Over the decades LEGO toys have become hot property. Guess who also knows about LEGO’s popularity? Thieves! Keep your outer shipping box or envelope neutral and without reference to LEGO. Markings related to LEGO can attract the attention of thieves during shipping.
Here are three pitfalls to avoid when shipping your LEGO orders:
Avoid shipping orders in boxes that say “LEGO”. Deliveries are sometimes left at a buyer’s doorstep. The LEGO logo can attract the attention of thieves.
1. Reusing a box that says LEGO
Although reusing packaging material can save money, avoid reusing boxes that say “LEGO” on the outside. Packaging that says LEGO could either take the form of a box from a case of LEGO sets or the actual box from a LEGO set. The former is made out of sturdy corrugated cardboard, but will draw unwanted attention. The latter is made out thin, flimsy cardboard, ill-equipped for the riggers of shipping (i.e. the notoriously abrasive USPS sorting machine). Using a LEGO set box also makes your package look tacky and cheap.
2. Using a shipping label that says LEGO
Some sellers advertise their online stores on the return address of their shipments. The label features their username, an image of a brick, and/or a slogan referencing LEGO. Branding is OK–in fact, branding is an excellent idea–just keep anything LEGO related on the INSIDE of the package.
3. Writing “LEGO” on a customs form
Writing “LEGO” on the customs form of your international and APO/FPO orders is not necessary. I’m NOT suggesting that you lie on the customs form. Falsifying a customs form is illegal (follow the law, kids!). I AM suggesting that you DESCRIBE the pieces in the order rather than using the brand name. For example, I usually write “toy construction parts” in the description box on the customs form. You could write something similar, if you’d like. Pack a detailed invoice of the order on the inside of the box or envelope, in case the shipment is inspected by customs officials.
* * *
If you make a purchase from LEGO Shop at Home, the official online LEGO store, look closely at the shipping box. Did you spot the LEGO logo or name? Probably not, since it doesn’t exist! You read right–you won’t find the LEGO name or logo ANYWHERE on the outside of a shipping box from LEGO Shop at Home. The return address on the box doesn’t even say LEGO.
If The LEGO Group itself doesn’t mark their shipping boxes with ‘LEGO’, then you probably don’t need to either. Don’t make yourself a target. Whenever possible, avoid mention of LEGO on the outside of your LEGO shipments.