I've used FedX ground on my own and through bikeflights over the past few years. Have used cardboard boxes, soft cases, and hard cases. FedX handling is brutal.....highly recommend not using a cardboard box and only using a hardcase. Bikeflights is great to use....offers good pricing....and settled quickly on my insurance claim for damage to my P5 the one and only time I tried using the Scicon Aerotech soft case. My Scicon Evolution hardcase protected my bike but after about 13-14 shipments became unusable because of broken wheels and locks caused by FedX ground handling. The home to hotel shipping is very convenient and bikeflights costs are a lot cheaper than airlines. Not really familiar with the Biknd but if you use, highly recommend using lots of bubble wrap and padding. I just bought the Premier Tactical hardcase and will use for the first time in a couple months using bikeflights for shipping from Philly to Miami.

I never thought about throwing a FedEx sticker on a typical soft-shell case. Anyone else tried that w/ luck?

I used BikeFlights last year for one event and would use them again - far cheaper than my own FedEx rates.

I ship my armored Hen House and wheel case all the time with bikeflights. FedEx doesn't bat an eye, they have a special label backing that wraps around the handles.

Prices are pretty reasonable, no more/less than any other bike shipping.

I am considering the Buxum Box as well for travel which seems easier than the Hen House packing, but absolutely no complaints with the Hen House, Bikeflights, and Fedex.

I've used bikeflights many times. I've never found better rates. I've used both cardboard boxes from my local bike shop and also a trico bike case that I picked up for cheap. Never had a problem, but I've only shipped 5 or 6 times.

For what it's worth, I got an Orucase at the beginning of last year and use it whenever I fly with my road bike. It requires more disassembly (like the Ruster), and I'd never attempt it with my TT bike. But, I've never been dinged for the oversized/bike fee. I throw my wheels in a hard case when I fly.

nothing positive to add ....but there does seem to be something odd about United being a sponsor of USA Cycling and being a carrier with a non-cyclist friendly shipping policy

Yeah, that one is stupid. United has about the worst bike policy. It'd be nice if USAC members got a bike fee waiver or something.

I shipped from East to West US several times last year with BikeFlights/FedEx. They are tough on cases. I have been using a CratWorks corrugated plastic case. The bike has been fine but the case is beat up. I think having straps makes things worse. Workers can grab the straps and sling or drag. My buddy used a bigger Thule case, which is probably more protection, but he paid about double my shipping since it was over sized.

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"Remember: a bicycle is an elegant and efficient tool designed for seeking out and defeating people who aren't as good as you."

--BikeSnobNYC