Thanks for the thoughts -- comments below.

On 9/15/2017 9:14 AM, David Jensen wrote:
> FedEx offers ground service for large objects such as double manual
> harpsichords, though it is likely the instrument will be farmed off to a
> contracted carrier.   <snip>  Selected FedEx stores are capable of making double wall corrugated
> cardboard shipping boxes; expect a price around $150 upwards for that
> service.
Good to know this service is available.  For the price of their 
cardboard, I'd probably make my own wooden crate.
> I do not advise shipping an instrument in its cover inside the crate
> because it is very difficult top get the fit tight enough to prevent
> shifting.
Interesting.  I would have thought that using a cover was better, 
assuming it fits snugly and has drawstrings or buckles to fasten it.  I 
do realize the importance of packing around the (covered) instrument to 
avoid shifting.
> Also, contact your shipping firm to get their take on providing
> space on the box's bottom side for a forklift's tines, i.e., making the
> bottom surface like a shipping pallet. Different companies have different
> rules.
Thanks, would not have thought of this.
> An advantage of a wood crate is that it
> can be stored flat if it is completely taken apart.
I have space in my garage and would make the crate so that it can taken 
apart easily.

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