Are you a vinyl enthusiast who needs to ship a turntable?
Whether you’re moving to a new home or selling your beloved equipment, it’s crucial to pack it properly to avoid any damage during transit.
Shipping a turntable can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, you can ensure that your turntable arrives safely at its destination.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of packing and shipping your turntable, including tips on how to protect your records.
So, let’s get started!
How To Ship A Turntable
Step 1: Prepare Your Turntable
Before you start packing your turntable, you need to prepare it for shipping. This means removing the platter and sub platters (if relevant) and preferably removing the arm and packing it separately. If that’s not possible, secure it to the rest with a bag-tie or similar, but avoid using sticky tape as it can damage the equipment.
Also, remove the lid from hinges as movement forces can easily crack the dust cover at the weakest points where the hinge attaches. If your turntable comes with transit screws, use them to secure floating suspensions/motors, etc. If they are missing, industrial strength cling-film/shrink wrap is great for securing them.
Finally, wrap your turntable with several layers of large bubble wrap, paying particular attention to the corners. Make sure you have a full 3 layers of the 3/4” bubble wrap on all sides of your deck. Use packing tape to secure the edge pieces to the main body and make sure you cover the edges with 3 layers of bubble wrap as well. Now use packing tape to secure the bubble wrap cocoon so it cannot open.
Step 2: Pack Your Records
Once your turntable is securely packed, it’s time to pack your records. You can use a standard box or get a specific cardboard record box – the latter is specifically designed, but it is not essential.
Place your records next to their jackets in the box for added support and protection, but don’t put the records back inside them. For extra protection, you can wrap individual records in a thin layer of paper or bubble wrap or fill the boxes and gaps between records with thick cardboard, foam, packing paper or bubble wrap – just always keep them upright and don’t stack your records on top of each other.
If there’s room for your records to shift in the box, there’s room for them to scratch or chip in transit. Remember not to force the records in though – your records should be snug but not squished. If there are too many records in a box, you can warp them.
Step 3: Secure Your Box
Before you close and seal the box, place another layer of protective materials on top of the records – just a sheet of bubble wrap or cardboard will be fine. When that’s done, secure the box with parcel tape and label it with what’s inside. We also recommend that you write ‘FRAGILE’ on the box so that you and your movers remember to move the box with extra care.
Shipping a turntable requires careful preparation and packing to ensure that it arrives safely at its destination. By following these simple steps, you can protect your turntable and records from damage during transit. Remember to take your time and pack everything securely before shipping – it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Gather The Necessary Materials
To pack your turntable and records safely, you’ll need to gather the necessary materials. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Sturdy double-walled cardboard box: You’ll need a box that’s slightly larger than the dimensions of your turntable. This will be the first box that you use to pack your turntable.
2. Second cardboard box: You’ll also need a second cardboard box that’s big enough to accommodate the first box. This will be the second box that you use to pack your turntable.
3. Bubble wrap: Bubble wrap is crucial for protecting your turntable during transit. Use it to wrap your turntable with several layers, paying particular attention to the corners.
4. Stretch wrap: Use plastic stretch wrap to secure any parts of your turntable that are loose or might move during transit.
5. Packing paper: Use packing paper to wrap small components and fill in empty spaces in the boxes.
6. Packing peanuts: Use packing peanuts to create a thick protective layer in which the second cardboard box will float within the first one.
7. Styrofoam: Lay a few pieces of Styrofoam on the bottom of the second box and line its sides with Styrofoam as well.
8. Packing tape: Use high-quality packing tape to secure everything in place.
9. Marker: Use a marker to label the second moving box once you’ve packed it up.
By having all of these materials on hand, you can pack your turntable and records safely and with confidence, knowing that they will arrive at their destination intact.
Prepare Your Turntable For Shipping
If you’re planning to ship a turntable, it’s important to prepare it properly to prevent any damage during transit. Here are some steps to follow:
1. Remove the platter and sub platters (if relevant) and preferably remove the arm and pack it separately. If that’s not possible, secure it to the rest with a bag-tie or similar, but avoid using sticky tape as it can damage the equipment.
2. Remove the lid from hinges as movement forces can easily crack the dust cover at the weakest points where the hinge attaches. If your turntable comes with transit screws, use them to secure floating suspensions/motors, etc. If they are missing, industrial strength cling-film/shrink wrap is great for securing them.
3. Wrap your turntable with several layers of large bubble wrap, paying particular attention to the corners. Make sure you have a full 3 layers of the 3/4” bubble wrap on all sides of your deck. Use packing tape to secure the edge pieces to the main body and make sure you cover the edges with 3 layers of bubble wrap as well. Now use packing tape to secure the bubble wrap cocoon so it cannot open.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your turntable is protected during shipping and arrives at its destination in one piece. Remember to take your time and pack everything securely before shipping – it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Secure The Tonearm And Platter
When preparing your turntable for shipping, it’s crucial to secure the tonearm and platter properly. This will help prevent any damage to these delicate parts during transit.
First, remove the counterweight, bias weights, and any detachable headshells from the tonearm. If possible, remove the entire tonearm and pack it separately. If that’s not possible, secure the tonearm to the rest of the turntable with a bag-tie or similar, but avoid using sticky tape as it can damage the equipment.
Next, remove the platter and pack it separately. The platter can be heavy and should be carefully packed in the bottom of the box in bubble wrap or something similar.
It’s also essential to place a stylus protector on the phono cartridge and remove the headshell from the tonearm if possible. If the tonearm doesn’t have a removable headshell, then remove the phono cartridge from the tonearm and carefully package it separately.
Once all these parts are packed individually, double box them for added protection. This will result in a larger box for the size of your turntable, but it’s necessary to ensure safe shipping.
By taking these steps to secure your turntable’s tonearm and platter, you can help ensure that they arrive at their destination undamaged and ready for use.
Pack Your Turntable For Safe Transit
When it comes to packing your turntable for safe transit, there are several steps you need to follow to ensure that it arrives at its destination in perfect condition. The first step is to prepare your turntable by removing the platter and sub platters (if relevant) and preferably removing the arm and packing it separately. If that’s not possible, secure it to the rest with a bag-tie or similar, but avoid using sticky tape as it can damage the equipment.
It’s also important to remove the lid from hinges as movement forces can easily crack the dust cover at the weakest points where the hinge attaches. If your turntable comes with transit screws, use them to secure floating suspensions/motors, etc. If they are missing, industrial strength cling-film/shrink wrap is great for securing them.
Once your turntable is prepared, you need to wrap it with several layers of large bubble wrap, paying particular attention to the corners. Make sure you have a full 3 layers of the 3/4” bubble wrap on all sides of your deck. Use packing tape to secure the edge pieces to the main body and make sure you cover the edges with 3 layers of bubble wrap as well. Now use packing tape to secure the bubble wrap cocoon so it cannot open.
When packing your turntable, always pack the heaviest pieces first, starting with the platter, then the turntable and finally the dust cover. Put layers of foam in between each piece so they don’t touch. Fill all spaces with bubble wrap or packing materials to make sure they cannot move at all.
It’s also important to use a sturdy box that is big enough for your turntable and plenty of padding material. Pack all voids with more wrap or other bulk fill and double box where possible for added protection.
Protect Your Records During Shipping
When it comes to shipping records, it’s important to take extra precautions to ensure they arrive at their destination undamaged. Records are delicate and can easily scratch or warp during transit, so proper packaging is key.
First, remove the record from its sleeve and wrap it in a layer of bubble wrap or paper to prevent any movement during shipping. It’s also important to wrap the sleeve and cover separately to protect them from any scratches or damage. The disc should be wrapped tightly, but not so tight that it can create damage.
Next, place the records next to their jackets in the box for added support and protection. Fill any gaps between the records with thick cardboard, foam, packing paper or bubble wrap to prevent shifting during transit. Remember not to stack your records on top of each other as this can cause damage.
Before closing and sealing the box, place another layer of protective materials on top of the records. A sheet of bubble wrap or cardboard will suffice. Secure the box with parcel tape and label it with what’s inside. We also recommend that you write ‘FRAGILE’ on the box so that you and your movers remember to move the box with extra care.
In addition to proper packaging, choosing the right mailer is also important. Look for mailers with corner padding and self-adhesive strips or cardboard stiffeners attached to the box and bubble wrap. Avoid using flimsy envelopes or improvised cardboard mailers as they may not provide enough protection for your precious cargo.
By taking these steps, you can ensure that your vinyl records arrive at their destination in pristine condition, ready to be enjoyed by their new owner.
Choose The Right Shipping Carrier And Service
Choosing the right shipping carrier and service is crucial when it comes to shipping your turntable. You want to ensure that your package arrives on time and in good condition. There are several carriers to choose from, but not all of them offer the same level of service.
When it comes to shipping turntables, it’s important to choose a carrier that specializes in fragile and delicate items. Some carriers offer specialized services for shipping musical instruments and audio equipment. These services usually include extra protection, insurance, and tracking.
One popular carrier for shipping turntables is USPS Media Mail. This service is specifically designed for shipping media items such as books, CDs, and vinyl records. The rates are affordable, and the service comes with a tracking number. However, it’s important to note that Media Mail has strict guidelines on what qualifies as a media item. Make sure to check if your turntable meets the requirements before choosing this service.
Another carrier to consider is UPS or FedEx. These carriers offer a range of shipping options, including expedited services for urgent shipments. They also offer insurance options to protect your package in case of damage or loss during transit.
When choosing a carrier and service, make sure to compare rates and services offered by different carriers. Look for carriers that have experience in shipping fragile items and have a good track record of delivering packages on time and in good condition.
In conclusion, choosing the right shipping carrier and service is crucial when it comes to shipping your turntable. Take the time to research and compare different carriers and services to ensure that your package arrives safely at its destination. Remember to pack your turntable securely and label your package as fragile to minimize the risk of damage during transit.
