s important to me that my customers feel taken care of and confident when purchasing from Gathered Manor. While I can’t control what happens during transit, I can control how I respond—and ensuring happy customers is my top priority!