How to Pack CGM Supplies for Shipping (So You Get Full Price)
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Quick answer: Use a sturdy cardboard box a little bigger than your stack, fill every gap with padding so nothing slides, seal it with packing tape, and put the label flat on top. Never tape or write on the product boxes themselves. We only buy mint-condition boxes, so a box damaged on the trip can't be accepted at inspection, and good packing prevents almost all of it.
What you need
- A corrugated cardboard box. A reused Amazon or pharmacy shipping box is perfect. Avoid thin cereal-box cardboard and soft padded envelopes for anything over one or two boxes.
- Padding. Bubble wrap, packing paper, crumpled newspaper, or plastic grocery bags all work.
- Packing tape. Clear or brown shipping tape. Not masking tape or office tape, which peel off in the mail.
- Your prepaid label or QR code from your quote email.
Step by step
- Check each box first. Make sure every box is sealed and matches what's on your quote, including the expiration dates. If you are sending Dexcom, confirm the REF codes (see retail vs DME boxes).
- Take a quick photo. Lay the boxes out and snap a picture. It takes five seconds and gives you a record of exactly what you sent and what shape it was in.
- Stack the boxes snugly. Stand them upright or lay them flat in a tight block. A block of boxes protects itself much better than boxes rattling around loose.
- Pad the bottom, sides, and top. Put at least an inch of padding under the stack, fill every side gap, and add a layer on top before closing.
- Do the shake test. Close the flaps and give it a firm shake. If you hear or feel anything move, add more padding. Movement is what crushes corners.
- Seal every seam. Tape across the top and bottom center seams and along the edges.
- Cover old labels. If you are reusing a shipping box, cover or cross out any old labels and barcodes so the scanner only reads yours.
- Attach your label flat on the largest side. Tape around all four edges without covering the barcode. If you chose the QR code option, just bring the box and the code to the Post Office counter; they will print the label there. (How the QR code works.)
Three mistakes that cost sellers money
| Mistake | Why it costs you |
|---|---|
| Taping the product boxes together | Pulling tape off peels the printed surface or leaves adhesive residue, and those boxes can't be accepted. |
| Writing on the product boxes | Marker on the box itself counts as writing, and boxes with writing can't be accepted. |
| A box that is too big with no padding | The stack slides and slams into the walls on every sort belt. That is how corners get crushed. |
Mind the heat
CGM makers list maximum storage temperatures in the low-to-mid 80s °F. A car in the sun or a metal mailbox in the afternoon gets far hotter than that. Pack it and drop it off the same trip. Don't leave the package in your car all day or clipped to your mailbox for pickup.
Where to drop it off
Any USPS Post Office, or a blue USPS collection box if the package fits through the slot. The label has tracking built in, so you can follow it all the way to us. Most packages arrive in 2 to 3 business days, and you're paid the same business day your boxes are verified. See the full payment timeline.
Common questions
Can I ship CGM supplies in a padded envelope?
For one or two boxes, a well-filled padded mailer can work. For anything more, use a cardboard box. Envelopes bend, and bent boxes can't be accepted.
Should I tape the sensor boxes together so they don't move?
No. Removing tape can tear the packaging or leave adhesive residue. Use padding around the stack instead.
Can I send different brands in the same box?
Yes. Dexcom, Omnipod, and Libre boxes can all ship together on one label, as long as they're all on your quote.
Do I need to include anything inside the box?
No paperwork is required. Your label ties the package to your quote.
Haven't gotten your label yet? Get your exact payout and a free prepaid label on our payout page. Questions? Text (910) 807-3468.
