http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47NIzvvJoPk

1. Estimate the volume of the things you are going to send to know how many empty boxes you will need.

2. Acquire an empty box from a Filipino store. Regular size is approx. 28x18x17 (5 cubic ft.)

3. Prepare your things. Secure liquid containers (shampoo, lotion, etc.) by putting a tape around the cap. It is always advisable to place these kinds of items inside a plastic bag. Pack breakable items carefully. Use bubble wrap or soft clothings to secure these items.  

4. Secure the carton box and do not forget to tape the bottom flap.  Avoid using duct tape because this peels off in hot weather and gets torn easily.

5. Put a lining on the box by using a big garbage bag. This lining will protect your balikbayan box inside the container in case the liquid contents of other boxes spill.

6. Put all soft items first. Blankets, clothes, towels, etc. These will serve as cushion to your other things.

7. Place more delicate items in the middle but not beside each other. Clothes or bubble wraps are suggested to be in between these items.

8. You can put a list of the items inside the box with their corresponding recipients of items to avoid confusion of recipients. It also serves as an inventory list that the recipient can check if everything is in there.

9. Tie the garbage bag and put a bubble wrap on top.

10. Close the box and secure the opening with tape. AEROSEND shall strap it for free.

11. Write the name, address, and phone number of the recipient on the sides of the box. To those sending boxes to the provinces, especially to those without a house number on the address, feel free to attach a map so it would be easier for the delivery guys to find the place.

12. Call AEROSEND at 1-630-621-3372 or your local AEROSEND BRANCH and decide if you want to drop off your box for a lesser rate or have AEROSEND come and pick up your box.

13. Complete all the necessary documents including the Shipper's Export Declaration and packing list forms. Get your signed copy of the invoice. This will be your proof that you sent your balikbayan box through AEROSEND.

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SENDING CHOCOLATES

The problem in sending chocolates through the balikbayan box is the temperature. The hot weather in the Philippines will melt the chocolates in no time. This melting process happens when the container holding the boxes is opened in the Philippines.

Tips to make sure that your chocolates will be received in good, presentable form:

1. Put each chocolate pack in a box. This will prevent your chocolates from getting deformed especially when they melt. This is also a protection from other melting chocolates.

2. Put all the chocolate boxes in a strong carton box.

3. To protect the chocolates from the other contents (toiletries, etc.), wrap the chocolate box using a cling film or plastic wrap.

4. Put the chocolate box in the middle of balikbayan box and put all else (clothes, toiletries, shoes, etc.) on the sides. This will protect your chocolates from other balikbayan boxes during handling and transit.