My guide is a simple trick that I learned about packing recently. It does not replace the Craigslist Searching for recycled packing peanuts, bubble wrap and boxes but is a big, inexpensive help. Again, it is simple: Purchase large sheets of styrofoam which is easier than one may think. I am fortunate to have both a Lowes and Home Depot near to me and assume that most home improvement stores carry it. It seems to be sort of way in the back in the most obscure of places. One store carries Giant sheets and the other carries both Giant Sheets and smaller sheets from 3/4 thick to 4 inch thick. It is really light, easy to carry to the register and easy to cut. I use a sharp knife to cut a line in one side and then "Snap" and re-cut but I see that eBay has several sellers offering Styrofoam Cutters ranging from really cheap to a couple hundred bucks.
When cut, the Styrofoam makes a nice little box that is easily taped into a square or rectangle to help protect that wonderful item that you just sold. I am personally really surprised at how cheap, easy and clean it is and there is no better insurance on a package than taking a little extra time to pack it properly.
)
