Can you stuff a flat rate box?

[Emerald_Door]

I'm getting ready to list a bulky, heavy Polo RL robe.  I can just barely squeeze it into a Medium Flat Rate box, but the flaps don't close all the way.  Would that be okay, or do I need to use the Large box?  

[Deleted]

If the flaps don't close completely then no I wouldn't use it. Have you tried putting it into a large ziplock and squishing the air out first then putting it in the box? Like one of the big 2.5 gallon or whatever size of ziplocks they are? Or even a small white trash bag or priority bag if it will fit and then squish it down, slide it in and a close the box. I've done that before.

[val2525]

How far is it from closing? Would serious taping make it close? I've done that before.

[kat]

The box can bulge like crazy, but the flaps have to close properly.

[SA]

There are items that I sell that just barely fit into a RRA box. I can get one of the flaps HALF closed. As in, it will fold over, but only half of that end flap will fold. I just tape it. I haven't had a problem in over a year. Don't know if it's right or wrong, just my experience.

ETA:  But with clothing making the box bulge, I would seriously worry about the buyer using scissors or a knife to open the box and it cutting into the item.  

[Shirley U Geste]

But with clothing making the box bulge, I would seriously worry about the buyer using scissors or a knife to open the box and it cutting into the item.

That is a concern of mine too, I don't overstuff for that reason.

[chapeaunoir]

I'll stuff but scrawl "Please open me with care" near the top flap with Sharpie, or "no knife" or something. I try not to over-stuff, though.

[Emerald_Door]

I'll try the plastic bag technique. The shipping is going to be high no matter which size box I end up using.