Every month I send cookies out for Icing Smiles Cookie Club.  I have learned a lot of the years on how to package cookies with little to no breakage.

Whether you have a cookie business, or enjoy sending home-baked treats to friends and family, learning how to package cookies properly for shipping is a must!

Many states have laws that make it legal to ship cookies, home-baked goods, and other food items. I've put together a comprehensive step-by-step tutorial on how to prepare your precious parcels. From ensuring your cookies stay fresh to guaranteeing they reach their destination intact, this guide is packed with proven tips and tricks. This tutorial will make packaging and shipping cookies a breeze, enabling your beautifully decorated cookies to deliver joy, no matter the distance. Let's dive in!

Materials Needed:

• Cello bags (4x6" suggested for 3-1/4" cookies)
• Heat Sealer
• Labels (Customizable from UPrinting or similar)
• Gift boxes (8x8x5" recommended)
• Cardboard for the bottom of the gift box (Consider covering it in wrapping paper for a nicer touch)
• Tissue paper
• Bubble wrap
• Shipping box (Obtained from ULINE or a similar supplier)
• Newsprint or other box filler for padding
• Packing tape
• Fragile stickers
  
  

Step-by-Step Packing Guide:

Step 1: Seal the Cookies

Seal each cookie in a cello bag using the heat sealer. This step is crucial for maintaining freshness and adding an initial layer of protection.

Step 2: Apply Labels

Stick labels on the back of the sealed bags. This can include branding, ingredients, or a personal message.

Step 3: Wrap the Cookies

Take two cookies and wrap them together in a sheet of tissue paper, ensuring that they do not touch each other. This helps prevent them from moving and potentially breaking.

Step 4: Prepare the Gift Box

Assemble your gift box and place a cardboard piece at the bottom for added support.

Step 5: Initial Layering

Lay a piece of bubble wrap in the bottom of the box, followed by a layer of tissue paper. This provides a cushion for the cookies.

Step 6: Layer the Cookies

Carefully layer the wrapped cookies into the box. Place bubble wrap and tissue paper between each layer of cookies, recommending 4 cookies per layer up to 16 cookies in an 8x8x5" box.

Step 7: Final Padding

Once all the cookies are in, add a final piece of bubble wrap on top before closing the lid firmly.

Step 8: Prepare the Shipping Box

Place newsprint or box filler in the bottom of your shipping box for cushioning.

Step 9: Box within a Box

Put the gift box(es) into the shipping box. Fill all void spaces with newsprint or other padding to ensure the gift box does not move within the shipping box.

Step 10: Seal and Label

Close your shipping box and secure it well with packing tape. Apply "Fragile" stickers to each side of the box to alert handlers of the delicate contents.

Tips for Shipping:

Choosing Cookies: Opt for hardier cookie types that can withstand a bit of pressure.

Double Boxing: Always use a box within a box method for that extra layer of protection.

Generous Padding: Stuff extra padding around and between cookies. The less movement inside the box, the better.

Shipping Service: Consider using USPS Priority Mail for a balance of speed and cost. Quick delivery times reduce the risk of damages.

Additional Tips:

Freshness: The key to sending fresh cookies is to seal them well right after they have cooled completely.

Communication: Inform your recipient when the package is on its way so they can retrieve it promptly upon arrival.

Tracking: Use a shipping method that includes tracking to keep an eye on your package’s journey.

By following these detailed steps and tips, you'll ensure your carefully decorated cookies arrive in pristine condition, ready to delight your friends, family, or customers.