What is the best method to package a scale model for shipping to protect antennas and fine parts, particularly if it is mounted on a diorama as well. Shrink wrap??? versus peanut stuffing to eliminate space and movement? (1/35th scale)
I do know that one of the best things to do is to have whatever is being shipped packed well in an inner box, which is then in a lrger box with the space filled with the peanuts. I have shipped very deliacte cermaic acroos coutry that way with out damage.
This is something I adapted from a thing I saw online once. Very secure. If this were inside a second box I think it would work well. The down side is it is only really practical for a sinlge model… not is you are moving an entire collection.
Thanks for the information. The staff here indicates an article on model shipping will appear in the February 2009 issue. I think I will try your suggestion as it is similiar to others with whom I have spoken, and I had the idea to pack peanuts around the diorama and blow dry gift basket shrink-wrap to condense the peanuts around the vehicle and base to tighten up the spaces between the small parts so they do not suffer concusssion on shipping.
I would use Marc’s advice. Blow drying shrink wrap could easily damage what you are trying to protect as it shrinks tightly.
I prefer bubble plastic, myself. Sometimes it isn’t practical for packaging in a small box, but you can carefully wrap anything in that stuff and drop it without damage.
I have shipped hundreds of models…some large ones too. The best way I have found is to use bubble wrap with popcorn placed under the bubble wrap around fine detail parts to raise it off the model. Double boxing is DEFINITELY the best way with plenty of popcorn around the inner box.
Make sure to purchase insurance to cover your investment !!!..Even the best packing job is prone to disgruntled employees who enjoy playing basketball with your boxes !