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Vinyl Records - Shipping, max/min temperatures

Greetings.

I will be shipping my entire vinyl record collection soon, and am researching shipping methods.  It's too much for me to load them in my car or even my pickup truck.  The move will be cross country, about 2500 miles.

We all know that if vinyl is exposed to temperatures too high, they will likely warp.  I am thinking that this being January, excessively high temperatures are not likely to be encountered during shipping.   But what about low temperatures?  What would be the safest minimum temperature the vinyl could be exposed to without damage?

btanchors

Showing 1 response by ghdprentice

ghdprentice
6,443 posts
 

I would think if packed snuggly it would not matter. For fun I asked Bard:

 

There's not a definitive "safe" minimum temperature for shipping vinyl records, but it's generally better to avoid extreme cold below freezing (0°C or 32°F) for extended periods. While vinyl itself can withstand colder temperatures, potential concerns arise:

1. Brittleness: At very cold temperatures, vinyl can become slightly brittle, increasing the risk of cracks or chips during handling or in transit. This is especially true for older or worn records.

2. Condensation: When records transition from cold to warm environments, condensation can form on their surface,potentially attracting mold or warping the record. This risk increases with colder temperatures and higher humidity.

3. Shipping delays: Extremely cold weather can lead to shipping delays or cancellations due to hazardous conditions for transportation.

Instead of focusing on a strict minimum temperature, consider these guidelines:

  • Ship during milder weather: If possible, opt for shipping when temperatures are closer to room temperature (18°C - 21°C) to avoid both extreme heat and cold.
  • Pack securely: Use proper record mailers made for vinyl with adequate padding and insulation. Secure the records within the packaging to prevent movement during transit.
  • Allow records to acclimate: If your records experience cold temperatures during shipping, let them adjust to the room temperature for a few hours before handling or playing them. This helps prevent condensation and reduces the risk of warping.

By following these recommendations and avoiding excessively cold temperatures, you can safely ship your vinyl records and minimize the risk of damage.

Additional tip: If you're concerned about a specific shipping destination with exceptionally cold weather, consider contacting the recipient to ensure they can receive the package promptly and allow the records to acclimate before handling.

Remember, good packing and handling are crucial for safe shipping at any temperature. By taking proper precautions, you can ensure your records arrive safely and ready to spin.

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