Which 'Shipping carrier provides the best overall

I've found Nsgarch above to be right on the money.

UPS Stores: UPS Stores charge a higher rate for shipping, especially insurance for high end items, compared to UPS online.

Packing: Heavy and expensive items, consider packing in two boxes with about 2 inches of foam peanuts between the inner and outer boxes - to absorb energy.

FedEx: I've had one claim when using Express Saver and they did not pay.
FedEX COD: I've used it three times and found it to be reliable so far.

Jj2468 thanks

Was the damage significantly expensive, or past the coverage?

I was told by UPS over the phone, the UPS Stores are like franchises... individually owned. The owner must seek out his own insurance provider. consequently the costs for coverage are far higher, but rates are the same. I know. I was in a spot and had to use one. rates were identical to those online, but the ins was about three times as much.

My curiosity persists as to what exactly was the reason for the carrier to not pay...??

Blindjim, a) the damage required that I replace the cd player transport, so it was not inexpensive and I thank Steve and GNSC for helping me, b) FedEx replied with a cursory form letter saying they would not pay, because there was no evidence it was their fault. It worked before I mailed it and it did not work after. However, there was no visible damage to the box, which appears to be the FedEx benchmark.

Regarding UPS: What upset me with UPS was that I telephoned them and was told they charge the same rate at the store as online. After shipping from the store with insurance, I went online to find that I could have saved about 30% or about $50 by shipping online. If they charge more for insurance at the store, I feel they should say so. If the UPS Store insurance product differs from the online one, then they should say so.

Recently, I sold an amp and the buyer asked me to put a couple of inches of foam peanuts between the inner and outer box. It was a pain to pack, but I think I may continue the practice for heavy items as I imagine it helps to have something to absorb the g-forces over miles of bouncing along in the back of a truck. Jeff

Jj2468 - thank you.

"... there was no visible damage to the box, which appears to be the FedEx benchmark."

sometimes yes, sometimes, no. Exceptions must always be noted upon receipt. Anything about the packaging that 'seems' out of the ordinary has to be notated on the drivers PDA. i DO IT AS FROM EXPERIENCE. Even if it amounts to nothing later at least the door is open.

UPS
Like others the person you get on the phone likely doesn't know... yet they think they know and offer the lesser of the two evils or just something... to placate a caller. Sad but I've found it true more often than not.

2 BOXES
Always makes sense. Crushability is a good thing sometimes... well, minor amounts. when a tow motor shoves something along and drives it into something quite solid... even three boxes ain't gonna help... or if they knock it off a stack of stuff and it just happens to fall flat, showing no apparently crushed areas.

I'm real quick getting on board with the least ime they have it the better. But, that's no slam dunk either.

Pallet-tizing goods and strapping them down appears the only solution which should circumvent 90% of the issues in haulage. Man, it's pricey though... and they will stack pallets if possible.

Safe shipping tips and alternatibves to FE & UPS.

One independant carrier which I know for a fact was being used by VSA is PILOT AIR FREIGHT. the return leg of the shipping to me from vSA was done by Pilot.

PILOT contacted me well in advance of delivery to inform me of it... even asked what would be more convienent for me scheduling wise, which I thought was real nice. As they are an 'air freight' co. Their prices are depandant upon proximity to airports. The further the pickup or delivery is from one, or close to one, will affect the shipping bill at hand. A couple recent inquiries of PILOT for pick up and delivery of even quite large and heavier stuff than UPS or FE would handle, weren't ridiculously priced. Not bad in fact.

BTW I'm not affiliated with ANY carrier whatsoever.

Just to pass on some other important items required of the carriers in the event of some issue during shipping, that will aid immensely IF a problem during shipping arises are:

Receiveing:
Above all upon delivery closely inspect the package and note ANY exceptions. Wet, holes, scrapes, dents, compressions etc. Taking a moment or two here will significantly further any claim effort, and it only takes a couple minutes to do. In fact, if possible, take a couple pics of the box too. Ensure the driver notes the exceptions as you point them out and documents them. it will require another signature from you if he/she did note them properly.

Prior to or during shipping:

1. While at the carrier or as you ship your next package, PICK UP A CLAIM FORM or two, associated with the shipping method. Some carriers have several forms for various means of shippement.

2. Take pics of everyting being shipped including the container (s).

3. Locate any previous bills of sale, cashiers check and have photo copies on hand. Like on a disc or your HD. The Declared value is not insurance. It'll needs be justified in the event of a claim.

4. If no previously acquired and appropriate claim form was obtained opt for the pursuit of a claim online. NEVER OPT FOR A 'MAILED TO YOU CLAIM FORM'... Opting for the online activity is quickest and overall best path. Asking for a 'mailed claim form' can, and with some carriers, does eliminate the online option completely.

5. Stay on the carrier. The squeaky wheel aspect here will help. so will being pleasant but persistent.

6. Take notes. Who did you speak with? When? What was supposed to happen? Where and by whom? Relying on the carriers notes and follow up is not the best choice in the event of a claim.

7. Make copies of the receipt for shipment. The bill of lading too. the carrier will request these from you for sure.

Having some of if not all of these items in place prior to sending a package is more than a prudent thought. Not needing them later is a relief for sure.

98% of this hobby involves using a carrier. giving some greater thought to protecting yourself in such events will serve you well if you're prepared in advance.