How to Safely Ship Your Wedding Dress: A Step-by-Step Guide

Your wedding dress is one of the most precious garments you’ll ever own, and ensuring it arrives safely at its destination is a top priority. Whether you’re shipping it ahead for a destination wedding, sending it to a preservation service, or mailing it to a loved one, the process may seem daunting. However, with careful preparation and the right packing techniques, you can confidently ship your gown while keeping it protected and wrinkle-free.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through the safest way to ship your wedding dress, whether you’re using UPS, FedEx, DHL, or the United States Postal Service.

Step 1: Prep Your Dress and Veil

Before packing, take the time to prepare your gown and veil properly. This step ensures that your dress stays in the best possible condition during transit.

Put the Dress on a Sturdy Hanger

• Choose a high-quality, padded hanger that can support the weight of your gown. Avoid flimsy plastic or wire hangers, which may cause stress on delicate fabrics.
• If your dress has intricate beading or lace, consider using a hanger with clips to provide additional support.

Prepare the Veil

Your veil is made of delicate tulle or lace, so it requires special handling.

• Gently fold it in tissue paper to prevent creases.
• Wrap the folded veil in another layer of tissue paper for added protection.

💡 Pro Tip: If your veil has intricate beading, place a layer of acid-free tissue paper between each fold to prevent imprints or snagging.

Step 2: Wrap the Dress Securely

Proper wrapping is essential to protect your gown from dust, dirt, and unnecessary wrinkles during shipping.

Lay Out a Flat Sheet

• Spread out a clean, white, cotton flat sheet on a large surface.
• This creates a protective layer that will prevent your gown from rubbing against the box or garment bag.

Place the Dress Flat

• Carefully place the dress on top of the sheet.
• Smooth out any wrinkles or folds to ensure it’s positioned neatly.

Add the Veil

• Place the wrapped veil on top of the dress for added protection.

Roll It Up Securely

• Fold the sheet over the dress to create a long, tube-like casing that encases the gown completely.
• This technique keeps the dress secure, clean, and wrinkle-free during transit.

 💡 Pro Tip: If your dress has a full skirt or long train, fold the skirt inward first before rolling it to prevent excessive wrinkling.

Step 3: Use a High-Quality Garment Bag

Place the Dress in a Garment Bag

• Once your dress is wrapped in the flat sheet, place it inside a breathable garment bag.
• A waterproof garment bag adds an extra layer of protection against moisture.
• If you need a high-quality garment bag, Savvy Bridal offers premium garment bags for a nominal fee.

Fold the Garment Bag for Compact Packing

• Fold the bag in half vertically to reduce its length.
• Then, fold it horizontally from the bottom up, creating a compact, travel-friendly packet.

💡 Pro Tip: Never use plastic dry-cleaning bags—they can trap humidity and cause yellowing over time.

Step 4: Pack It for Safe Shipping

Choose the Right Box

• Select a sturdy, medium-sized shipping box to minimize costs while ensuring protection.
• Avoid oversized boxes, which can lead to shifting and damage in transit.

Line the Box for Extra Protection

• Place a large plastic bag inside the box as a moisture barrier, in case the box is exposed to rain or humidity.

Place the Dress in the Box

• Gently position the folded garment bag inside the box.
• Fill any empty spaces with bubble wrap or tissue paper to prevent the gown from moving.

💡 Pro Tip: Use packing peanuts or foam sheets for extra shock absorption, especially for beaded or structured gowns.

Final Notes: Shipping Insurance & Tracking

To guarantee a stress-free shipping experience, follow these final tips:

✅ Choose Express Shipping – The faster the transit, the lower the risk of damage.

✅ Insure Your Dress – Check with your carrier for insurance coverage in case of loss or damage.

✅ Double-Check the Address – A simple mistake can cause unnecessary delays.

Ship Your Wedding Dress with Confidence

Your wedding gown is one of the most important pieces of your big day, and with the right preparation, you can ensure it arrives in perfect condition. By following these steps—carefully wrapping, using a garment bag, and selecting a sturdy shipping box—you can ship your dress with confidence.

Need a high-quality garment bag or packing tips? Contact Savvy Bridal for expert advice!