If possible, always use the original box and packing. We see more turntables damaged in shipment than any other component.

Never apply self adhesive tape to the finished surfaces of any unit.

Pack all units such that nothing will rub another item. Constant rubbing, possibly for a period of days during transit, will damage the finish.

In general we find that professional movers do not understand how to pack turntables.

These suggestions are generic, each turntable is different. Follow as many suggestions below as possible and hand carry the unit.

• Many models have removable outer platters (where the record sits) that are not attached. Remove the outer platter and pack it separately. Unless the outer platter is firmly attached, it will detach during shipment and damage the arm. Do not ship the unit with the main bearing exposed to dust.

• Immobilize the suspension. Most units with compliant suspensions have some sort of transport lock. Transport locks take many forms from removable screws or inserts, to levers, or captive screws.

• If possible, remove the headshell and counterweight from the arm because if the unit is dropped, the counterweight will bend the arm.

• Immobilize the arm.

• Pack the cartridge such that nothing can touch the stylus.

At this point nothing should move when the unit is jostled. If anything can move, shipping damage is likely. Assume the unit will be turned upside down and dropped at least two feet by the handlers.

• Bang & Olufsen turntables use an adhesive anti-resonance compound between the outer and inner platters. While this compound can make separation difficult, it is not sufficient to hold them together during shipment. One must remove the outer platter and pack it separately. Protect the adhesive anti-resonance pads with a sheet of plastic.

• All B&O turntables have transport screws. Some models have transport screws under the platter, on other models the screws are on the underside. Do not turn the unit upside down until it is ready for transport. Be careful to turn the correct screw. On most models the transport screws are large enough to be operated with a coin. The inner platter must be locked or blocked in place.

• The arm counterweight must be removed or supported during shipment. Note that the round counterweights on Bang & Olufsen turntables are not removable. The only safe solution for these units is the original foam blocks. The arm must be supported above and below at the counter weight and at the cartridge end. Without proper support, non-repairable arm damage is guaranteed.

Small and relatively light items should be enclosed in plastic then packed in Styrofoam beads. If the units are being hand carried, wrap them in cloth towels or blankets.

Most compact disc players may be packed like cassette decks, however some units have transport locks. If so, these locks must be used. Remove compact discs and multiple disc magazines. Some changers require the user to execute a program sequence to prepare the unit for shipping.

Power amplifiers and other heavy items require special consideration. Heavy items will crush Styrofoam beads. Special dense foam blocks are available. The units should be supported along the edges with extra support under the power transformer. Take care not to have any of the weight supported by protruding knobs or terminals.

Speakers are difficult to ship without the original box. They should be supported only at the edges. No weight should be borne by the grill. Nothing should touch the drivers. Supply extra protection at the corners. Packing the grills separately is sometimes helpful.