When we first started shipping out orders we had a lot of problems. Boxes were getting smashed and our products were arriving broken or in pieces. We replaced or refunded these orders, of course, but this was costing us a lot of money. I spent hours online researching how to package heavy and bulky items. I bought every different kind of packing supply under the sun to try out. 

I would like to say that we are at a point now where we rarely have issues with our packaging. For the most part, everything arrives in perfect condition. We still get notifications of packages being damaged here and there and we tackle that as needed. It only took me a year to figure out the UPS claims process but that story is for another time. 

We invest a lot into our packaging materials. The one thing I learned when it comes to packaging for products like ours is high quality is a must. We purchase most of our packaging materials from companies like Uline or Grainger. 

Our larger shipping boxes are 200# single-wall boxes from Uline. This means that they are made with heavier paper and can withstand 200 pounds of pressure per square inch. Our smaller boxes are 32 ECT meaning they can withstand 32 pounds of pressure per square inch. When I pack orders I always follow the gross weight limit per box. 

Another fun fact about the boxes we use is that they are made in the USA. 

To fill the gaps in our boxes we use a mixture of foam edge protectors, recycled newsprint rolls, air pillows and biodegradable packing peanuts. 

The packing peanuts are soft and squishy like normal packing peanuts but they decompose in water. They are FDA compliant and leave no toxic waste. They are static-free organic starch.

Through trial and error I have learned the best way to pack our items. When possible I use (or reuse) materials that are recycled, recyclable or biodegradable. 

Shopify does a lot to help us offset the carbon emissions from our shipping:

1. Any Shopify promotions - These promotions, such as carbon-neutral shipping during BFCM, take priority over all other services. The cost is covered by Shopify.
2. Shop Pay - Orders that are paid for using Shop Pay help contribute toward carbon offset initiatives through WeForest. The cost is covered by Shopify.
3. Shopify Shipping - Shipping labels that are purchased through Shopify Shipping and have a shipping origin in the United States are carbon neutral. The cost is covered by Shopify.

We want you to receive your package in perfect condition but also do our part to lessen our impact on the environment. We welcome your feedback and ideas!