LPs: They're Back, and Here’s What You Need To Know To Ship Them Safely

For the first time in recent history, LPs are outselling CDs, making it an exciting time to be in the music business. Whether you're a vinyl enthusiast who is always searching for the latest record to add to your collection, or you're a seller who is working hard to connect with the people who are searching for the perfect vinyl album, it's key that you understand the best ways to ship LPs.

Vinyl albums are delicate, especially since many of them are half a century old (or more). Even new LPs can be subject to wear and tear during the mailing process. The good news: we've got you covered. Our LP record mailers can keep your albums safe in transit, helping them to arrive intact to their destination.

Now, let's take a look at the steps you'll want to follow to ensure that your LP is mailed safely:

First, remove the album from its jacket and inspect the condition of the plastic sleeve. If it's wrinkled, torn, or otherwise damaged, you'll want to replace it with a new plastic sleeve. If the plastic sleeve the album is currently packaged in is the original, be sure to include it before you mail it off to the recipient. After you have the LP properly packaged in the new sleeve, return the LP to its cardboard covering.

Next, be sure that you have the lyrics sheet and any other papers that came with the original LP. If these are in poor condition, be sure to alert the recipient before you send off the package. You may want to place the papers into a plastic protective sheet so that they make it as safely as possible to their final destination.

After you have the LP and any accompanying documents protected, it's time to package the album into one of our cardboard mailers. You can package up to four LPs in one mailer. In between each LP, you'll want to add one of our filler pads to be sure each individual record is protected. If you're only sending one record, be sure to add a filler pad on either side. While you and your recipient know that there's something precious inside your package, it can be hard to determine exactly how your LP will be treated along its journey. It's key to take every precaution to ensure that your vinyl record is well protected as it makes its way through the mail.

Finally, before you head to the post office, be sure to write "FRAGILE - VINYL RECORD - DO NOT BEND." The last thing you and your recipient want is to have the record cracked or snapped during the shipping process. If you're a seller, be sure to follow up with the recipient after they receive your package to ensure that their vinyl album made it to them perfectly intact.