Shipping an instrument under full string tension increases the risk of cracks and damages. We recommend shipping with the bridge down.
- Lower the setup: Loosen the strings and carefully remove the bridge. Especially for the cello – if soundpost doesn’t fall on its own, it can be gently pushed over through the f-holes.
- Protect the varnish: Wrap the bridge in soft tissue or cloth or paper and place it underneath the tailpiece. Re-tighten the strings just enough to keep the bridge and tailpiece securely in place.
- Use a soft wrap: Place the instrument inside a dedicated cloth bag or wrap it in a soft, non-abrasive fabric or cling film before placing it in the case.
- Interior padding: Place the instrument in its case and fill every void (around the ribs and C-bouts) with soft tissue or bubblewrap. Place a small tissue pad between the fingerboard and the top plate.
- Final case prep: Cover the top of the instrument with bubblewrap before closing. Ensure all accessory compartments are empty or taped shut. The violin should not move at all when the case is closed. Include your contact information inside the case.
Double-box for safety:
- Use a heavy-duty, rectangular cardboard box.
- Ensure there are at least 5 cm of clearance between the case and the box walls.
- Center the case and pack all sides tightly with dense material like foam, packing peanuts, or crumpled newspaper so the case cannot shift.
Shipping a bow (without a hard case)
- The PVC method: Place the bow in bubble wrap and slide it into a rigid PVC pipe. Ensure the pipe is significantly longer than the bow so the tip and frog never touch the end caps.
- The beam method: Alternatively, wrap the bow and tape it to a rigid wooden or metal beam that exceeds the bow’s length.
- Outer box: Place the tube or beam inside a secondary shipping box and surround it with padding. Include your name, email and phone number inside.