UPS -- United Parcel Service -- is a package delivery service that offers shipping both in the United States and internationally. If you are looking to send chocolates using UPS, there are several things you must keep in mind to ensure that the chocolates don't melt on the way to the desired destination. Selecting the fastest shipping method offered by UPS plays a big part in keeping your chocolates safe; however, the packaging process is just as important.

Get a box that has enough room to fit the chocolate pack with the ice packs and the packing peanuts. The box needs to be able to fit the chocolate pack in the center, and the ice, or gel ice packs you have on the side.

Seal all the crevices and open edges from inside the box using the tape. This will ensure that hot air doesn't penetrate the box that easily, and will keep the cool air originating from the ice packs inside the box.

Add a layer of packing peanuts on the bottom of the box. Then wrap the chocolate pack with bubble wrap and place it in the center of the box.

Place your ice packs on the sides of the box. Place a layer of packing peanuts between the chocolate pack and the ice packs to keep the ice packs separate from the chocolate pack. The packing peanuts will absorb any moisture that may be released from the ice packs. This will ultimately protect your chocolates from getting wet, mostly if you are sending the chocolates to a hot location.

Seal the box from the outside using the tape. Make sure that you also seal any crevices from the outside using the tape.

Take the box to the nearest UPS store and fill out the form provided by the representative. Overnight or second-day morning shipping is recommended for items such as chocolates to ensure quality. Also, ask the UPS rep to label your box as "Fragile," "Perishable" and "This Side Up."