Safe Packing and Shipping

Shipping your ILL Items

The Interlibrary Loan Office asks that you please follow our safe packing and shipping guidelines, keep reading this page to learn more. A prepaid return label was provided with each Interlibrary Loan and Document Delivery request that was mailed to you. If you cannot find the label, feel free to contact us for assistance.

How to Package Interlibrary Loan/Document Delivery Returns

  1. Make sure the Transaction Number (TN#) on the book band matches the prepaid return label (example shipping label below).
    • Please do not ship multiple items in the same package unless the shipping label indicates they belong together or the item is a multi-volume set (ex. vol 1, vol 2, etc. of a series).
    • The return label is found inside of the front cover of the book. If you cannot find the label, feel free to contact us for assistance.
  2. Place the item(s) in the box/package. Fill any empty space with packing material*** for protection.
  3. If reusing a cardboard box, black out/remove old writing, labels, and barcodes from the box.
  4. Seal the package with packing tape.
  5. Place the return label on the center of the package.
  6. All packages should be dropped off at your local UPS Store.
    • Please drop off your package in person and keep your confirmation receipt.

***Packing material can include bubble wrap, packing paper (NOT newspaper), packing peanuts, ripped-up or balled-up paper, plastic grocery bags, air-filled plastic bags, etc. 


How to Package All Other Library Returns

  1. Place the item(s) in the box/package. Fill any empty space with packing material*** for protection.
    • Padded envelopes or boxes are both acceptable, however, check the couriers’ website for any further parameters. For further instruction on how to ship the item, contact UPS/FedEx/USPS for guidance on local drop-off locations and specifications.
    • Please include any relevant paperwork.
  2. If reusing a cardboard box, black out/remove old writing, labels, and barcodes from the box.
  3. Seal the package with packing tape.
  4. Place the return label on the center of the package.
    • Best practice is to use a courier that provides tracking, such as UPS or FedEx.
    • If you are using your own label, place the shipping address on the center of the package (shipping addresses below). Then place the return mailing address on the upper left corner of the package.
      • Please make sure any handwritten shipping or return addresses are legible.
  5. Please drop off your package in person and keep your confirmation receipt. 

***Packing material can include bubble wrap, packing paper (NOT newspaper), packing peanuts, ripped-up or balled-up paper, plastic grocery bags, air-filled plastic bags, etc. 

Shipping Address

Please send the shipment to the appropriate address based on the shipping company you are using. If using the United States Postal Service (USPS), then include the PO Box number. If using any other courier, it is not necessary to include the PO Box number. Best practice is to use a courier that provides tracking, such as UPS or FedEx. Please use the appropriate shipping address below:

For USPS

University of Florida
Attn: Library West Circulation
PO Box 117020
Building 689, Room 134
Gainesville, FL 32611-7020

For UPS/FedEx/DHL

University of Florida
Attn: Library West Circulation
1545 West University Avenue
Building 689, Room 134
Gainesville, FL 32611