So you’re ready to achieve your lifelong childhood dream of owning a classic arcade game, or you're helping fulfill a fantasy for a loved one this holiday season. From Galaga to Street Fighter, there are a lot of questions to ask before you buy your new arcade machine—including how you will get it home safely. Good news: we have a few tips to help you find the right machine and ship it safely. And yes, we’d go with Galaga.
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There's a whole generation of adults who have loved vintage arcade games since they were kids and dream of owning one as an adult. Part of it is reliving childhood, and part of it is passing that love on to the next generation. Ever since the release of the acclaimed documentary, The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters, vintage arcade games have been back in a big way.
But how do you find a vintage arcade game, especially an affordable one? A good place to start is always eBay, because the selection of arcade games is always rotating and it can be a great place to locate rare finds. Vintage Arcade Superstore is also home to hundreds of popular vintage arcade games and pinball machines. If you’re looking for newer games, try BMI Gaming for its catalogue of updated and newer games. It might be a long shot, but with the rise of barcades, like Coin-Op in San Diego, you might even find a local hangout looking to make room for something new.
Finding the Most Popular Arcade Games
Being in the Internet age has its perks, and one of those is being able to find almost everything broken down into a list. It is important to note that the most popular arcade games of all time may not be the same as the highest-grossing arcade games.
The top five highest-grossing games include Donkey Kong, Street Fighter II, Street Fighter II: Championship Edition, Space Invaders, and, not surprisingly, Pac-Man. If you're looking for a classic arcade machine that will keep friends coming over, choosing one of these is a strong bet. However, finding one of the most popular arcade games will likely cost more because of higher demand. Fortunately, similar titles can still be easier to find, more affordable, and full of nostalgia, like Ms. Pac-Man or Mario Kart.
How to Ship an Arcade Machine
A classic arcade machine isn't your average FedEx or Postal Service shipment, so some planning is required. Since these games are essentially vintage electronics, you'll want to make sure your shipping company takes every necessary precaution to help it arrive safely.
A big part of the shipping cost will depend on how far the machine is traveling, so make sure to factor distance into your purchase. Also, be cautious with “free shipping” offers. With an item this large, heavy, fragile, and valuable, there may be hidden costs or shortcuts involved.
Your best solution is to work with a dedicated shipping company that can walk you through the shipping process. Naturally, Navis Pack & Ship is experienced with items that are large, fragile, awkward, or valuable, making us a smart place to start.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shipping Arcade Machines
Can arcade machines be shipped safely?
Yes. Arcade machines can be shipped safely when they are properly prepared, protected, and transported through the right shipping method. Because arcade machines are large, heavy, and filled with electronic components, professional packing and freight coordination are often recommended.
What is the best way to ship a vintage arcade machine?
The best way to ship a vintage arcade machine is usually through a specialty shipping or freight provider. The machine should be protected against vibration, impact, shifting, and moisture during transit.
Do arcade machines need to be crated?
Many arcade machines benefit from custom crating, especially if they are vintage, high-value, fragile, or traveling a long distance. Crating can provide added protection for the cabinet, screen, controls, and internal electronics.
How much does it cost to ship an arcade machine?
The cost to ship an arcade machine depends on the machine’s size, weight, pickup location, destination, packing needs, and shipping method. Long-distance shipments and machines requiring custom packing or crating will typically cost more.
Can Navis Pack & Ship help with arcade machine pickup and shipping?
Yes. Many Navis Pack & Ship locations can assist with pickup, professional packing, crating, freight coordination, and delivery for arcade machines and other large electronics.
Armed with all this new knowledge, now it's time to go out and purchase your first machine. Which game have you had your eye on?
