Shipping A Fur Coat: A Step-By-Step Guide

Fur coats are delicate items that require careful handling when being shipped. Whether the fur is real or faux, it is important to take the necessary steps to ensure that the coat arrives at its destination safely and without damage. From choosing the right packaging to folding the coat correctly and filling the sleeves to retain its shape, there are several key considerations to keep in mind when shipping a fur coat.

Choosing the right box

Firstly, the type of box you choose will depend on the type of fur coat you are shipping. For accessories, a sturdy cardboard box is sufficient. If you are shipping a longer coat, such as a lynx fur coat, a wardrobe box is ideal. Wardrobe boxes are equipped with a hanging bar, allowing you to hang the coat inside the box. This reduces the chance of damage and wrinkles, and it also makes it easier for the recipient to remove the coat and hang it up immediately. If you opt for a wardrobe box, make sure it is made of quality cardboard. Boxes from your local supermarket may not be clean enough, and they could potentially damage the delicate fur.

If you are not using a wardrobe box and plan to fold the coat, you will need two boxes: a smaller box for the coat and a larger outer box for added protection. The smaller box should be a white gift box, large enough to accommodate the folded coat. The larger box should be a sturdy cardboard box that can fit the smaller box inside snugly. This double-boxing method will provide extra cushioning and protection during transit.

When selecting boxes, it is also important to consider the weight and dimensions of the fur coat. For heavier or larger coats, you may need to purchase a bigger box to avoid squishing or folding the coat too much. This may increase your shipping costs, so it is essential to weigh and measure the coat beforehand to determine the appropriate box size.

Finally, if you are shipping internationally, be aware that some countries have restrictions or prohibitions on shipping real fur. Check the regulations of both the origin and destination countries, as well as any carrier rules, before selecting a box and booking your shipping service.

Preparing the coat

Firstly, lay the coat on a flat surface and turn it inside out. It is important that the coat is clean and dry before shipping. If it has been exposed to moisture, hang it in a well-ventilated room to dry completely, avoiding the use of metal hangers or radiators.

Next, fill the sleeves with plain, white paper to help maintain the coat's shape during transit and to avoid wrinkles. Crumpled paper can also be used to fill the sleeves. Then, gently turn the shoulders inside out, being careful not to touch the sleeves. If the coat is full-length, fold it in half lengthwise.

Now, you can begin to fold the coat. Do this carefully, without pressing too hard on the fur. You can add layers of tissue paper between the folds for added protection, especially if there are buttons or zippers that may catch on the fur.

Once folded, you can wrap the coat in soft padding material or packing paper. Alternatively, you can place the coat in a cotton bag or a plastic dry-cleaning bag to protect it from moisture.

Finally, place the coat inside a sturdy cardboard box, ensuring that you do not add any weight on top of it. Fill any remaining space in the box with soft materials, such as bubble wrap, clothing, or paper.

Packing the coat

Packing a fur coat requires careful attention to ensure the delicate item is not damaged in transit. Here is a step-by-step guide to packing your fur coat:

Firstly, ensure your coat is clean and dry. Fur should be cleaned professionally at the beginning and end of each season, and it is important to avoid any moisture when storing or transporting fur. Hang the coat in a well-ventilated room to dry if it has been exposed to moisture, and avoid metal hangers or radiators.

Next, gather your packing materials. You will need a sturdy cardboard box, preferably new and specifically designed for shipping, as well as soft padding material, such as acid-free tissue paper, and plain, white paper. You will also need scissors, tape, and a marker for labelling.

Now, prepare your box by lining it with 2-3 layers of tissue paper. You can use a white gift box inside your cardboard box for added protection. If your coat has buttons or zippers, consider placing a layer of tissue paper over these to prevent them from catching on the fur.

When your box is ready, lay your coat flat on a surface and turn it inside out. Gently fill the sleeves with crumpled paper to help maintain the coat's shape during transit. You can also use soft padding material or packing paper to wrap the coat before placing it in the box.

Carefully fold the coat, being mindful not to press too hard on the fur. If your coat is full-length, fold it in half lengthwise. You can add layers of tissue paper between the folds for extra protection. Place the coat inside the box, ensuring you do not add any weight on top of it.

Finally, fill any remaining space in the box with soft materials, such as bubble wrap, soft clothing, or more paper. Close the box and seal it securely with packing tape. Label the package clearly, and your coat is now ready for shipping.

For added peace of mind, you may wish to consider hiring a professional packing service, especially if your coat is particularly valuable.

Sealing the box

Prepare the Box:

• Choose a sturdy cardboard box that is slightly larger than your fur coat. Ensure it is made of high-quality material and is clean and dry.
• Line the bottom and sides of the box with soft padding material or plain, white paper. Avoid using newspaper as the ink can cause discolouration.

Place the Coat in the Box:

• Fold your coat neatly, making sure it fits within the box. Avoid pressing too hard on the fur.
• You can place layers of tissue paper between the folds of the coat for added protection. This is especially useful if there are buttons or zippers that could get caught in the fur.
• If using a larger box, you may want to place the folded coat in a smaller, white gift box first, and then place that box inside the larger one. This provides an extra layer of protection.

Seal the Box:

• Once the coat is securely placed in the box, it's time to seal it. Use clear packing tape to gently but firmly secure the top and all seams of the box.
• Make sure to use enough tape to reinforce the box and prevent it from opening during transit.
• After sealing, give the box a gentle shake. If you hear the coat moving around, open the box and add more padding to secure the coat in place.

Label and Ship:

• Label the package clearly and accurately. Include any necessary information, such as the recipient's address and your return address.
• Take the package to your chosen shipping carrier, whether it's a postal service or a private courier company.
• Declare the value and specify the content as fragile to ensure careful handling.

Remember, sealing the box properly is crucial to protect your valuable fur coat during shipping. Take your time and use the appropriate materials to ensure a safe journey for your coat.

Shipping

Packing the Fur Coat

Firstly, gather your packing materials. You will need two cardboard boxes, one larger than the other, with the smaller box being big enough to accommodate your fur coat. The larger, outer box provides added protection during shipping. Ensure the cardboard boxes are sturdy and of good quality. You will also need tissue paper, packing tape, and newspaper or other soft padding material.

Next, lay out several sheets of tissue paper flat. Take your fur coat and fold it neatly, being careful not to press too hard on the fur. You can place tissue paper between the folds of the coat to protect it further, especially if there are buttons or zippers that could get caught in the fur. Place another layer of tissue paper on top of the folded coat.

Boxing the Fur Coat

Place the folded coat inside the smaller cardboard box. Seal the box with clear packing tape. Then, take your larger cardboard box and reinforce it by placing the smaller box inside. Use newspaper or other soft padding material to secure the smaller box inside the larger one. This extra cushioning will help protect the coat in case the outer box is damaged during shipping.

Seal the larger cardboard box with packing tape and label the package. Take the boxed fur coat to your local shipping office or courier service. You may want to enquire about their handling of delicate items and their shipping policies for fragile items.

Additional Considerations

Before shipping your fur coat, ensure it is clean. Fur should be cleaned and dried before transportation. Hang the coat in a well-ventilated room to let it dry completely if it has been exposed to moisture. Avoid using metal hangers or placing the coat near radiators.

It is also important to check the regulations and restrictions of the shipping company and the destination country, especially if you are shipping internationally. Some countries prohibit the shipping of real fur, and postal/courier companies may have restrictions on shipping furs.

Frequently asked questions