Here are answers to some common questions.
When it comes to flying with guitars and other musical instruments, there are a few considerations to keep in mind for security and to avoid damage or theft:
1. Use a Hardshell Case: No matter what airline you choose, it is absolutely essential to use a hardshell case if you are bringing a guitar or other fragile instrument. This will provide the most protection against physical damage.
2. Hand Carry if Possible: If your guitar or instrument is small enough, you may be able to carry it on the plane as a carry-on item. This is the safest option because it allows you to maintain control of the instrument and ensure it is handled gently. However, this will be up to the discretion of the individual airline and may also depend on how full the flight is.
3. Check Airline Policies: Some airlines are more accommodating than others when it comes to musical instruments. It's a good idea to check the specific policies of the airlines you are considering. For example, some airlines may allow you to bring your guitar or instrument as a carry-on item, while others may require you to check it.
4. Buying an Extra Seat: If your instrument is particularly valuable or delicate, buying an extra seat for it may be a good option. This can be expensive, but it is the safest way to transport a large instrument. Again, you'll need to check with the airline to see if this is an option and how much it will cost.
5. Get Travel Insurance: This won't prevent theft or damage, but it can provide financial protection if something does happen to your instrument. Make sure the insurance policy covers damage and theft of musical instruments.
While it is difficult to determine which airline is the "most secure" as this can depend on a variety of factors including the individual staff on your particular flight, these steps can help ensure your instrument arrives safely at your destination. In general, it's a good idea to choose a reputable airline with good customer reviews and clear policies regarding musical instruments. Always call ahead to the airline to clarify their policies and to make any necessary arrangements for your instrument.
Shipping a guitar from Hawaii to the mainland United States can be done using several different shipping services, with USPS, UPS, and FedEx being the most commonly used.
For domestic shipping within the United States, USPS is often the cheapest option, especially for packages under 70 lbs. However, USPS may be less precise in tracking packages for accurate delivery date and time. On the other hand, UPS and FedEx are typically more expensive, but they provide a more precise delivery time, which is crucial if you're shipping an expensive item like a guitar and want to ensure someone is there to receive the package1.
When it comes to shipping from Hawaii, it's important to note that UPS and FedEx tend to categorize Hawaii shipping as an international shipment instead of domestic, and this attracts steep surcharges. USPS, therefore, is generally the most affordable option for shipping from Hawaii to the mainland, but this usually only applies if your package is under the 70 lb weight limit. For heavier packages, UPS might be a better choice given their 150 lb per parcel weight limit. The cost of shipping to the mainland from Hawaii would depend on several factors such as the size and weight of the guitar and the service class selected. FedEx is known for its overnight delivery services, which could be useful if you need a fast delivery service, but it's typically more expensive2.
For international shipping, if you need to ship a guitar out of the country, UPS and FedEx are usually the best choices as they operate in many countries around the world, providing a seamless global shipping and tracking process. USPS, on the other hand, would have to hand off the package to another courier service for international shipping, which can sometimes lead to complications with tracking the package1.
Moreover, packaging is a key factor when shipping guitars. It's recommended to pack the guitar in a way that it can withstand speed bumps in vehicles, accidental drops, and harsh weather conditions. You might need to consider insuring the guitar during shipment, especially if it's a valuable item1.
Finally, you could also consider using a service like ShipGuitars.com, which uses UPS for its deliveries and offers some benefits like getting a shipping quote, printing shipping labels through their website, and potentially saving money by using their "bulk discount"1.
I should note, however, that I couldn't find specific shipping rates for guitars from Hawaii to the mainland. The costs mentioned above are general estimates and actual costs could vary based on the specific dimensions and weight of the guitar and its case. It's recommended to get online estimates from each service to ensure you're getting the best price and service for your specific needs.
Please let me know if you have any other questions or need further assistance!
Have questions? We have answers
All Rights Reserved | Vintage Electric Guitars
Created by Liquid Light Designs & Marketing