Mailing Bike Frames
 

How do you mail bike a frame/fork if you don't have a bike box? Can you buy them? Do bike stores give them to you or can you pick them out of their trash? Looking for a inexpensive option. Thanks!

Sometimes a local store like Pak & Mail may have the boxes in stock as well as the proper wrapping to ship a bike. I'd check that direction, but keep your BS detectors activated and make sure its packed properly (every part wrapped securely for example to prevent scratches/dings in transit.)

Local shop
 

Almost all local shops have boxes kicking around. Maybe ask in advance so they save you a good one. Also try to get those plastic parts that are placed in the drop outs. Very help in case your bike gets tossed around.

Trek has frame specific boxes, if you have a dealer around they might toss you one.

My LBS throws them out in huge piles. In springtime most well stocked LBS's don't have enough storage space to keep all the boxes in the store. Just try asking. Go into the store and say I was thinking about buying one of your new bikes. I have to sell my old ride first. Can I buy a frame box from you? They will probably give it to you. Good luck

Tim