A customer wants to ship a fragile item and asks about the best packaging and mailing option for protection. What guidance should you provide?

PACKAGING GUIDANCE and SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS are core USPS customer service competencies. The goal is to help the customer achieve their actual goal — getting the item delivered intact. PACKAGING GUIDANCE for fragile items: (1) OUTER BOX: use a sturdy corrugated box in good condition (not recycled boxes with damage); the box should be sized to allow at least 2 inches of cushioning on all sides; (2) INNER CUSHIONING: bubble wrap (multiple layers) for fragile items; foam peanuts; air pillows; crumpled kraft paper; all six sides need cushioning — top, bottom, and all four sides; (3) DOUBLE BOXING: for very fragile or valuable items, place the inner-wrapped item in a smaller box, then place that box in a larger outer box with cushioning between the two; (4) SECURE: strong packing tape (not masking tape, rubber bands, or thin tape) on all seams; (5) LABEL: 'Fragile' on multiple sides (reduces but doesn't eliminate rough handling; USPS legally does not guarantee special handling for 'Fragile' labels but it does help); SERVICE OPTIONS: PRIORITY MAIL: 1-3 day delivery; includes $100 built-in insurance; first class of damage claims if damage occurs; PRIORITY MAIL EXPRESS: overnight to 2-day; includes $100 insurance; First Class Package or Parcel Select have lower included insurance; ADDITIONAL INSURANCE: available for purchase at retail for items worth more than included coverage. CUSTOMER SERVICE PRINCIPLE: if the item is damaged despite proper packaging, file a damage claim; USPS will inspect the packaging when processing claims — proper packaging is required for a successful claim.