If I do not have the original shipping box/boxes, I indicate the price for packaging on the add. I would package the items myself, but feel the unit/s being sold are priced at fair and market value. The 'extra' for packaging is for as much for ME as it is the BUYER! The buyer does not want a damaged package just as much as the seller doesn't want it to arrive damaged.
The beauty of all online transactions is that we can all negotiate. EVER person selling SHOULD do whatever it takes to BE SURE the packages arrives safe and as described.
If this means adding this into the cost of the item and just charge 'actual shipping', so be it. The SELLER needs to be aware of the necessity of proper packaging.
NOW, the BUYER has a responsibility as well, in fact, an equal amount I would say. Suppose you are buying a $1,000 amp, it weighs 75 pounds and the seller indicates no origial box but tells you shipping is $41.22. As a buyer, you should question HOW this individual plans on shipping an amp that weighs 75 pounds without the factory box.
I think we ALL know by now, UPS and FedEx WILL NOT COVER CLAIMS for electronics for damage that:
1) is not double boxes.
2) does not have 2" or 4" of padding on ALL sides of the inner box with APPROPRIATE packaging. This does not mean newspaper and a few peanuts.
3) there is no indication of damage to the exterior of the shipping box.
As a buyer, you need to be aware of this and ask the questions to prevent damage to YOUR investment. After all, you buy insurance for you auto, home, and life, a few questions and $'s is a WONDERFULLY inexpensive way to avoid disappointment and frustrations with your new and exciting audio purchases!!!!
Dan
