Shipping a pie may seem complicated because of its vulnerability to damage and you might be wondering how you can successfully get it to your intended destination. Hence the question, "how to ship a pie?" In this post, we have gathered detailed information that covers all the things you need to know when shipping a pie.
Shipping a pie is not as difficult as you may think. Here is a step-by-step process to follow if you want to ship a pie:
- Bake, wrap, and freeze the pie.
- Choose a good pie box and packaging materials.
- Remove the pie from the freezer.
- Place the pie inside a box and close properly.
- Design the pie box.
- Place the pie box inside a shipping box.
- Secure the shipping box.
- Mail the pie overnight.
If you want to ship a pie, it is better to buy or bake the ones that are good for shipping. Continue reading to get detailed information on how to successfully ship a pie.
Shipping A Pie
Shipping a pie is not the same as shipping a non-perishable food item. If you want your pie to arrive in one piece, you will need to use boxes and other packing materials.
It is better to bake your pie in the appropriate type of tin. You should consider using pie pans that have a conical lid. These conical lids are usually made of plastic.
If you are getting a pie from the store, it usually comes with these standard lids that can fit over the pie tin. If you are baking the pie, it is better to do so in an aluminum pie pan with a conical lid to make transportation easier. Here is the step-by-step procedure for shipping a pie:
Step 1: Bake, Wrap, And Freeze The Pie
After baking or buying your pie, wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. The plastic wrap should cover the pie tin and conical lid. Leave the pie in the freezer for a few hours. Then, take it out of the freezer.
Step 2: Choose A Good Pie Box And Packaging Materials
Ensure you have all of the materials you need to give your pie the best protection. The materials you will be needing include RSC corrugated carton, pie box, bubble wrap, loose fill, wrapping paper, satin ribbon, and carton sealing tape.
It is better to use a pie box because other boxes may not be suited for holding your pie. Also, pie boxes make storing the pie convenient for the recipient.
Click here to see this kraft pie box on Amazon.
Step 3: Remove The Pie From The Freezer
When your pie is already frozen, carefully remove it from the freezer. Always make sure the pie is frozen so it will be more solidified for transport. This also helps to maintain the pie's freshness before it gets to the recipient.
Step 4: Place The Pie Inside A Box And Close Properly
After removing your pie from the freezer, it's time to put it in your preferred packaging box but it is better to use a pie box. Some pie boxes may even have extra protective features. Remember to close your box very well.
Step 5: Design The Pie Box
You can design the pie box to customize your package. Finish the look with a good-looking satin bow. You can also add a gift note to the package.
Step 6: Place The Pie Box Inside A Shipping Box
After decorating your pie box, it's time to get your shipping box ready. To keep your pie box in place, you need to put enough padding in the shipping box. Make sure to wrap the pie box in a bubble wrap before placing it in the middle of the shipping box.
Cover the box with loose fill and ice packs to keep the pie cool during transit. Using ice packs to cushion the box will keep it cold for some time. Add an extra layer of protection between the pie and the external elements.
Step 7: Secure The Shipping Box
Close the shipping box and secure it tightly with sealing tape. Ensure the pie has enough cushion so that it does not move around. To preserve and keep your pie fresh and airtight, double-check to make sure there are no gaps in the box.
Step 8: Mail The Pie Overnight
As the same goes for other edible items, sending a pie requires specific shipping requirements. Pies should be kept chilled since they are perishable.
Night delivery is a better choice when shipping a pie through the mail because it ensures that the pie reaches its destination while it is still fresh. You don't want your recipient to receive a spoiled pie. With the ice packs and express shipping, they can enjoy a fresh pie.
What Type of Pies Are Good For Shipping?
It's important to note that not all pies can be shipped. For instance, cream pies are more likely to get ruined in transit. Pies with meringue aren't good for shipping, and if you are just an ordinary person who bakes pies, there is very little you can do to manage the situation.
If you want to make meringue or cream pies for shipping, you may want to consider another choice. You can make specific arrangements with the mail service to ship items that need to be kept refrigerated.
Pumpkin pies, fruit pies, and double-crust pies are good for shipping. You will have no problem shipping these pies as long as they are well packed and shipped off on time.
What Size Of Box Is Needed When Shipping A Pie?
When shipping pies, you can't use any box, especially if you want your pie to arrive in one piece. This means you need to select the right size of box for your pie.
If the box is too small, it can be overloaded, causing the pie to bend, split, or break open. If too big, the content can move during shipment, potentially leading to damage. Excess pressure could also make the content of your box scatter.
What Are Pie Boxes Made Of?
Pie boxes are made of cardboard, paperboard, or corrugated fiberboard. They can be designed on a computer before being sent to the die-cut machine, which molds the box. When the machine is done cutting out all of the pieces, they are stacked and glued together at the corners. The flaps of the pie boxes are then heat-sealed around their edges to keep them flat.
How Long Does Pie Last Unrefrigerated?
Some pies can last longer out of the freezer for hours than others especially when baked without eggs or milk. But, your pie will last longer if refrigerated. You should always keep your pie refrigerated if you live in a hot region.
A cherry pie is can last for about one or two days outside the freezer. If you bake or buy pecan, custard, pumpkin, and cream pies make sure to keep them refrigerated.
How Much Does Shipping A Pie Cost?
There is no specific price for shipping a pie. But the cost of shipping a pie can be influenced by the shipping company, how fast the delivery is, distance, and package size. The smaller the box, the cheaper it will be to ship.
You may have to pay more if you are shipping a pie. Paying for special handling reduces the risk of damage during transit. So, you should consider it.
To Wrap Up
It is better to use packing material like bubble wraps or air pillows so your pie will be well secured in transit. It is also advisable to use a pie box to hold your pie. When choosing a pie box, you should consider the size of your pie. Lastly, always make sure your shipping box is well closed.
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