[Hallicrafters] How do you ship boatanchors?

[Sandy and Kees Talen]

I don't know if Canadian regulations are different, they probably are.
How close to the border are you ?

I've shipped several 80+/- pound radios like the S-36, HT-32A, 75A3, 
HT-37, 75A2, B&W 5100, etc. The Collins radios are lighter but 
that B&W sure isn't. All arrived safely with no damage.

1) I use UPS exclusively. 
2) First remove any protruding items like dial spinner knobs, make
     sure the tubes are well seated and nothing is loose (like an add-
     on speaker held with one screw). Don't pack anything heavy 
     inside the radio. Spare tubes in bubble wrap is OK, a spare 
     output transformer, tuning capacitor, etc is not. Pack the manual
     outside the cabinet (unless its an HQ-129X operations manual).
3) Roll the radio in LARGE bubble wrap with the bubbles facing 
    inward. Use 6-7+ layers ...this is important to absorb shock 
    on heavy equipment. What you get is a tightly wrapped, energy 
    absorbing cocoon. Buy the big $26 roll at package stores, good 
    for several radios.
4) Use a double wall box. Many computer manufacturers use those 
    and moving companies call them "dish packs". Single layer boxes 
    are just not strong enough. I don't see the need for double boxes.
    Used boxes are OK if they are straight ....cost about $2-$3 
5) Fill the space between the bubble wrap and the box with sheets 
    of 3/4"-1" thick foam insulation board (1 or 2 layers) from a lumber
    yard. Cost about $8-$9 per 4ft x 8ft sheet, good for several radios.
6) Charge the buyer what it cost you. They will appreciate the effort 
    and are more than happy to pay a few extra dollars. I have never
    had anyone grip about the packaging cost once they see it and the 
    fact their radio arrived safely.  
7) I crate things like Hemi heads, not radios. The only advantage of
    crating I can see is that the shipper won't be "throwing it around"
    but for 80 pound radios I doubt there is much throwing. The 
    accidental hard impact is what you are protecting against. 
    
73  Kees K5BCQ