
I sell a lot of vintage glass on eBay and frequently hear horror stories from people who receive broken glass items in the mail that were improperly packed. So I thought I’d share my tips on packing glass for shipping.
Preparation is the key when packing glass. You will need the following items:
A strong, sturdy box suitable for shipping across the country – the Post Office will provide Priority Mail packing boxes free of charge. You can pick up some sizes at the post office or go on their website to order the sizes you need. They come in groups of 10 or 25 when you get them online.
Strong packing tape – don’t buy the cheap stuff – you’ll hate it when it gets tangled and stuck together and it doesn’t hold up well on long distance travel.
Good quality bubble wrap – use clean, unpopped wrap. I’m using the large bubble size for this heavy bowl.
Styrofoam peanuts.

Tape the box together making sure to tape the center and both sides to keep the box strong. Remember that it may have to travel across the country – this box is going to Virginia – and it’s going to be tossed onto at least one mail truck.

Fill the bottom fourth of the box with styrofoam peanuts. This will provide a cushion for the glass.

Make sure the box you’re using is large enough for what you’re packing but not too large that the glass can shift during mailing. This 12×12 priority mail box is perfect for most pieces – the Post Office makes a smaller size for cups or salt/pepper shakers.


Cover all sides of the glass with bubble wrap – tape completely to keep the glass protected. Again, you can’t use enough tape especially when you’re shipping vintage glass. If it breaks, there’s one less vintage piece left in the world – they’re not making any more.

Place the bubble wrapped glass in the box and fill with styrofoam peanuts on all sides and the top.

Make sure the peanuts fill the box completely – when you tape it shut it should feel full and the top of the box should not sag at all.

Tape the center and both sides of the top of the box as well. Attach your shipping labels and insure the package, if possible.

Think how happy your buyer will be when their beautiful vintage piece arrives safely and can be enjoyed for years to come!