Having phonograph items collected from auctions in UK

[kirtley2012]

I've seen a phonograph horn I'd like to replace mine in an auction somewhere near Birmingham I think, so the distance for collection is my problem, has anyone got experience having things collected from auctions and delivered?

[epigramophone]

Some auction firms offer postage and packing (at a price) whilst some others will recommend carriers local to them, but most expect the buyer to collect in person. I would be reluctant to trust a horn to anyone who did not come well recommended for transporting delicate items.

[Steve]

I've literally bought dozens of horn gramophones (some costing thousands of pounds) from France, Spain, Germany, USA, Switzerland, Belgium, Netherlands, let alone Birmingham! If the person packing is sensible there shouldn't be any problems.Ive had a few mishaps but generally with careful packing and decent couriers things arrive looking the same as they left.