Whether you are selling, trading, donating, or giving away a board game as a gift, you want to make sure you are handing over a complete and well-organized package. Before sending it by mail or passing it along to another player, take a few minutes to inspect the contents and prepare everything for safe storage and transport. Here are some practical tips to help you get started.
Begin by spreading out all the game pieces and opening the rulebook. Look for a "parts list" that identifies the individual components included with the game. Compare the list with the pieces you have in front of you. If anything is missing, document exactly which components are unavailable. Do not assume that another player will overlook missing pieces. The manufacturer's website may also provide updated rulebooks and component lists for specific games. Keep in mind that older and newer editions of the same game may contain different components.
Once you have identified the available and missing pieces, sort the remaining components into categories based on their function. Place each category in a small zippered pouch to keep everything organized. Many board games contain player-specific pieces, such as tokens or markers. If each player has a separate set of tokens, store each set in its own pouch. Shared components, such as dice and coins, should be stored separately. As All My Sons suggests, placing board game pieces in individual bags helps prevent them from shifting around during transport and reduces the risk of losing components.
If the game includes cards that are too thick to fit inside plastic sleeves, use a thin cardboard container or a flexible paper strip to hold the stack without damaging the card edges. Secure the strip with tape, keeping the adhesive well away from the cards themselves. Whenever possible, store the official rulebook next to the game board rather than underneath a layer of tokens or other pieces. Players who purchase or receive a used game will appreciate being able to locate the instructions quickly.
Before closing the original game box, inspect its interior carefully. If the storage tray is broken or cracked, it may no longer hold the individual pieces securely. Consider replacing it with cardboard dividers or several closed pouches, and make sure the lid fits properly. Place smaller game components beneath lighter items, such as cards, and avoid allowing heavy objects to rest on top of delicate pieces. Some games include small painted figurines that require special care. Rather than wrapping them in foam or bubble wrap without considering their construction, contact the manufacturer for recommended storage methods that will better protect these fragile components.
When transporting a board game, protect both the interior components and the exterior of the box. If the cover needs extra protection, wrap the original box in a sheet of paper and secure the paper with clear tape. However, when mailing a game, always place the original box inside a larger corrugated cardboard shipping box. Use adequate cushioning materials to protect it against impacts during transit. If you are shipping multiple items together, fill the empty spaces with suitable cushioning material, such as foam packaging peanuts, to prevent the contents from shifting. You should also consult your preferred shipping carrier for its recommended packaging guidelines.
As part of your preparation, include a short note describing the game title, the number of pieces included, and any missing components. If you are selling, donating, or trading the game with potential buyers or school clubs, disclose missing parts before agreeing to transfer ownership. This simple step helps set clear expectations and prevents unnecessary frustration when someone discovers that a piece is missing in the middle of a game. With a little organization and careful packaging, an older board game can continue providing hours of entertainment for a new group of players.
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