How To Ship Film

Basic packing steps

1.     Place film and disposable cameras in a small plastic bag

a.     Put loose rolls and disposable cameras together in a sealed zip‑top bag to protect from moisture if the outer package is damaged.

b.     Keep rolls in their plastic canisters if you still have them, since they are very resistant to crushing and light.

2.     Add your contact and order info

a.     Include a slip of paper with your name, phone/email, and order number or clear written instructions (what you want done: develop only, develop + scans, prints, etc.).

b.     Put this note inside the same plastic bag so it cannot get separated from your film.

3.     Cushion everything inside a padded mailer or small box

a.     For a few rolls or 1–2 disposable cameras, a padded bubble mailer is usually enough; for larger quantities, use a small, sturdy box with some packing paper or bubble wrap so items don’t rattle around.

b.     Avoid thin paper envelopes; they can tear and don’t protect against impact.

4.     Seal and label the package securely

5.     Tape all edges and seams so the package cannot open in transit.

6.     Attach a printed carrier label (USPS, UPS, FedEx, etc.) firmly; do not rely on loose tape or handwritten labels that can peel off.

Special notes: film vs disposables

• 35mm and 120 film rolls
• Make sure rolls are fully rewound into the cartridge or backing paper before mailing.
• Keep them in canisters, if possible, then into the plastic bag and padded mailer/box as above.
• Disposable cameras
• Do not try to open the camera; just send the whole camera to the lab, which will safely remove the film in the darkroom.
• Pack disposables like small, rigid objects: plastic bag, then padded mailer or box with a bit of cushioning so they don’t bang around.

Choosing a shipping method

• Use tracked shipping
• Ship with a service that provides tracking (for example, USPS Ground Advantage or similar), so you can see when the package arrives at the lab.
• Ground services are generally safest for unprocessed film and also avoid repeated high‑intensity scanning used in some air transport systems.
• Marking film shipments (optional but helpful)
• You may mark the outside “Photographic film—please do not X‑ray” so carriers know the contents are light‑sensitive.
• Carriers cannot always guarantee no scanning, but many will try to accommodate when possible.

Temperature and handling tips

• Avoid extreme heat
• In very hot weather, choose a faster service and avoid leaving your package in a hot car or direct sun before mailing.
• Drop it inside a post office or indoor mailbox where possible.
• Cold is generally fine
• Normal winter cold is not harmful to film during shipping, as long as it stays dry.