I have sent many quilts to my son and his family in Florida......I generally pack each quilt in a plastic bag with and address of delivery and from me. And I usually send either FedEx or UPS as I can track them directly to the house and I can give that info to my kids so that one will be home to intercept. I also insure heavily and request a signature. I, too, use lots of tape. I think it keeps water out.....i.e. rain, snow. Knock on wood.....so far, no problems.......