I thought that I would share the procedure that I use to double-box a breakable item for shipment. Please feel free to copy my procedure. (I'm sure many eBuyers would be happy if you did!!)

Here's an antique radio that is pretty heavy. (8# 12)

1. The first thing that I do is to seal it inside a large clean plastic bag. This keeps the styrofoam dust out of the inside.

2. Then I form a cardboard box so that it is 2" larger in all directions than the physical size of the radio. This is the "INNER" box. A 2" base of styrofoam peanuts is placed at the bottom.

3. Set the radio (inside the plastic bag) onto the base of peanuts leaving room for packing on all sides.

4. Fill all void spaces with styrofoam peanuts. (really "jam" them in.)

5. Cover the top with an additional covering of peanuts. Tape the box closed. The radio is now safely packed inside the "INNER" box.

6. Next step, Find (or make) another box that's 2" larger in all directions than the "INNER" box. This will be the "OUTER" box. Again, place a 2" base of peanuts in the bottom.

7. Set the "INNER" box onto the base of peanuts, directly in the center of the "OUTER" box. Fill all void spaces with styrofoam peanuts. (Really "jam" them in)

8. Add another 2" topping of styrofoam peanuts ... close and tape the box shut.

9. Add a shipping lid. The "OUTER" box is now ready to weigh and ship.

In effect, the breakable item is now protected with 2 layers of cardboard and 4" of styrofoam peanuts. I've shipped items to France, Italy, Netherlands, Canada and Thailand without a damage report EVER.

This procedure cost me $1.25 in supplies and 45 minutes of my time. I charge accordingly. For this particular item, I am charging an additional $2.50 for packaging. I point out this extra charge in my listing. No surprises.