I've been on auto ship since the end of 2001. For about a year my auto ship came in from Ohio. I then switched to a lower auto ship number from Oregon in the latter part of 2002.

I've been on auto ship for roughly five years and the only damage I have experienced is on the Alpena HL. The damage was the area where the very back edge of the sail connects to the stern of the boat. Probably a small dab of super glue would reattach the piece, but I just left it alone.

I sincerely believe that damage to new pieces occurs at the dealer with improper handing. I remember watching sales clerks handling pieces I bought from displays back in the past. Some had the motto, "If it's stuck, force it; if it breaks, it needing to be fixed anyways."

Personally, I think the styrofoam molds was the best packaging to ever happen to Harbour Lights. They serve their purpose very well when the HL is put in the mold the exact way it was suppose to be.

Bob