Mission Possible - Part IV

Perfecting the packaging process !

Ten years later,  with dozen of  string instruments shipped and received,  -I hope that-I have finally pushed the envelope on “perfecting “ the packaging and shipment process for wooden string musical instruments.

I had previously written three in-depth step-by-step  articles regarding packing and shipping string musical instruments, securely.

These articles throughout the years received positive  feedback from luthiers and bouzouki players/ owners

A recent in depth research on relative humidity and temperature motivated me to change a little the way I pack and ship instruments especially during the summer months.  

Here is  the new updated version

1. Take multiple photos of your instrument before packing for insurance purposes . Be sure your photo app has a time stamp with date and time ( and optionally the location - I am using the Timestamp camera app)

2 . Detune the strings (loosen up all the way the strings ) and carefully remove the bridge and the tailpiece’s cover/ cap ( when applicable ) away from the soundboard.

3. Wrap with bubble wrap and store the bridge and the tailpiece inside the inner pocket of the case.

4. Use brown paper to fill up all the empty space between the instrument and the case, so the instrument will not move during shipment.

5. Purchase Boveda 49% two ways humid packs (8 gr)  and place two inside the inner pocket and two under the headstock.

6. Cut a piece of brown paper and cover the soundboard area

7. Close the case and seal its inner humidity levels by tightly wrapping two plastic bags. Be sure you do not leave any opening between case and plastic  bags.

8. Place the case inside a 43X16X16 cardboard box and fill up the empty space with paper and bubble wrap 

9. Use enough bubble wrap and paper to create a stable and solid cushion between the instrument’s case and the cardboard box.

10. Use multiple fragile stickers all around the box, and place the shipping label at the upper side of the box, so the postal carrier will usually place the box the proper way.

Add insurance and you are ready to go

Good luck