Amazingly, this order from Germany arrived complete despite multiple holes to the outer envelope.
It’s easy to blame the United States Postal Service for missing packages, but sometimes a lost package is going to be your fault. I know it’s not easy to hear, but it’s true. Here are four reasons within your control that your USPS packages may be getting “lost” in the mail.
1. Bad Printer Ink
If you’re using an inkjet printer, make sure your ink is waterproof. Some off brand replacement ink will run when it’s exposed to water. That means your buyers address could become illegible. No bueno. If your buyer’s address become illegible, then your package may not arrive to it’s destination.
2. Bad boxes or envelopes
Thin cardboard boxes and cheap bubble mailers can get dented and ripped up during routine USPS sorting. As a buyer, I’ve received beaten up boxes and envelopes with more holes than Swiss cheese. Buyers, tell the seller about the damaged box or envelope even if your order arrives complete. Telling the seller, or even sending them a photo, may help them assess whether they need to choose better packing material.
3. Adhesive failure
Self sealing bubble mail may be handy, but can you trust the adhesive to stay closed during shipping? Consider taping over the seal to reinforce the closure.
4. Overstuffed boxes or envelopes
It may be tempting to overfill envelopes or boxes, especially USPS Flat Rate envelopes and boxes, but overfilling packages is dangerous. Boxes lose structural integrity when they are bulging, increasing the likelihood that the package will get damaged or lost altogether.