Shipping field guide
The sale is not finished
until the safe arrival.
Choose packaging and carrier service for the instrument—not the cheapest generic box. Tracking, insurance, and a documented pack-out protect both sides.
Seller pack-out
Stabilize. Cushion. Document.
Instrument materials respond to impact, pressure, and temperature differently. If you are unsure how to immobilize a high-value or fragile instrument, use a professional packer or contact support before shipping.
Immobilize the instrument
Secure removable parts, support vulnerable areas, prevent movement, and avoid pressure on keys, bridges, bells, headstocks, or bows.
Build a shock layer
Use a rigid outer carton with cushioning on every side. Double-box oversized, heavy, or especially fragile shipments.
Create pack-out proof
Photograph condition, serial area, accessories, each packing layer, sealed carton, label, and carrier receipt.
Match risk to coverage
Use end-to-end tracking. Consider declared value/insurance and signature confirmation based on price, theft risk, and address.
Order timeline
From handoff to inspection.
- 1Add tracking from the order
Use the exact carrier and tracking code so delivery events reach the transaction record.
- 2Monitor exceptions
Respond quickly to address holds, missed delivery, weather, damage, or carrier investigation notices.
- 3Buyer documents arrival
Photograph exterior damage before opening and retain every packing layer if a claim may be needed.
- 472-hour inspection
The buyer should compare the received instrument with the reviewed listing and report a material mismatch before the deadline.
Before carrier handoff
- Confirm the order address exactly
- Save weight, dimensions, label, and receipt
- Use tracking from origin to destination
- Keep all photos until the order closes
Avoid
- Loose movement inside the case or carton
- Labels applied over old barcodes
- Address changes outside the order record
- Discarding packaging during an open issue