1. Where do you prefer to buy packing supplies (boxes, bubblewrap, peanuts, etc)? Or do you prefer to let the courier pack it for you?
I get mine from
Papermart. The have a lot of packing stuff. I always pack the stuff I send myself. If you want it done right, do it yourself. lol.
2. Which courier service do you use to ship valuables domestically/internationally?
Domestically, I use UPS, USPS and FedEx, depending on the speed the stuff is needed.
Internationally, I have used freight forwarders for huge boxes, USPS for letters and some almost flat items and FedEx for important documents and larger boxes with fragile stuff.
3. Do you have more wisdom to impart?
Pack them well. Don't skimp on the packing stuff. I prefer bubble wrap vs packing peanuts or airbags. And reinforce boxes for stuff you don't want caving in or getting crushed. I have successfully sent a 32" LCD using a freight forwarder and it didn't get any damage. I've also sent a few dozen build model kits and the bubble wrap I used kept them safe.