Larry;
Here is a tip I use on all of my purchases, whether Ebay or private.
After the win, or purchase, I contact the seller, and get His/Her guarantee that they will pack according to my specifications. I even offer to pay extra for proper packing....BEFORE I PAY FOR THE ITEM............ I do not pay until they respond.
I had one guy initiate a non pay complaint, which I won, because I showed Ebay he did not respond to my requests.
D/P