Just returned from Wales
I am now back from my tour of Wales and had no problems with shipping the bike.
I used the top load method (that's what I call it) to pack it. Obtained a bike box from my LBS and (after some disassembling) lowered the bike down into the box. To secure the top flaps down I cut small slits (3) into the each side of the box about 12 inchs down from the top. I then took the straps (with snap buckles on the ends) and pushed them through the slits and brought the ends up over the top, fastening them. This allowed an inspector to open the top of the box and easily look into it.
On arriving in London there was no damage to the box and I was able to open the box and quickly look inside. Everything was fine.
For the return flight I was able to get a box from a LBS in Cardiff and used the same method. Again there was no problems when I arrived in Denver.
All your imput was very helpful. Thanks, Ken