Saxophones are popular musical instruments that are commonly associated with popular music, big band music, blues, early rock and roll, ska and particularly jazz. They are fragile instruments that must be given extra precaution when shipping since they have many parts that could be damaged if not properly packed and protected.
However, when properly wrapped, the saxophone is very easy to ship anywhere in the world. If not done properly, a saxophone could arrive damaged beyond repair. To increase the chances of your musical instrument arriving safely at its final destination, here are practical tips on how to properly pack and ship a saxophone.
When shipping with the saxophone case, bubble wrap the instrument so it doesn’t move around. However, be careful not to use too much wrap inside the case that can crush or bend the keywork when you try to close the lid. It’s a good idea to add foam or wadded up packaging paper at the neck receiver and bottom bow for extra cushion.
After closing the case and locking the latches, wrap the case itself with bubble wrap and then put the whole thing inside a large plastic bag. Seal it up to make it water-proof.
Place the wrapped case into a heavy cardboard box and extra padding is added to secure the case firm inside the box and help absorb any shocks that the box may take during shipping.
Seal the cardboard box securely with shipping tape making sure that the box cannot come open. Attach the shipping labels to the box and cover them with clear shipping tape except for the part where the scan bars are. Also, write the address and return address somewhere else on the box in case the shipping label is damaged.
Take the package to the post office ask the USPS personnel for assistance on all the labels and forms. Purchase insurance to cover both the sax and the shipping costs, just in case something happens to the package.