Core rules
Ship with a carrier label purchased via Reflexed, within 3 business days, to the exact address on the order. These are required for eligibility under Reflexed Seller Protection. For camera bodies or lenses priced ≥ $750, use signature confirmation and keep packing photos.
Carriers charge by the higher of actual weight or dimensional (DIM) weight. As a rule of thumb, UPS/FedEx use a 139 divisor; USPS commonly uses 166 when volume > 1 cubic foot. Smaller, denser boxes reduce cost.
Packing standards that prevent damage
Follow industry packaging guidance; it’s what carriers expect when they assess damage claims.
Box & cushioning
Use a new, rigid corrugated box (no crushed corners) with all old labels removed.
Wrap items separately; immobilize contents so nothing can collide.
Maintain ~2″ clearance on all sides with dense padding (bubble, foam).
Consider double-boxing for heavy or fragile pieces.
Evidence to keep
Photos of: the item wrapped and cushioned, the boxed interior before sealing, and the sealed box with label. These are required if you ever need support under Seller Protection.
Tape & label
H-pattern tape on all openings; label flat and scannable—don’t cover barcodes with glossy tape.
Camera-specific checklists
Camera bodies (digital or film)
Body cap on; LCD protected with a thin foam/microfiber.
Two layers of large-cell bubble; center in box with 2″ clearance.
Batteries installed in body or packed in protective sleeves (never ship swollen/damaged cells).
Include charger, strap, and small parts bagged so they can’t roam.
Lenses
Front + rear caps on (hood installed face-down is a bonus bumper).
Protect filter threads; glass should never touch box walls.
Add close-fit wrap around the barrel to prevent shifting.
Kits & bundles
Wrap each item individually and separate with dividers; double-box for weight >6 lb or value ≥ $750.
Accessories
Cap/cover exposed pins/contacts; coil and secure cables; bag small accessories.
Lithium batteries (high-level)
Ship only undamaged cells and packs.
Follow current IATA lithium battery guidance and your carrier’s rules (marking, limits, documentation). For USPS air transport, Pub 52 sets what is mailable and how; staff will ask if a parcel contains lithium batteries. When in doubt, use ground services and original protective covers.
Tracking, signature, insurance
Upload valid tracking and keep the drop-off receipt.
Use signature confirmation on bodies/lenses at $750+; add insurance to cover full sale value.
International shipping notes
Customs, duties, and import VAT are usually buyer-paid unless your checkout explicitly shows them prepaid.
Expect longer transit and occasional inspections; pack for repeated handling and retain all evidence (photos, tracking milestones).
Some battery configurations and hazmat items are restricted or prohibited cross-border—verify before you ship.
Quick pre-ship checklist
Correct recipient address.
Box sized for minimal DIM weight; dense internal padding; items immobilized.
Photos taken: packed item, interior before seal, sealed box with label.
Tracking uploaded; signature set for $750+ bodies/lenses.