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How To Ship A Guitar
Musical instruments such as guitars are very precarious. These objects need care and proper temperament to handle from the user. Needless to say, when you are a musician, you will move around with your guitar. When you are traveling long distances, you cannot leave the guitar behind. Therefore, it is essential to garnering an idea on how to ship the guitar. It would help if you learned about the ways you can send it with. The owner also needs to learn how to prepare the guitar for long-distance shipping.
As the owner, the primary responsibility for the guitar lies with you. If the preparation for shipping is done correctly, the actual shipping of the instrument happens quickly. In this article, we will discuss the packaging needed for shipping a guitar. Good shipping companies take care of the necessary specific packaging for guitars. However, it is best to take care of the packaging yourself. Since the instrument is yours, you adhere to all the precautions required for safe, successful shipping.
How to Ship a Guitar: Packing Requirements and Tips
Packing a Guitar for Shipping
Guitars are delicate instruments that need special care when shipping. While guitar cases protect them during transportation, additional packing is required for long distance shipping to prevent damage.
Packing Materials Needed
The main packing materials needed are:
- Newspaper or paper to wrap and pad the guitar
- A sturdy rectangular box big enough to fit the guitar
- Packing tape to secure the wrapping
6 Steps to Properly Pack a Guitar for Shipping
1. Loosen the Strings
Before packing, slightly loosen the guitar strings to reduce tension on the neck.
2. Secure Movable Parts
Use extra packing material and tape to secure any loose or movable parts that could shake loose during shipping.
3. Protect the Headstock
Wrap the sensitive headstock area with soft material like bubble wrap to protect from bumps or blows.
4. Separate Strings from Fretboard
Add packing material between the strings and fretboard to prevent friction and damage during shipping.
5. Fill Spaces Around Guitar
Fill any empty spaces in the box around the guitar with packing material to prevent movement and cushion impacts.
6. Seal Guitar Case in Box
Place guitar case inside shipping box, fill with packing material, seal box completely closed with ample packing tape.
These tips help safeguard guitars and other delicate instruments during shipping. With proper precautions, musical instruments can be securely transported long distances.
Next article: How To Ship Fragile Items
Commonly Asked Questions
Should I loosen the strings before shipping my guitar?
Yes, it's recommended to slightly loosen the guitar strings before packing to reduce tension on the neck that could lead to warping or other issues.
What's the best packing material to use?
Crumpled newspaper or packing paper works well to wrap and pad the guitar. Bubble wrap also helps protect more fragile areas like the headstock.
How should I secure parts like tuning keys and the bridge?
Use extra packing material and tape around movable parts to prevent them from coming loose or falling off during shipping.
Should I ship my guitar in its case or box it?
For long distance shipping, it's best to place the guitar case inside a sturdy outer cardboard box for added protection.
What kind of box should I use to ship my guitar?
Use a new, rigid rectangular box that's large enough for the guitar case with plenty of room to pad with packing material.
Can I ship more than one guitar in a box?
It's not recommended. Each guitar should be packed securely in its own case and outer box to prevent damage.
How should I orient the guitar inside the box?
Pack the guitar flat to distribute weight evenly and reduce pressure on delicate components during shipping.
