Packing built models for transport to shows

[Paul Payne]

Any tips, techniques, etc. you might want to share- will be attempting to transport a larger than usual model (actually models). The bout can be removed and set on a display stand.

Edited October 30, 2022 by Paul Payne

[gotnitro?]

I use tubes from pipe insulation, those gray ones cut down for bumpers around the model. Micro fleece towels help cushion stuff too. Always take a quick fix package to shows , glue tweezers etc in case something pops off

[Paul Payne]

Amen to the quick fix pack, used more than once! I have cut up sweatshirt material and a lot of foam rubber, but just never tried to pack anything as large as the trailer and boat- will try a shallow storage tub since I don't have a clear container that large.

[Pete J.]

I have schlepped models all over the country, often flying, which is particularly risky because of aircraft vibration.  

Here are my rules.  

1.  Never let the wheels of a model support the weight of the model.  I always put a piece of foam under the model so the chassis is supporting the model and not the wheels.  Often I will cut a piece of foam to the outside dimensions of the carrying case ahd then then cut out holes for the wheels.  This is the bottom layer. 

2.  Once the base piece of foam is done, I secure the model with a piece of 1/2" to 3/4" super smooth ribbon.  The stuff is dirt cheap at the fabric store.  The piece is secured to the bottom foam with t-pins and the ribbon wrapped across the roof of the model and secured on the other side.  

3.  I get our my 1/2" pick and pluck foam.  This is foam that has been cut into squares that can easily be torn off to accommodated odd shapes.  You will often see it in things like Pelican cases to protect expensive camera gear.  I then pull apart  pieces with the exterior dimension the same as the container I am transporting the models in.  I remove sections that are just wide enough to clear the model.  The first layer is the one you create in rule 1.  The second surrounds the body of the model as closely as possible.  I allow places for things like rear view mirrors.  The top sheet is torn to remove only the foam to accommodate any model parts sticking above the middle layer layer like radio antennas or light bars.  

4.  Once this "model sandwich" is complete, I put it in the carrying container and put a lid on it.  Ideally,  the containers' lid will fit so there is light pressure on the foam.   Then it is time to go.  

Hope this helps.  

[espo]

I have only transported models locally so I can get by with something a little more basic. I got stackable carrying case at Wal Mart, and I'm sure they can be found else ware as well. They are 13" by 14" with slots inside with movable dividers to safely carry three models per level. The side catches for the lid will secure an additional level if you want to expand the stack. In my case I only go three units high giving room for 12 1/25th scale models. The Microfiber towels I use to wrap each model in, and the dividers cushions them from one another. Best price on the towels around here seems to be Costco. 

[Paul Payne]

Guys, thanks for the tips! Rally appreciate the input!

[bobthehobbyguy]

Here is a great way to pack a model especially if you are traveling by air.

[StevenGuthmiller]

56 minutes ago, bobthehobbyguy said:

Here is a great way to pack a model especially if you are traveling by air.

Wow!

That's nice!

But I can't see myself spending that much time on a box.

 

I usually use an upside down display case with some foam in the front and rear to help hold the model stationary, and wrap any loose parts in paper towels and either place them under the model, or along side.

I also often pack a separate small box with cotton cloths and layer my loose parts within.

 

This wouldn't be a good way to ship a model, but it works very well for transporting a couple hundred miles to a show by car.

I have yet to experience any broken parts or damaged paint.

 

 

 

 

 

Steve

[Matt Bacon]

Big flat polythene underbed storage box (24”x18”x 6” deep), sheet of inch thick expanded polystyrene cut to size in the bottom, then sharp toothpicks/cocktail sticks around each car to hold it in place. There are usually places where you can trap the solid parts between two or more sticks to stop any movement. Add soft foam below the chassis it you are worried about the wheels load bearing.

best,

M.

Edited November 23, 2022 by Matt Bacon

[Rich Chernosky]

Paul..  every  year in May I do  a model show at the  Watkins Glen Motor Racing Research Center.   I have 6 custom made display cases (only take 4)  and usually take about 60 models of various scales.  Below are two of the three cases I took last year.  You can see how they are packed. Those empty cigarette paper boxes hold the more delicate cars. I use latex foam and crushed up paper towel  to seperate them.  I take tools and glue to repair any thing plus some small zip loc baggies to store parts that fall  off.  I suffer very few casualties from the 35mi one way trip. I take these pictures of the cases loaded so after the show I can pack them back the same way. Its very effective and I have been doing it this way for close to 20yrs now.   Hope this helps.