Hi - I have a friend who routinely ships his bike for big touring trips he does. He goes to whatever LBS happens to be around, they will often pack and ship it for you in a bike box at a cheaper (can you believe it?) rate than fed ex or UPS at their stores. If it was my bike, I would go to LBS and get a box and pack it myself and have them ship it. They often will ship it to a bike store wherever you are going and you can just pick it up there. I can get specific details from my friend if you are uber interested in this route.