Private slot-machine ownership is a legal and practical question before it is a decorating decision. Laws can distinguish possession, sale, transport and operation, and an antique exception in one jurisdiction may not exist in another.
1. Secure doors and loose parts
Lock or strap every service door that is meant to stay closed, remove or immobilize loose trays and accessories, and bag small hardware so vibration cannot turn it into a projectile inside the cabinet. Photograph how the machine was secured before wrapping or crating.
2. Protect displays and glass
Keep pressure off touchscreens, glass and decorative toppers. Use rigid protection plus padding rather than wrapping film directly against fragile surfaces, and follow model-specific instructions before removing any display or glass panel for shipment.
3. Use a pallet or crate
Plan the move as a heavy-appliance job. Know the actual loaded weight, keep the cabinet stable, protect controls and doors, use adequate help and secure the machine in the vehicle so one hard stop cannot turn a collectible into a repair project.
4. Document condition
Take timestamped photographs of every side, the serial label, glass or display, controls and any existing damage immediately before pickup. Repeat the inspection before signing for delivery so a freight claim has a clear before-and-after record.
5. Confirm liftgate
Shipping risk belongs in the purchase decision. Get packed dimensions and weight, confirm who is responsible for crating and insurance, and document the cabinet immediately before dispatch and again before signing for delivery.
6. Insure freight
Confirm the carrier’s declared-value terms, exclusions and claim procedure before the pallet leaves. Make sure the coverage fits a used collectible machine, keep the bill of lading and packing photos, and do not discard crating until any damage window has closed.
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