So, we've discussed this topic often. I did want to bring it up again though. I've done a couple recent trades with Andrew (awagner) and the guitars I received were packaged using the Stew Mac shipping system.
The entire shipping kit is a bit expensive and I already buy my boxes from Reverb and one other source. However, the heavy duty top hat and bottom come in an inflatable, very sturdy, very durable plastic unit that works really well and are also cost effective. The two parts of the guitar I worry most about are the neck/headstock area and the bottom of the guitar. I've pretty much solved the bottom part by using 2" foam that protects it well (or at least has so far).
I wanted something to help me with the top so I ordered 10 of the "top hats". They are $3.30 each (+ shipping). To me at least, that's a really fair price. I personally don't mind spending an additional $10 to $15 per guitar to try and ensure safer shipping.
You can see a pic of the various parts and the system in total here.
www.stewmac.com
The entire shipping kit is a bit expensive and I already buy my boxes from Reverb and one other source. However, the heavy duty top hat and bottom come in an inflatable, very sturdy, very durable plastic unit that works really well and are also cost effective. The two parts of the guitar I worry most about are the neck/headstock area and the bottom of the guitar. I've pretty much solved the bottom part by using 2" foam that protects it well (or at least has so far).
I wanted something to help me with the top so I ordered 10 of the "top hats". They are $3.30 each (+ shipping). To me at least, that's a really fair price. I personally don't mind spending an additional $10 to $15 per guitar to try and ensure safer shipping.
You can see a pic of the various parts and the system in total here.
