Sending a tuba in the U.S.

[bydloman]

I'm looking for some suggestions as to the best and safest ways to send a tuba cross country. I have an instrument crated and ready to go, but I'm not sure which company to use. Any help would be appreciated!

[ckalaher1]

I've had very good luck on several occasions with Old Dominion Freight. Professional, organized, and FAST.

They've been happy to palletize the shipping carton for me at my request, free of charge.

[Matt Good]

Gary,

I have used Old Dominion in the past. Old Dominion will also allow you to insure the full value of your instrument. Tracking your shipment is easy too.

-Matt

[groth]

R&L Carriers is another one like ABF that does a safe and economical job at shipping palletized loads and large freight. I know Custom Music in Michigan uses them. They are pretty careful with stuff.

[Tom]

Another recommendation here for Old Dominion. I have had a good experience with them. Reasonable rates, good tracking and communication, shipment arrived without issue. I have also used R&L in the past, but found Old Dominion easier to work with.

You can save significant amounts of money if you can ship business to business with loading docks at each end. If not, the freight companies can accommodate you with lift gate service or "white glove delivery" but will charge high fees for that. Also be aware that freight companies are not obligated to unload the truck, so you need to be prepared to get your item from the truck to where you want it on your own unless you've paid extra for white glove delivery. I have, however, also found a nice cash tip will get the driver to put the crate wherever I want it.

[Donn]

You can save significant amounts of money if you can ship business to business with loading docks at each end.

When I had something shipped to me on a pallet, it was unloaded in a nearby depot. I drove there (ca. 1/2 hour), backed my rusty old station wagon in, and the very skillful lady forklift operator dropped the pallet in it. Whole thing was surprisingly cheap. If that seems like something that would work, it might be a factor for which company to go with.