Packing checklist

Protect the optics. Immobilize everything. Double-box it.

Use this checklist before shipping a telescope for service. If your instrument has unusual, oversized, or fragile parts, contact us before packing.

Wait for your label before shipping.Your prepaid FedEx label contains the exact ship-to address and will be sent to your checkout email. Texas drop-offs are by appointment; the private workshop address is provided after confirmation.
Capped telescope optical tube protected by a clean bag and fitted foam
1. Wrap and supportCap the optics, bag the tube, and surround it with firm foam.
Telescope immobilized with fitted foam inside a sturdy inner box
2. ImmobilizeFill every side of the inner box so nothing can shift.
Sealed inner box surrounded by cushioning inside a larger outer box
3. Double-boxFloat the sealed inner box inside a larger outer box.
Large instruments

Bulky Dobsonians and extra-long refractors

Contact us before packing either type. We will confirm carrier size limits and whether your particular instrument needs additional preparation.

Large Dobsonian optical tube protected in one box with the disassembled rocker base packed separately
Bulky DobsonianRemove the optical tube from the rocker base. Cap and cradle the tube horizontally; pack the disassembled base separately. Do not remove the primary mirror unless we specifically instruct you to.
Extra-long refractor supported by foam cradles at both ends and several points along the tube
Extra-long refractorRemove the finder, diagonal, rings, dovetail, and mount. Use rigid end protection plus several wide foam cradles so no long section of tube is unsupported.

1. Remove loose parts

  • Remove eyepieces, finder scopes, diagonals, counterweights, trays, batteries, and other detachable accessories.
  • Send only parts needed to reproduce the problem.
  • Bag and label any small required hardware.

2. Protect the optics

  • Install dust caps and secure them with low-tack painter's tape.
  • Never place tape directly on glass or coated optical surfaces.
  • Do not clean the optics immediately before shipping.

3. Immobilize the instrument

  • Lock moving axes only as the manufacturer recommends.
  • Wrap the telescope in a clean plastic bag, then use several inches of firm cushioning on every side.
  • Nothing should shift when the inner box is gently shaken.

4. Double-box

  • Place the cushioned telescope in a strong inner box with no empty space.
  • Float that box inside a second corrugated box with at least 2 inches of cushioning on every side.
  • Use new packing tape across every outer seam.

5. Label and document

  • Put your name, order number, email, and a brief issue description inside the inner box.
  • Photograph the instrument, accessories, inner packing, and sealed outer box.
  • Remove old shipping labels, attach the emailed FedEx label flat, and keep the drop-off receipt and tracking number.

Do not use these as primary cushioning

Loose packing peanuts, crumpled newspaper, towels, expanding foam applied near the instrument, or a case that allows the telescope to move. Do not ship counterweights attached to a mount.

Not sure your packing is safe? Send photos through the contact page before sealing the outer box. Include your order number.

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