Packing/Shipping Instructions & Videos | Robertson and Sons Violin Shop

Packing and Shipping Instructions & Videos

Identification & Preparation

Place a note in the case with your name and phone number
Print a return shipping label at your local UPS/FedEx store
Obtain a shipping box if the original was not saved
Take photos of the instrument from all angles, include serial number if possible. This can help if the instrument is damaged in shipping and you need to file a claim with UPS. If you are an approval customer, please still take photos of the instrument before shipping.
Watch the packing and shipping videos below

Shipping Requirements

Do NOT loosen strings on instruments
Do NOT ship instruments or bows in just the case/tube: must be in a box with peanuts
Insure for full value (rentals & purchases)
Rental Customers: Use FedEx Ground or UPS Ground
Approval Customers: Use FedEx 2-Day or UPS 2-Day

Violins / Violas

Place a roll of Bubble Wrap over the tailpiece (fine tuner area)
Wrap the scroll in Bubble Wrap so it fits snugly in the case
Lightly place a roll of Bubble Wrap or paper towel on each side of the bridge
Close and fasten the case
Place closed case in a box half-filled with Styrofoam peanuts
Set case on top of peanuts, then fill remaining space with peanuts until secure and will not move. Tape the box.
Insure instruments for the full value during shipping (Rentals and Purchased instruments only)
⚠ Ensure 2 inches of clearance between case and box sides
⚠ Do NOT Loosen the strings

⚠ INSTRUMENTS MAY ONLY BE SHIPPED IN A BOX FILLED WITH STYROFOAM PEANUTS. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO SHIP INSTRUMENTS IN THE CASE ALONE.

Cellos / Basses

Wrap the scroll in Bubble Wrap so it fits snugly in the case
Wrap the tailpiece (fine tuner area) with Bubble Wrap
Place a roll of Bubble Wrap or paper towel on each side of the bridge
Close and fasten the case
If in a soft case, wrap it in thick foam padding before boxing
Place case in a box half-filled with Styrofoam peanuts
Set case on top of peanuts, then fill remaining space with peanuts until secure and will not move. Tape the box.
Insure instruments for the full value during shipping
⚠ Ensure 2 inches of clearance between case and box sides
⚠ Do NOT Loosen the strings

⚠ INSTRUMENTS MAY ONLY BE SHIPPED IN A BOX FILLED WITH STYROFOAM PEANUTS. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO SHIP INSTRUMENTS IN THE CASE ALONE.

Bows

Loosen bow hair
Roll bow(s) in Bubble Wrap, making wrap longer than bow. Multiple bows: wrap together, alternating frogs and tips.
Place wrapped bow(s) in a PVC tube (no cardboard tubes)
Fold the ends of the Bubble Wrap over to keep the end of the bow from hitting the pipe. Don't force the bow into the tube. The fit should be snug, but not too tight.
Place PVC tube in a cardboard shipping box
Fill the box with Styrofoam peanuts
Insure bows for the full value during shipping (Rentals and Purchased instruments only)
⚠ Ensure 2 inches of clearance between tube and box sides
Tape box securely

⚠ BOWS MAY ONLY BE SHIPPED IN A TUBE & A BOX FILLED WITH STYROFOAM PEANUTS. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO SHIP BOWS IN THE TUBE ALONE.

Rental & Return Policy

Rental contract ends once instrument is returned in good condition
If an upgraded bow was requested, a rehair charge will apply if needed
If returned instrument requires repairs, charges will apply
If damage occurs during shipping, file a claim with UPS/FedEx (your photos will help)