August 15, 2005

I have a fairly heavy older amplifier that I want to ship to a relative so he can use it. Q: What is the best way to ship a large, heavy box? Cost is a consideration, but I also want the amp to get to its destination unharmed.

Jerry D.

A: I've used both major carriers, UPS and FedEx, many times without incident. I prefer FedEx because they seem to treat packages better (they arrive with less dirt and fewer tears and punctures) and their ground service costs a little less than UPS's. Also, my local UPS depot will open any package with a high value (say, over $500) to inspect the packing, so I've stopped using UPS for anything but at-home pickups. Some people I know ship even heavy packages Priority Mail, but I've never tried this.

When you call to arrange a pickup or fill out the paperwork for your shipment, make sure you declare a value for your package. If you don't, you are limited to $100 reimbursement if the package is damaged in transit. Both UPS and FedEx are very finicky about paying for damage they have caused, so packing your item well in the first place is very important. When in doubt, use more bubble wrap and packing peanuts, not less. One thing I do whenever I can (if the shipping box is small enough) is double box with a layer of packing peanuts all around. This provides extra cushion for the product and protects the shipping box so that it can be used again and again.

...Marc Mickelson