Shipping basses

Do you have three arms and three legs?

 

*bump*

 

Always a risk with any shipping. I've been shipping some items lately, and have found that FedX is often a good bit less in their rates for the same destination. Both shippers will package your item, but it's not cheap. I've asked UPS local guy to offer advice on how and what to use, and he's been very helpful. The first $100 of insurance coverage is included at no charge. After that, you pay extra, but, IMO, worth it.

 

I've always packed my own when I sold them but I always packed them with padding inside a hard case, then wrapped the case in bubble wrap, and filled a shipping box with enough peanuts to keep the case from moving around inside the box. Then I tape the shipping box so that all the flaps and seams are completely sealed. So far all my buyers have been very happy with the packing jobs I've done.

I've also asked the UPS store I use about packing it and they said they would do it for a "fee" plus the cost of materials. Unfortunately that was a while ago so I don't remember what that fee was. They also said that having them pack it could be helpful if arrives damaged and there's a claim filed, which I guess makes sense. But so far I've been pretty lucky, same goes with the basses I've bought used here.

 

Pack it yourself, you WILL do a better than they will. Pack with enough materials that it takes a LITTLE bit of work to close up the thing being closed, whether it is the case or the box the case is in. After closing, shake vigorously. If you hear any noise or movement, add more packing materials until there is no noise/movement.

ALSO, put your address on slips of paper in the case in many places and in the outer box. If they crunch it up good you do want them to know who needs an apology, don't you? Make sure you insure it too.