OT? Shipping issues?

[Ben Scott]

On Tue, Mar 24, 2009 at 11:55 AM, Alex Hewitt <hewitt_tech at comcast.net> wrote:
> I'll probably just send the whole thing USPS.  I don't know how the USPS
> insures but I do know that it's a separate item so maybe it will mean
> something.

  I rather doubt it will make a significant difference.  I've had
stuff destroyed by USPS, too, and that's really what you care about.

  Remember, your package is one of literally millions per day, being
tossed around by people who often aren't paid well or treated well by
management or their customers, and machinery which prolly isn't
maintained well, if it was designed well in the first place.  This is
not a system conductive towards success.  Engineer appropriately.

  Your best bet is simply to pack things *very* well.  At a minimum,
double box -- use two shipping cartons, in addition to whatever
packaging the item itself comes in.  Use thick cardboard for both
shipping cartons.  Make sure all spaces are filled with packing
material, not just an air gap.  Tape all seams of both cartons well.
Cover it in large, dayglo "Fragile" stickers.  If you're really
worried, use a wooden crate for the outer container.

  I know Pak Mail (before they got bought by whoever) used to offer
independent insurance if they packed it.  Something like that would be
your best bet if you want reliable insurance coverage.

  As always, *carefully read the fine print of the insurance agreement*.

-- Ben