Jim,

Thanks for the excellent guide on packing.
I wasn't aware of the settling issue with packing peanuts, thats good to know.
I will be packing up an Alpha amplifier for shipping soon, your info is duly 
noted!

tnx es 73,
Bob
K6UJ


On Feb 27, 2011, at 4:08 PM, Jim Harris wrote:

> Hi to all,
> 
> I've been reading the comments on packing radio's for shipping with 
> considerable interest.  I've spent many years in the packing and shipping 
> world and offer a few comments here.  Some years back I authored a several 
> page paper on packing that has been on eHam and I've give permission for it 
> to appear in a book on amateur radio.
> 
> There are two aspects to consider when shipping.  First is to obviously 
> protect the item, radio in this case, from damage.  The amount and type of 
> packaging depends on fragility, weight and value of the item.  As a broad and 
> general guideline the average modern non-tube radio should have at least four 
> inches of packing between the item and the outside of the box.  Wrap the item 
> in two inches of bubble wrap and place it in a corrugated box.  Wrap that box 
> in two more inches of bubble wrap and place in a second box.  Notice there is 
> no mention of packing peanuts.  They settle 10-15 percent in transit and 
> should only be used in corners and similar location and not as cushioning.  
> Be sure nothing will move or rattle inside either box.  Slightly over stuff 
> the boxes.  Use plenty of good quality packing tape, not cellophane or duct 
> tape on the boxes.  Put name, to and from addresses, phone number, RMA number 
> etc in each box along with invoice and
> other paper work.  Put the RMA number on the outside of the box.  Up to six 
> inches of cushioning may be needed depending on, again fragility, weight and 
> value including double wall boxes or crates.  Seek a professionals guidance 
> if there is any question.
> 
> Second is to assure you pack adequately so you can collect from the carrier 
> should the item be damaged.  All carriers publish similar packing guidelines. 
>  While an inch of packing may protect many items, if the item is NOT packed 
> in accordance with the carriers guidelines you will be awarded the dreaded 
> "insufficient cushioning" award from the carrier and the carrier will NOT pay 
> an insurance claim.  Regardless of the amount of insurance or who is 
> responsible for the damage.  
> 
> Pack in accordance with the carriers guidelines.  (See their websites for 
> guidelines.)  Without doing so may result in damage and denial of a claim if 
> there is damage.  
> 
> BTW, do buy insurance.  It's cheap when compared to the overall cost of your 
> radio.  If there is damage be prepared to substantiate the insured value.   
> Don't be so foolish as to poorly pack a $2000 radio, insure it for $5000 and 
> expect to receive the full insured amount when it's damaged.  The carriers 
> have heard and denied every scheme you can imagine.
> 
> 
> Take pride in the USA. 73
> 
> 
> 
> Jim, W0EM
> 
> 
> 
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