Reusing Corrugated Boxes for Shipping

Is it OK to use a box that was already used in the shipping process? The answer is: sometimes!

Many times, when we receive something that we want to send back, we think nothing of using the original box for the return shipment. This is usually acceptable, but there are things you want to look out for when reusing a corrugated box.

First, make sure it is a shipping box. A box that is rated for shipping contains a round seal called the certification. The seal indicates the testing that the box went through to become certified for shipping.

Second, make sure that the box has no holes in it. Cover any holes with carton sealing tape. Never use masking tape, duct tape, or cellophane (e.g., Scotch) tape for shipping. These tapes do not hold during the shipping process.

Third, make sure there are no "hazardous" markings. These are usually triangular symbols that indicate the presence of hazardous contents that must be specially handled. In the case of Avon products, most of the boxes that are shipped to distributors contain the ORM-D label on the top flap of the box. According to DOT regulations, the ORM-D label MUST be removed before shipping back your Avon returns, or the common carrier will not be able to accept the package. The only carriers permitted to handle hazardous materials containers are those trained in handling them, such as the UPS or FedEx customer counters (i.e., the local "hub" facilities). If you take an ORM-D labeled box to a The UPS Store location, you will have to cut out the ORM-D label yourself and assure the store personnel that there is nothing hazardous being shipped in the container.

Lastly, cover up any old labels that are on the box. Barcodes are used by common carriers' sorting systems, so extraneous barcodes must be covered up. Note that they should NOT be removed. Tearing off old labels ruins the integrity of the corrugate. NEVER peel off old labels; simply cover them with new blank labels or use a marker to black out old barcodes.

Fred Savio is a multiple center owner of The UPS Store franchise in southern New Jersey. You can email him at fredsinfo2006@yahoo.com.