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

From: Doc <doc_at_mdrconsult.com>
Date: Sat Feb 23 16:52:28 2002

On Sat, 23 Feb 2002, Sellam Ismail wrote:

> That's all I can think of for now. Input and suggestions from other
> folks experienced in the art of packing would be appreciate. I think I'll
> formalize the result and make an official ClassicCmp HOWTO out of it.

  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
Received on Sat Feb 23 2002 - 16:52:28 GMT