What is a seam split?
A seam split is a tear in the edge of a record sleeve, most often at the top or bottom. And the culprit? It’s usually the record itself.
When a vinyl record is packed inside the sleeve and the package experiences a sudden shock (like a courier hitting a speed bump), the record lifts up briefly — then slams back down into the sleeve. That impact can be strong enough to split the seam open.
This kind of damage is especially common during international shipping, where packages are in transit longer and face more handling.
Why international shipping increases the risk
A shipment from the Netherlands to the USA, for example, goes through a lot:
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Multiple handover and transfer points
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Conveyor belts, trucks, planes
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Busy sorting centers
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Time-pressured delivery staff
We wish every package handler cared about vinyl the way we do — but that’s not the reality. Most don’t know what’s inside, and parcels are treated the same as any other box.
That’s why we take matters into our own hands — by controlling how we pack your order.
Tip: Choosing express shipping can significantly reduce the risk of damage.
With express delivery, your package typically stays within a single carrier network, reducing the number of handovers and transfers. Unlike slower, postal-based options — where shipments often pass through multiple facilities over several days — express services involve fewer steps, fewer delays, and fewer chances for your record to be mishandled.
How We Help Prevent Seam Splits (And What You Can Do Too)
At deRapWinkel.nl, we go the extra mile to protect your records from damage. Here’s how:
1. Free Seam Split Prevention Service
The single most effective way to prevent a seam split is to remove the vinyl from the sleeve before shipping.
That’s why we offer this free of charge. You can simply select our Seam Split Prevention option at checkout.
Here’s what we do:
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Carefully open the outer sleeve (without damaging the shrink wrap)
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Place the record behind the jacket, inside a protective outer sleeve
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The shrink wrap, hype sticker, and any numbered sticker remain intact
You keep the collectible value — and avoid nasty shipping damage.
2. Protective inner & outer sleeves
Not all sleeves are equally strong. Thin cardboard or special finishes are more vulnerable. We take this into account when packing, and add extra protection where needed — especially with limited editions or rare pressings.
3. Tight, sturdy packaging
Our shipping boxes include stiffeners and extra reinforcement to prevent movement inside the box. Everything is packed snug to minimize impact and shifting.
4. Horizontal placement
Records that lie flat are less likely to shift and hit the sleeve edges. While we can’t control how couriers handle the package after it leaves us, we prepare every shipment to handle impact from all sides.
What You Can Do as a Customer
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Select the “Ship outside the sleeve” option at checkout (free)
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For large or valuable orders, feel free to request extra packaging
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Not sure what’s best for a specific release? Just ask — we’re happy to help.
In Summary
Seam splits are annoying — but usually preventable.
With smart packing choices and a little extra care, we can make sure your record arrives safely and in perfect condition.
Have questions about our shipping methods? Want to know how we protect a specific release?
Reach out — we’re here for vinyl lovers like you.
