[Noin]

Originally Posted by JohnnyHotRocks

a-noin wrote:

1100+ posts....I think you have more than enough time to build a crate

[ISGUNN]

Ok,there have been some good and honest suggestions on this subject including it's the sellers choice.But maybe some guys don't really think they can build a proper box for shipping and then deal with the hassels as a result.So,I'm suggesting that a couple of you guys who have shipped models either completed ones or ones still in kit form,to show everyone how it's done.I'm sure there are a couple of different ways and under the construction section,it would be a item to cover.A tutorial sort of thing.So some of the experienced shippers could get on the chat area and decide whos first and covering what and git 'er done!!!
Just a thought.Be constructive rather than GRIPE!
Ian Gunn
MAAC 25307

[Guest]

Ian,
That's a good idea, I have to build a crate for a shrike in the next few days, I'll try to do just that!
Jeremy

[scaleguy]

Hmmm Maybe I'll start a business..... ARF Crates or Crates R Us!

Yes I realize not everyone wants to build crates and It was not my intent to "throw it in their faces". I too believe it's up to the seller, just like it's up to them who they sell to and for what price.

[V6Goose]

For both my national and international shipping, i built many crates.

Simply they are made from 3/4" plywood ripped down on a table saw and screwed together with 1 3/4" square drive wood screws.

I designed them to have a full sized base and have all four sides sit between the top and base for strength should anything heavy be placed on them.

Once the basic box was assembled, i sealed all the internal seams with silicone and placed plywood offcuts across the width of the box to support the plane on. I made two levels, one for the wing, and the second for the fuselage.

I wrapped the supports in bubble-wrap and used elastic cord to secure the plane and wing to the supports. It held it all in place without crushing the plane and allowed a little movement which resulted in no breakages whatsoever.

I placed a final bead of silicone around the top of the box and screwed the top on. In theory this should be both air and water tight.

In fact, in both cases (national and internation freighting) everything arrived exactly as i had packed it and nothing was broken. My international crate had a 1/2" deep by 8" gash down one side and various smaller damage to the crate on arrival.

For national delivery, you could make the crates out of a lighter grade of timber, but my way you dont need any additional supports or substructure.

Picture attached (hopefully)

Hope this helps guys...

cheers

Goose

[scaleguy]

3/4" plywood!

Those crates must ahve been 100 lbs by them selves.

[V6Goose]

Yep, they were pretty heavy, but all the contents survived

I used 6 sheets of it at 2400x1200mm @ $35 per sheet (NZ$)

Cheers

Goose