insurance and shipping with UPS

FedEx isn't perfect, but I stop using UPS 10 years ago after a problem with one of their stores. I've developed a very good relationship with my local FedEx employees. They consistently go out if their way to assist me. 

Most damage is caused by poor packing. For large heavy items, double boxing is important, but it’s just as important to use the proper materials. Boxes and packing materials have specifications for the intended purpose. Even double boxing with light duty supplies for a heavy item is risky. Proper packing with proper supplies should make it difficult for damage even with some rough handling. Please understand I’m not talking about something absurd like driving a forklift through the box.

As far as the "trained experts", I’m sure some do an excellent job, while others are no better than a 6 year old doing it. Just like everything else, some are professional and take pride in what they do, while others just go through the motions because they are required to do so.

Also, I think it's a bad idea to mark fragile, etc. Sure, some will try to comply with the message, but idiots are everywhere and this prompts them to do just the opposite.

Lemme tell ya few thingies about UPS shipping.
There were 3 instances of them shipping credenza to my mom's home with UPS with original manufacturer packaging:

1st instance almost all panels damaged and box had visible puncture and drop damage -- requested replacement.

2nd instance -- replacement came-in with several panels damaged especially the base one -- requested replacement.

3rd instance very similar to 1st.

After all from 3 boxes I was able to put together one credenza.

No matter how GOOD you pack unless you pack it onto the gigantic bubble wrapped ball, the odds of successful delivery with UPS are quite low.

I disagree with NOT labeling as fragile etc for the simple fact I am sure it helped me save my money in my aforementioned post.
Yes some monkeys will see it as an enticement to try to damage but that is today's pathetic work ethic at play.
As far as at least giving you some credibility to say you tried to ask them to take care I think it outweighs the concerns.
Just my opinion.....

Thanks for all the responses. I think the primary reason my claim was resolved was due to  the letter my lawyer-wife sent to the owner of the franchise. I was also very lucky in that the buyer was so awesome. He was bummed about the amp, but was also really upset that it happened to me. He's still sitting around with the box and the amp, hopefully not in his living room, waiting for resolution. However, regardless of how well something is boxed, UPS will go way out of their way to deny liability, and even in my case, when they did the actual packaging. It's right on their website, if they packaged and it is damaged, they are liable.  Really, what is one supposed to do, go in to their store with a tape recorder to gather evidence in case something goes wrong. Can you imagine going into the franchise and asking them, "Do you mind me recording this conversation." But why should anyone ever have to go through the hassle of small claims court and the countless abusive phone calls between corporate UPS and the UPS franchise. What a waste of time and aggravation. We all have better things to do with our lives.

At any rate,  I'm liquidating all of my audio gear because I'm moving to Europe. I have very expensive speakers that I'm shipping to California and I'm having them crated for International shipping at the buyer's request. The buyer requested the ISPM label which I assume is a requirement for International.  My mover, Pickens-Kane uses Allied Van, and while they will crate they won't ship anything under 1000 lbs. I've spoken with Fed-Ex, and while they don't crate, they will box and inspect the crating, and if they feel the packaging is adequate they will then transport and guarantee against breakage. They have some sort of formula, in which they guarantee a dollar amount per pound. I spoke to them at length and they seem more reputable than UPS. Do you guys think Fed Ex is safe? If not what are the alternatives?

The crazy thing is that 4 months ago I sent a very expensive vintage watch for repair and used UPS. All I have to say is Thank God it wasn't damaged or lost. I don't think I would have ever recovered.