A Brief Guide to Packing and Shipping Musical Instruments

Transporting your musical instrument

You can send musical instruments via the postal service or via a commercial carrier. When sending musical instruments via the postal service, you can use the priority mail service for packages that are too large for standard mail. The priority mail postage rates are based on the weight of the contents. You can use the commercial parcel service if your instrument is still too large for the priority mail service. 

Note: Large musical instruments must be transported by a commercial carrier. You can send smaller musical instruments via commercial carriers. 

When you send musical instruments via a commercial carrier, you get a tracking number for the package. Commercial carriers charge a fee, according to the size of the package, for the shipment. 

Note: If you are transporting musical instruments with a value of more than $250, you must declare the value of the instruments on the shipping label. 

It may be necessary to ship your musical instruments via an express carrier if the delivery is time-sensitive. Before you ship your instrument, check with the carrier to see if you can use an express service for your shipment. The express carriers have different rates and services. If you use an express carrier, you must use an express supply chain to ensure that your instrument is secure and safe. 

Packaging the musical instrument

Packaging is an important part of transporting musical instruments. The packaging must be designed so the instrument is secure and protected from harm. 

If you are sending your instrument via the mail, you can use a postal supply chain to ensure the safety and security of your instrument. If you are shipping your instrument via a commercial carrier, you can use a commercial supply chain to ensure the safety and security of your instrument.

The container must be designed to protect the instrument. If you use a postal supply chain, you must place the musical instrument in a protective cover and use a shipping box that is designed for shipping musical instruments. 

If you use a commercial supply chain, you must use a shipping box that is made of corrugated cardboard. The shipping box must be reinforced with double corrugated cardboard. 

Note: Always consult your instrument manufacturer’s recommendations for packing and shipping. 

Transport/Shipping Insurance

When you ship musical instruments, you can purchase insurance to cover damage or loss of the instruments. The cost of the insurance depends on the type of instrument, its value and the way it is being shipped. 

If you purchase shipping insurance, the shipping company or carrier will provide you with a claim number. You must have your shipping receipt and the claim number when you file a claim. 

Note: If the value of the musical instrument is more than $2,000, the item is not eligible for insurance coverage. 

Double-check before shipping 

Before you ship your musical instrument, you should check it to make sure it is secure and not damaged. The packaging should be in good condition and secure before handing it over to your courier service provider. 

If you have a commercial supply chain, you should check to see that the shipping container is in good condition and secure. You should check the instrument for loose parts, missing parts and cracks. If you notice a problem with any of these, contact your instrument manufacturer to determine what to do next. 

In the unlikely event that your musical instrument arrives damaged, you must contact the carrier and the courier company. You should keep the damaged instrument in the shipping container and keep the shipping receipt and claim number. 

Note: If the value of the musical instrument is more than $250, you must file a claim and keep the damaged instrument in the shipping container. 

Keep track of your delivery

After you ship your musical instrument, you can use your courier’s online tracking system to track the delivery. You can find out if your package is delivered on time and if it is damaged. 

If your package is damaged or lost, you should file a claim with the courier company or carrier. 

If your package is delivered on time and is in good condition, you should put the instrument in your home or office. Store your instrument in an area that will protect it from temperature changes and humidity. 

Always consult your instrument manufacturer’s recommendations for handling and storage.

If you would like to know more about how to send your musical instruments the safest and most secure way, visit the Fast Courier website now!