Wooden instruments can be sensitive to significant changes in temperature and humidity. Pack the guitar carefully and allow it time to acclimatize after arrival before opening the case or making adjustments.
Whether you're sending a guitar to a customer, a repair shop or your next gig, there's one priority: getting it there in the same condition it left. Knowing how to ship a guitar properly starts with protecting its most vulnerable parts and preventing movement in transit.
And the same principle applies when shipping musical instruments more broadly. From guitars and drums to amps and brass instruments, careful packing can make all the difference. Here’s what to know.
How to ship a guitar: seven top tips
- Use a strong instrument case in good condition – preferably a hardshell case that offers protection against knocks and pressure.
- Loosen the strings before packing – reduce the tension without completely detuning them.
- Use plenty of protective packaging – cushion the instrument so it cannot move inside its case.
- Choose the right-sized outer box – too much empty space gives the case room to shift.
- Label every package clearly – make sure your shipping label is securely attached and easy to scan.
- Protect the value of your instrument – consider appropriate shipment protection for valuable equipment.
- Choose fast, trackable shipping – reducing time in transit and knowing where your instrument is can provide extra peace of mind.
Why packing a guitar properly matters
Guitars combine a large, relatively light body with several delicate components. The neck is one of the biggest potential failure points: if it can flex or move inside the case, an impact to the package can turn into a break.
DHL Express knows a thing or two about transporting valuable instruments. As official logistics partner for The Rolling Stones' Unzipped exhibition, DHL transported instruments including guitars belonging to Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood. DHL also works with Thomann, one of Europe's largest musical-equipment retailers, shipping instruments to customers around the world. If some of rock's most treasured instruments can travel with DHL Express, yours will be in experienced hands too.
Types of guitar cases you can use
One of the best ways to ship a guitar is in its protective case. Here are two common types of cases you can use:
Hardshell cases
Hardshell cases are the preferred option for shipping a guitar due to their superior protection. They are typically made of wood or molded plastic and feature a rigid outer shell that can withstand impact and pressure. It is strongly recommended to use a hardshell case from a reputable brand like Gator, Peli or a case made by the guitar brand itself. Cheaper cases may not provide adequate protection and can be easily damaged during transit.
Soft cases
Soft cases, also known as gig bags, are lighter and more portable than hardshell cases. They are usually made of padded nylon or polyester and offer some protection against minor bumps and scratches. However, they are not as durable as hardshell cases and are more susceptible to damage during shipping. Soft cases are best suited for local transportation or when additional protection is not a major concern. If you're shipping a guitar over a long distance or through multiple carriers, it's strongly recommended to use a hardshell case for optimal protection.
What you need to pack a guitar for shipping
Before you start, gather:
- A double-walled corrugated outer box
- Packing paper or bubble wrap
- Strong packing tape
- Suitable neck support
- A separate bag for loose parts
Choosing a guitar shipping box
Good guitar shipping boxes should be strong enough to protect both the instrument and its case. Allow approximately 6 cm (2.36 inches) between the case and outer packaging for cushioning.
Purpose-made guitar shipping systems are another option. Aeris, for example, makes kits for acoustic and electric guitars using purpose-designed boxes and inflatable supports to restrict movement.
Materials to avoid
Avoid newspaper or other inked paper that could transfer onto the guitar's finish, and don't reuse a box that has become soft, crushed or weakened. Seal the outer box with proper packing tape rather than masking or movers' tape.
How to pack a guitar for shipping
1. Prepare the guitar
Slightly slacken the strings to reduce tension (rather than detuning them completely.) Remove the whammy bar and secure other movable parts separately. If the guitar has a trapeze-style tailpiece, wrap/protect it so it cannot move against and scratch the body.
2. Make sure your instrument cases are in good condition
A strong case gives an extra layer of protection inside the packing crate. A top tip from Rasmus Bom Andersen, lead singer with heavy metal stalwarts, Diamond Head: “Use military grade SKB cases, or, if transporting several instruments, then Enki cases, Scott Dixon or Quantum Industries are the go-to brands for safety."
3. Secure the guitar inside the case
Line the hard case with bubble wrap to cushion the guitar. Then wrap the entire guitar in bubble wrap, paying special attention to the neck which will need extra support.
Avoid forcing cushioning underneath an angled headstock, as this can create additional leverage if the package receives an impact. Similarly, don't over-pack around the neck joint of a bolt-on guitar.
Pack capos, tremolo arms and other loose accessories separately.
4. Pack the case in an outer box
Place the secured case inside an outer box, leaving around 6 cm (2.36 inches) for cushioning. Fill the surrounding space with packing peanuts or similar so the case cannot slide around, then seal the box securely with packing tape and attach the shipping label clearly.
Avoid black outer packaging, which can cause problems with DHL Express' automated sorting equipment.
5. Check your work: the shake test
Before shipping, gently lift and shake the closed case and then the packed box. Hear or feel something moving? Open it back up and add or adjust the cushioning until everything stays securely in place.
Finally, measure and weigh the finished parcel, ready to request your shipping quote.
How to ship a guitar without a case
A hardshell case is the safer option, but if one isn't available, extra protection becomes particularly important.
Start with a strong double-walled corrugated box and wrap the guitar thoroughly, making sure it cannot touch the sides of the box. Support the neck carefully and protect the body, while avoiding excessive pressure beneath an angled headstock.
Fill every void so the guitar cannot shift. For additional protection, consider double boxing: place the protected guitar inside one box, then cushion that box inside a slightly larger second box.
Once packed, perform the shake test before sealing everything securely and adding any required labels.
How to ship a guitar amp and other large equipment
Amps and speaker cabinets bring a different challenge: weight. A large amp may require a two-person lift, so assess its weight before attempting to move or pack it.
Remove detachable parts where possible and secure anything that could move. Castors, handles and other protruding components need particular protection because they can catch or take the force of an impact.
Astro-pack foam is useful for protecting an amplifier because it is lightweight, non-abrasive and shock-absorbing. Wrap the equipment securely, add bubble wrap, then place it in a strong box with sufficient cushioning to prevent movement. For fragile equipment, double boxing can add another protective layer.
Add a “This Way Up” label alongside the shipping label.
For particularly large or heavy amplifiers and cabinets, standard parcel shipping may no longer be appropriate. Depending on the packed dimensions and weight, the equipment may need to be crated or secured to a pallet instead. DHL Express' precise size and weight limits vary by shipping method and market, so check them before booking.
How much does it cost to ship a guitar?
There's no single answer, because several factors determine the price:
- Dimensional weight: a boxed guitar is relatively light for its size, so the space it occupies can influence the charge.
- Distance and destination: longer and more complex international routes can affect the price.
- Service level: faster or time-definite services may cost more.
- Value protection: additional shipment protection can add to the cost.
- Duties and taxes: international shipments may attract charges at destination.
- Size and weight: large amps and cabinets may attract additional charges.
Dimensional weight considers the space a parcel occupies as well as its actual weight. So, measure and weigh your fully packed shipment, not the bare guitar, before requesting a quote.
What is the best and safest way to ship a guitar?
If safety and speed are your top priorities, express shipping is the best way to ship a guitar. With faster delivery times, your instrument spends less time in transit, which also minimizes the risk of damage. So, while it may cost a little more, the peace of mind and added protection make it well worth the investment.
Customs documentation for shipping instruments internationally
When shipping musical instruments internationally, you'll typically need a Commercial Invoice with a precise description – for example, the instrument type, make, model and whether it's new or used – plus its declared value and correct HS code. These details help customs authorities classify the goods and calculate any applicable duties and taxes.
How to ship other musical instruments
Shipping stringed instruments
One of the most important things when shipping guitars, violins, cellos, or any other stringed instruments, is to loosen the strings before packing. This is because the temperature may fluctuate during the journey, meaning the strings could tighten up and snap.
Shipping drums
Most drums don’t have cases, so it’s best to cover them in several layers of bubble wrap before putting them into the packing box or crate. You’ll need the right sized box for each one, so there isn’t too much room for movement.
If you’re sending more than one drum, you can remove the heads and hoops of the big drums and nest the small ones inside, along with crumpled newspaper or cloth as padding. Then replace the heads and tape them securely. Use a separate bag for small parts.
If you’re sending a whole drum kit, you’ll need to break it down, removing the legs and taking the rack tom stand apart. Wrap the rack tom parts and place them inside the kick drum, filling in the gaps with crumpled newspaper so they don’t move around.
Shipping brass instruments
As trumpets, trombones, horns, tubas and other brass instruments have several removable parts, dismantle them where appropriate and wrap each part separately in bubble wrap. If you’re also shipping the instrument case, wrap this separately for protection before placing everything securely inside the packing crate.
Shipping wind instruments
Wind instruments such as flutes, clarinets, saxophones and oboes can be packed in their cases. Cover both the instrument inside the case and the case itself in bubble wrap for protection and shock absorption, taping it securely. If you’re shipping your instrument without a case, then wrap it in several layers of bubble wrap before it goes into the packing crate.
Always insure your instruments
Valuable instruments deserve appropriate protection. DHL Express offers Shipment Insurance for eligible shipments, alongside end-to-end tracking. Make sure the value stated when arranging cover is consistent with the value declared on your Commercial Invoice for an international shipment.
Shipping instruments and equipment with batteries
Wireless systems, effects pedals, guitars with active pickups and some portable amplifiers may contain batteries. Lithium batteries are classified as Dangerous Goods and can be subject to specific acceptance, packing and documentation requirements, including when installed inside equipment. Check the requirements before shipping battery-powered gear internationally.
FAQs About How to Ship a Guitar
Yes – slacken them slightly to reduce tension, but there's generally no need to make them completely loose.
If your guitar is damaged during shipping, contact DHL Express promptly. The compensation available will depend on the service and protection selected for the shipment.
DHL Express offers time-definite international shipping across more than 220 countries and territories, with next-possible-business-day delivery available on many routes and services. Full tracking lets you follow your guitar throughout its journey
It's generally better to pack a guitar and amplifier separately: the amp's weight could damage the much more fragile instrument if either item moves in transit. Separate packaging also makes it easier to provide the right level of cushioning and protection for each item.
Bands as big as the Rolling Stones and Coldplay trust DHL Express to carry their instruments around the world. And that same shipping expertise is ready to help you, too. Open a DHL Express Business Account for fast and reliable international shipping – with full tracking from door to door.
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