styrofoam peanuts vs. bubble wrap

[weirdami]

Which is better for shipping an A3000: styrofoam peanuts or bubble wrap. Assume the following things...that the A3000 would protected from tiny styrofoam bits getting inside by a plastic bag...and that the space to be filled by packing material is of equal size for both material types. Let's say that the box is 6 inches taller and 6 inches wider and 6 inches longer than an A3000 (3 inches on each side) -- a rather substantial box, indeed.

Consider both national and international (overseas) shipping when giving your opinion.

Is there anything better to use than styrofoam peanuts or bubble wrap? I don't have an original type A3000 box, so that's out. But, I might agree that it would be the best thing.

[weirdami]

Do you think my box is too big? Can I get away with smaller, or is three inches of bubble wrap and peanuts just about right?

Or a combo, entirely wrap and seal the A3000 in super bubble wrap. Fill 5 inches of bottom of box with peanuts, lay in A3000, fill sides and top with peanuts?

Do you mean, instead of making a bubble ball out of the A3000, just cover it in one layer of super bubble wrap and fill the extra space with peanuts? I have loads of peanuts, and I'm sure I have enough for one layer of super bubble wrap. If you guys have good experiences with this method, I'll go with that. I needed a good excuse to get rid of all those peanuts. :-)
 

[weirdami]

@redrumload

That seems to be the consensus, more or less, in this thread. I'll do it. Styrofoam peanut cache be gone with ye! hehehe!

[weirdami]

@redrumloa

...this place may be worth the drive...

Mr. Box looks to be a bit of a drive, but it's a cool business idea. (I'm a fan of entrepreneurship. :-)) I've made a big honkin' box already, though, using old boxes. It's neat, like Frankenstein. :-)

Thanks everyone for the tips.

[weirdami]

then put those bags with air all around, instead of nasty nasty smelly smelly make a messy everywherey peanuts

If I hadn't ever seen those funky plastic bags with air in them, I'd wonder what you were on about. It's certainly a weird and genius idea. A simple, yet profitable product. :-)

Styrofoam peanuts aren't so bad. Just ask a cat! :lol:

[weirdami]

Would lots of old newspapers be alright for packing something like an Amiga 1000 for shipping? I'm out of peanuts and bubbles and newspapers are free.

[weirdami]

Try to imitate the way all the great companies, ships theyr heavy items.

I found some cool dark foam corner pieces being thrown out by one of the departments at a nearby college. They fit just right. Also saved money on a box. Recycling bins are a treasure trove! :-D