Packing suggestions (was Re: PDP11 Redux, or Behind-The-Scenes Bull)

On Sat, 23 Feb 2002, Sellam Ismail wrote: What he said, plus a couple of additions: If, like me, you have a closet full of collapsed cartons, you can easily cut interlocking "log-house" spacers from heavy-gauge corrugated board. Remember that a simple "X" form will collapse EVERY time. A "#" form -- two spacers each way -- is the minimum. Also, slot, not slit, the interlocks. Cut a gap the width of the cardboard's thickness instead of just slicing it. For very heavy items, and done right, this is even better than bubble wrap. It also works to position and hold very irregular shapes. The ultimate packing material is plastic garbage bags and aerosol styrofoam. Bag the shipped item, and seal it with tape. Put an empty garbage bag in the carton, and spray enough foam into the bag to build a 3" bed. Let it set till firm but not solid, or use ~3" spacer blocks to support the item. Set it on the foam bed. Put a bag at each corner and on top, fill with foam, close **** and weight **** the lid. The aerosol styrofoam expands and fills in gaps and crannies, effectively making a custom fitted crate. It's relatively very expensive, but if you're shipping very valuable and/or fragile hardware, it's much better than anything else I know. Plus, if you're going to move the item repeatedly, the packing, with reasonable care, will last three or four moves. I got started doing Linux/AIX classes by going around Texas & Louisiana setting up, tearing down and shipping RS6k classrooms. I never lost a part to damage. Doc