Gorilla-Proof & Cheapskate Packing.

The following shipping guidelines were written by Pat Sun.  I have
added comments in italics where I feel additional words are needed.
Between the two of us, we have over a 99.5% satisfaction rate.

For sending 1-6 comics: 
----------------------- 
I always place comics in a comic bag with a backing board to provide
support and protection to the comics.

Split the pile of comics and place them together so the backing
boards are facing out.  Place this stack of comics into a plastic bag
(grocery store type is fine) and tape along both lengths so the comics
do not move around with respect to each other.  Instead of having a
set of lose comics, you now have a solid bundle which will survive the
trip more safely.

I recommend using stiff pieces of corrugated box cardboard, make sure
you use pieces that don't have bends or folds in them, cut them so
that there's around 3/4" margin on all sides when you put the comics
on the board.  Position the comic bundle in the middle of one of the
boards.  Tape the comic bundle down on one of the boards so the comics
don't shake around in transit.  Sandwich the bundle with the other
piece of cardboard.  Tape the sandwich up.  Make sure the comic bundle
is sufficiently taped down so the comics don't slide around.

Now try to test the sturdiness of the sandwich by applying some
bending pressure (not so much as to cause damage) to the sandwich.  If
it's sturdy enough, then you're in good shape.  If not, then you might
want to use one or two more pieces of cardboard to add some more
strength to the package.

Next, I use left over cardboard to make corner protectors for the
sandwich.  Just cut up strips of cardboard that's the width of the
sandwich.  Fold the strips and tape the "L" strips unto the corners of
the sandwich.  You might just want to surround all sides of the
sandwich so they comics will be protected even more.  This doesn't
take too long and is pretty effective.

As an alternative, you may use strips of bubble wrap.  Or you could
have placed the bundle of comics in bubble wrap before applying the
sandwich of cardboard.
 
Now you have a nicely packed package.  Use an appropriately sized
envelope (bubble envelopes are a plus, but more expensive) and slip
the comic bundle. Address the envelope, write "DO NOT BEND!"  "DO NOT
FOLD" "KEEP FLAT" on the front of the envelope.  Writing on the back
can't hurt either.  Try to put tape on the address so rain won't
affect the ink.  That's it!

I prefer using boxes over envelopes.  Boxes are usually free if I
claim them from the local comic shop before they are thrown away.
Plus, it is easier to ship the comics by book rate if you use a box.


For sending more than 6 comics: 
-------------------------------  
I recommend using a suitaby sized cardboard box.  Ask your comic store
for the boxes that comics are shipped to the store with.  Or you might
luck up and find some at the local supermarkets.

Again bundle the comics in a bag snugly.  Place the bundle in the
middle of the box (you might want to reinforce the bottom of the box
with a piece of cardboard).

Insulate the bundle on all sides after placing the bundle into the
box.  Use wadded up newspaper or styofoam peanuts for padding all
sides of the comic bundle.  Close up the box when you think you have
put in enough padding into the box.  Shake it around.  If there is no
appreciable movement of the comic bundle, you have done well.  If the
comic bundle still shakes around, then add more padding and repeat the
shake test.

I always prefer to use newspaper.  Those annoying pieces of styrofoam
always lay around on my carpet for days.  Plus, newspaper is usually
more plentiful.  I always place a layer or two of newspaper on the
bottom and top of the box.  Also, remember to stuff newspaper into
those corners, not just those sides.  The newspaper absorbs any shock
and keeps the bundle away from the edges and corners of the box, the
places mostly likely to be damaged in transit.

Tape up the box.  Remember to reinforce the bottom of the box as well.
Use packing tape (clear or opaque is fine) on the box.  Address the
box, make sure the address can't be torn off by taping it down
entirely if you have to.  That should be a well-packed box!

Do not use masking tape!


Selling lots of comics online? 
------------------------------  
For those thinking about doing lots of comic mail-order, I suggest 
ordering these nifty comic-mailers from Bags Unlimited (1-800-767-bags). 
They are cardboard boxes which will allow to you fit about 8 bagged
and boarded comics, or about 12 comics without boards.  You'll have 
to pad the sides so the comics don't slide from side to side.  You can 
order 100 boxes (you'll have to fold them since they come to you 
flat with pre-folds in them) for $39.20 delivered (if you live on 
the east of the Mississippi, and 10% more if you live on the west of 
the Mississippi).  The product code is MCOM14.  I've saved countless 
hours of cutting up cardboard by using these boxes and highly 
recommend them.  It may cut a little into your profits, but the 
time savings and peace of mind are well worth it.  
  
Hope that helps.  
 
------

Final Words

Remember that comics are collectibles.  They have value.
Treat the comics with care.  It is the shipper's responsiblity
to do a good job of packaging.  There is no 100% safeguard.
If the comics are very valuable, then insurance is always
a back-up.  However, don't place all of your confidence in
insuring the package.  The comic could still get damaged.
The carrier may compensate the value of the comic, but
the comic is forever damaged.

	cheers, alan