Hi, I am going on my first loaded tour in august and have some basic logistical questions.

1) cheapest way to get bike from SF to Edmonton Canada.

--Has anyone shipped a bike into canada? I am hearing pretty expensive estimates for this.

If shipping is very expensive, I'll check the bike on the flight (will be pricy)

2) what do I do with my bike box? I am doing a point-to-point trip, flying out of a different destination.

--I can use a cardboard box, toss it in edmonton and get a new one at the end destination

--I have a conventional hardcase bike box. Has anyone had experience shipping this type of box ahead to another destination. Any suggestions on where to ship to and how to find someone to receive/store the box?

3) what do you do with your airplane luggage. I assume I need some sort of duffel bag to check my copious loaded touring luggage-- panniers, sleeping bags, etc. What do you do with the duffel bag? Ship it ahead, and if so any tips on who to find to receive/store it? Or toss it and buy a new one at the end destination.

Thanks for any help with these basic questions.
NM