Best way to ship a 4-inch Tak refractor interstate?
If I need to ship an FSQ-106ED in its original packing box interstate, what's the best method?
I assume a courier is preferable to Australia Post (if they do it at all), but not sure if any will pick up from a private address in a country NSW town (I'm in Kandos near Mudgee).
The scope and box weigh 9.1kg and the external size is 680 x 270 x 360 (0.066 cu.m.).
I'd want the item insured of course ... any advice on this welcome also.
I have used Aus Post to send FSQ's before (I've had a few lol), but by far the best was Pack n Send, though it seems they have dropped the ball a bit lately.
You could always send to me...I'd post it again...eventually
Australia Post would be my choice.
If you use P&S definitely don't do an online booking and payment - if the scope goes missing there's no insurance even though you paid for it. AFAIK P&S personalised booking over the phone is ok.
I certainly would not use P&S, they took 3 weeks to deliver from Hobart to Sydney and there were other issues which I wont mention here.
Those dimensions are within the limits for AustPost and I would suggest you use them. There will be a postoffice near the recipient, if there's no-one home at the time its delivered.
Couriers on the other hand will take it back to their base which could become a nightmare if the recipient has to collect from them.
If not, the only thing I would have suggested is double boxing with a compliant foam between the inner and outer boxes. Something more compliant than the polystyrene shown between the outer and middlebox, in the video.
Thanks for the replies and unboxing video folks. In actual fact have now sold to buyer within driving distance, so problem solved. Good to hear some positives about Australia Post for a change!
Oh, you drive a DUKW... Yanks 
