Your model deserves a first-class flight.
Professional packaging and secure shipping for sailboats, jets and classic cars.
Shipping an airplane in a parcel often causes many model builders to break out in a cold sweat. And rightly so: delicate balsa wood constructions, sensitive servos, and expensive turbines don't tolerate rough handling by logistics providers. This guide will show you how to pack your model airplane safely, what shipping costs to expect, and how to avoid legal pitfalls regarding LiPo batteries.
The 3 pillars of secure shipping
| Phase | Focus | Most important tip |
| Disassembly | Volume reduction | Always remove the wings and tail assembly. |
| upholstery | Protection of the structure | Bubble wrap is good, but polystyrene fixing is better. |
| cardboard packaging | External stability | Use double-wall corrugated cardboard (BC-flute). |
Why the right packaging is crucial when shipping models
Damage during transport is not only financially frustrating, but often emotionally painful, especially when hundreds of hours of construction have gone into a model. Standard parcel services use automated sorting systems where packages must withstand drops from heights of up to one meter. Model building mail order It therefore requires more than just a simple cardboard box.
The 5 golden rules for safe RC shipping
1. Complete disassembly for minimal girth
Never ship a model fully assembled. Disassemble the wings, horizontal and vertical stabilizers, and propeller. This not only reduces the risk of leverage effects during impacts but also saves on shipping costs by using a smaller package. girth measurement Massive shipping costs.
2. The “box-in-box” method
The model should be secured inside an inner cardboard box, which in turn sits inside a sturdy, double-walled outer cardboard box (BC-flute). The space between them, at least 5 cm in diameter, should be filled with cushioning material (crumpled paper or bubble wrap).
3. Fixation instead of loose padding
A common mistake: "embedding" the model in polystyrene chips. With vibrations, the heavy model shifts downwards and rests directly on the cardboard wall. The solution: Secure the fuselage firmly to the inner cardboard box using foam blocks or polystyrene supports so that it cannot move even a millimeter.
4. Protection of sensitive components
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Rudder horns & linkages: Wrap them in foam so they don't puncture the cardboard.
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Canopy: Wrap separately in soft fleece to avoid scratches from vibrations.
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Antennas: Move in or dismantle.
5. Photo documentation for the insurance company
Document the model's condition and each packaging step with photos. This is the only way to protect yourself against damage claims from service providers such as... DHL, Hermes or GLS a chance of receiving compensation.
Checklist: Before sealing
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[ ] All fluids (fuel) drained?
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[ ] Are the batteries at storage voltage and secured?
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[ ] Is the "top" marker clearly visible?
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[ ] Insurance value checked (standard often only up to €500)?
Important note: Document the packaging process with photos. This is your most important evidence should the parcel service handle the shipment too roughly.
Shipping providers compared: bulky goods or standard items?
The choice of provider depends primarily on the length of the wings. Here is an overview of the most common tariffs:
| Offerer | Maximum dimensions (standard) | Special feature in model making |
| DHL | 120 x 60 x 60 cm | Insured up to €500, bulky goods surcharge applies for lengths over 120 cm. |
| GLS | Girth < 300 cm | Often cheaper for long packages (e.g., sailboat hulls). |
| DPD | Girth < 300 cm | Good shipment tracking, but strict about maximum dimensions. |
| carrier | Over 200 cm long | Necessary for large models or jets on pallets. |
Pay attention to the transport insurance. Many standard packages are only insured up to €500. For a jet worth €5.000, additional insurance is absolutely essential.
Dangerous goods warning: Shipping LiPo batteries and fuel
The shipment of Lithium polymer batteries (LiPos) It is subject to strict safety regulations (ADR).
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Built-in device: Batteries that are permanently installed in the model are easier to ship (UN3481).
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Individual batteries: They must be specially marked and often declared as dangerous goods.
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Storage condition: Always ship batteries on Bearing tension (approx. 3,8V per cell), never fully charged or deeply discharged.
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Internal combustion engines: Tanks must be completely emptied and rinsed with methylated spirits to eliminate the smell of gasoline and the risk of fire.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
How do I pack long wings safely?
How do I pack long wings safely?
Use two nested cardboard boxes to adjust the length. Pad the ends (winglets) especially well, as this is where most of the energy is absorbed in the event of an impact.
What are the costs for oversized items such as model airplanes?
What are the costs for oversized items such as model airplanes?
DHL charges an additional €20–30 for bulky goods service on top of the parcel price. This is often cheaper than damage during transport due to boxes that are too small.
Can I simply send polystyrene models (foam wafers) like that?
Can I simply send polystyrene models (foam wafers) like that?
No, foam models in particular get pressure marks easily. Wrap them in soft paper before using bubble wrap, as the bubbles in the wrap can leave indentations in the foam.
What insurance coverage amount do I need for my model airplane?
What insurance coverage amount do I need for my model airplane?
The standard insurance offered by parcel services like DHL is usually... €500If the value of your model (including electronics, servos and drive) exceeds this amount, you should definitely take out a Transport insurance up to €2.500 or €25.000 Add it on. Without this additional insurance, you'll be stuck with the difference in case of damage.
Do I need to send the transmitter (remote control) separately?
Do I need to send the transmitter (remote control) separately?
It is recommended to pack the transmitter in its own small box inside the main package. Make sure that the Sticks They are protected by a protective cap or foam to prevent mechanical damage to the potentiometer. Ideally, you should remove the batteries to prevent accidental activation.
How do I ship a model with a permanently installed combustion engine?
How do I ship a model with a permanently installed combustion engine?
The engine must be completely drained. We recommend sealing the carburetor and exhaust port with an oil-resistant plug or tape. To prevent odors from developing at the parcel center (which could lead to the shipment being stopped), additionally wrap the engine in a... sturdy plastic bag .
What do I do if there is no suitable box available for my RC?
What do I do if there is no suitable box available for my RC?
For large glider fuselages or wings, you can "telescope" two sturdy cardboard boxes, i.e., slide them inside each other and secure them firmly with duct tape. Alternatively, bicycle shops often offer large cardboard boxes that can be easily cut to size for shipping model kits.
May I use "Caution: Glass" tape?
May I use "Caution: Glass" tape?
Yes, but don't rely on it. In automated distribution centers, this belt is often ignored. It serves more as a... Documentation of your proof of due diligence in relation to the insurance company. More important is the "Top" marking (arrow symbols) to ensure the model is not transported on its back.
How do I ship sensitive turbine jets?
How do I ship sensitive turbine jets?
For turbine models, we strongly recommend shipping in a Wooden box (plywood) on a disposable pallet. Since the turbine is extremely sensitive to impacts, the model should be screwed to frames inside the box, instead of just lying in padding material.
What to do in case of transport damage.
What to do in case of transport damage.
If the package is visibly damaged, have the delivery person acknowledge this immediately or refuse acceptance. If the damage is only visible after unpacking: Photograph everything immediately (Cardboard from all sides, padding, damage to the model) and report the damage in writing to the shipping service provider within 7 days.
