You've spent hours, days, or even weeks constructing those intricate LEGO sets; each piece carefully placed to form a masterpiece. But now, the time has come to part ways with your creations. Whether you're selling them online, gifting them, or moving to a new home, the safety of your precious LEGO sets in transit is crucial. The last thing you want is to arrive at your destination, only to find out that your painstakingly built TAJ MAHAL is now in pieces. Here's a comprehensive guide to protecting your LEGO sets and ensuring they reach their destination unscathed.
Prepare Your Set
Before you even think about packaging, start by ensuring that your set is clean and intact. Dust can infiltrate even the smallest cracks in your LEGO set and is not something a buyer or recipient will appreciate.
Step 1: Dust Off
Gently dust off your LEGO set using a brush with soft bristles. A camera cleaning kit can be quite handy in the absence of specific LEGO cleaning equipment. Make sure to clean each element thoroughly, as some dust may be cemented to the pieces due to static electricity. This will ensure you receive the highest value for your sets.
Step 2: Delicate Component Removal
Next, carefully detach any parts that stick out or are easily breakable, such as antennas and small accessories. Pack these items separately in a sealable plastic bag to prevent loss or damage. Also, ensure you include any minifigures that originally came with the set.
Packaging Your Set
Now that your set is clean and all the delicate components are safely stored, it's time to wrap it up, literally!
Step 3: Wrap with Cling Film
Use cling film or plastic wrap to provide a barrier against dust and other external elements. Start with the largest sections and work your way through the set, ensuring you cover every inch. This will also provide some stability and prevent any accidental detachment of smaller pieces during handling.
Step 4: Bubble Wrap
Wrap your cling film-covered LEGO set with bubble wrap to give it a cushion of protection. This additional layer is especially important for sets with protruding elements or complex structures that could be damaged if anything presses against them. Secure the bubble wrap with strong tape, avoiding putting any pressure on the LEGO.
Construct the Shipping Box
The strength and durability of your shipping box can make the difference between a set that arrives in pristine condition and a set that needs a major re-build.
Step 5: Box Preparation
Select a cardboard box that is slightly larger than your wrapped LEGO set to allow for the thickness of the bubble wrap. Line the bottom and sides of the box with packaging paper or additional bubble wrap, providing an extra layer of cushioning.
Step 6: Place and Protect
Carefully place your bubble-wrapped LEGO set into the prepared box. Ensure it is snug but not over-compressed to prevent damage. If you are shipping multiple sets, or sets are particularly fragile, consider boxing them separately for added security.
Step 7: Fill the Void
Fill any remaining space in the box with packing peanuts or large bubble wrap. The idea is to create a barrier so that even if the box is bent or compressed, the LEGO set remains perfectly isolated and protected.
Step 8: Seal and Label
Seal your box with super-strength tape to ensure it stays closed during transit. Be generous with the tape, it is better to overdo it rather than a box opening mid-shipment. Finally, apply your provided Pre-Paid shipping label to your package and drop it at your nearest UPS drop off location.
Bonus Tips
Document for Transparency
Before sealing your LEGO set, take clear photographs of the item from all angles. This can serve as a useful reference if there are any disputes about the set's condition post-transit.
By following these steps, you can package and ship your prebuilt LEGO set with confidence, knowing that you've done everything you can to ensure it arrives safely. Remember, protecting your beloved set is not only about the package, but also about the peace of mind of yourself and the recipient or buyer.
Now, go ahead and send off your marvelous LEGO creation into the world! Happy shipping!
