Originally Posted by
gugie
A box runs about zero dollars from the cardboard recycling in the back of most LBS's. Or just walk into a store that sells a lot of bikes and ask for a bike box. They'd probably be happy to give you one, since it's one less to take out back.
I packed one for a forum member once and charged a minimum fee, had them email the bikeflights tag to me. I can box a bike properly in about 30 minutes if I have the right size box and dropout spacers.
But an LBS has to make money somewhere, can't knock 'em for that.
Unfortunately there are several shops in my area who want $5-$10 dollars for a box. They tried to charge me and I asked if they wouldn't reconsider as it would impact whether I ever came back into the shop. They didn't and I have not been back. Drove a little further to get the box, but I will be back at the second shop. Some people are short sighted.