Shipping a vinyl record

Vinyl Records are one of our favorite audio mediums - they're interesting to look at, delightfully imperfect, and a critical component in the evolution of recorded sound. They are also quite easy to break or scratch, so extra care should be taken when sending a vinyl record through the mail.

• Choose the right shipping container. A stiff-walled EZ fold mailer is the best choice for shipping vinyl records - the box is rigid and sized appropriately for the medium.
• Remove the record from its sleeve. This will help you get a tighter fit, so the record will be less likely to slide around during shipment, damaging itself or its sleeve. Place the record on top of its cardboard cover, and the sleeve on top of the record. In the event that the record does not have a cardboard cover, cut a piece of corrugated cardboard to size and place the record against the cardboard.
• Create a sort of 'record sandwich' with an additional piece of cardboard. Sandwiching your record between its cardboard sleeve and a second piece of cardboard will ensure that it remains rigid inside the box during shipping.
• Use an appropriately sized cushioning material. LP vinyl records are 12 inches by 12 inches - cut your bubble wrap or foam sheets to size to ensure the entire LP is protected. Add cushioning material to either side and tape it together securely.
• Put the record in the box and secure it with packaging tape. You should also aim for a snug fit in the box, so add additional cushioning material as required.

Vinyl records can be an intimidating item to ship, but if adequate preparation is taken, they can be shipped more or less worry-free. These steps will help ensure the best possible chance of your vinyl record arriving at its destination in the same condition as it was when sent.