On 5/30/14, 5:05 PM, "Matthew Sohn" <[log in to unmask]> wrote: >I avoid FedEx and only use UPS when I have to. All large shippers have >their problems.. Agreed that all large shippers have their issues. See my response to �FedEx vs UPS vs USPS� and my claim against UPS. To be fair, a claim against FedEx may be just as difficult. My issue with UPS is with the potential theft that can take place at their transfer facilities. In general, I�ve found FedEx to be faster and more cost-effective than UPS for my media shipments. >Another option for larger delicate items is to strap it on a pallet and >consign it to a trucking company. At any rate, protective packaging is >key. When I bought my SP-15 Turntable with extra-large plinth, The seller >got a carpenter friend to build him a plywood box to his dimensions. Just >imagine the worst thing that could happen to the box, and do what you can >to mitigate it. Matt, great points. Such plywood crates don�t cost as much as you might think. Often moving companies can build these crates for you - they build them all the time. That�s what we do. Most of our crates are under $50 - the most expensive thing we ever had crated was $150 (100 lbs, 24 x 18 x 84). Prices may vary, of course, since this is a custom service. Well worth it for anything valuable or fragile. ~ Eric >-Matt Sohn >