just saw your post. ten years ago a friend and I sent our machines (Embroidery and sergers) via UPS in original boxes and styrofoam. Two of the machines arrived damaged, one beyond using for the classes. Even though they werre insured we had to deal with the "a sewing machine can't be worth much attitude". I would not shp or check my good machine, carry-on or rent one or buy a 2nd machine if possible. My machine was never the same. Good luck