What’s the Safest Way to Post VHS Tapes and Old Photos?

Lots of our customers tell us the same thing: “I want to get everything digitised, but I’m nervous about putting my tapes and photos in the post.”

That’s completely understandable – you’re not just sending a random parcel, you’re sending your memories. The good news is that with a bit of preparation, posting VHS tapes, camcorder tapes and photos can be very safe.

Step 1: Choose the right box

Skip thin mailing bags and choose a strong cardboard box instead. Ideally, pick one that’s just big enough for your items plus padding so things can’t rattle around.

• For a few tapes, a shoebox-style carton is usually ideal.
• For a large order, use two medium boxes instead of one huge one.

Step 2: Wrap and pad everything properly

You’re protecting against drops and crushing, so aim for soft, snug packing:

• Wrap small bundles of tapes in bubble wrap or clean packing paper.
• Use scrunched paper or air pillows to fill any big gaps in the box.
• Keep photos, slides and negatives in envelopes or plastic wallets so they don’t move around.

Avoid using newspaper directly on photographs – the ink can transfer over time.

Step 3: Make a simple contents list

Before you tape the box shut, put a contents list inside. This can be as simple as:

• Your name, phone number and email address.
• Your return address.
• A quick count of what’s inside (for example, “12 VHS, 3 MiniDV, 2 audio cassettes”).

This helps your conversion service log everything correctly and gives a second point of contact if the shipping label is damaged.

Step 4: Use tracked, signed-for postage

For irreplaceable items, always use a service that includes:

• A tracking number you can follow online.
• Proof of delivery with a signature or photo.
• Optional compensation cover if something goes badly wrong.

Keep your receipt and tracking number somewhere safe until your converter confirms safe arrival.

What we do with your parcel when it arrives

At The Video Converters, every postal order is:

• Checked in against your name and contact details.
• Logged and labelled so we know exactly what belongs to each order.
• Stored safely in our Kingswinford studio until the work is complete.

We then email you to confirm that your items are safely with us and talk you through what will happen next. You can read more about this on our How our postal service works page.

Sending memories back to you

Once your conversions are finished, we:

• Pack your tapes, films and photos back up carefully.
• Include any USB sticks, DVDs or printed instructions you’ve asked for.
• Return everything using a tracked service so you can follow it home.

You’ll also receive your private digital download link by email, so you can start watching and backing up straight away.