Umbrellas make versatile gifts as they are very useful during rainy or sunny days. They come in variety of sizes, styles and designs that are available at a variety of price points, ranging from a few dollars at a discount shop to a few hundred dollars for a designer model.
Umbrellas are typically made from lightweight, waterproof materials and are collapsible or foldable for portability. Depending on the type, some umbrellas can be folded into a long stick while others can be folded into a much shorter and smaller configuration that can fit into pockets, bags and purses.
When shipping, umbrellas must be properly packed to protect the fragile canopy and frame from damage. Here are some tips on how to properly packed and ship an umbrella.
Make sure that the umbrella is clean and dry before packing. Neatly fold the umbrella and secure with the accompanying clasp. Place the folded umbrella in its case or pouch and wrap in bubble wrap. Use tape to secure the wrap in place.
For smaller umbrellas, you can either box them or place inside a tube mailer. Use bubble wrap to keep the item from moving or shaking inside the box or tube. Close the package and seal with tape.
For long umbrellas, pack them between two sturdy strips of wood or double walled cardboard slightly larger in length and width of the object. Hook-handled umbrellas are best packed this way to prevent the curved protrusion from getting caught in postal equipment. Wrap securely with brown paper and packaging tape.
Address and label the package and bring to your local post office or shipping company.