[efeinsmith]

You can go to UPS or other carrier's web site and download their shipping limitations. One thing that will get you on large parts (especially long parts) is if the length plus the grith (think of the term circumference) exceeds some specified value, which will push the package into an "oversized" category, which costs more. And if you exceed their max size or weight, they might refuse it (but there aren't too many parts that are that heavy except for the engine).

You want your packing to prevent (or at least limit as much as possible) any shipping damage, so you'd want to use a strong box and lots of packing materials (inc. bubble wrap). And don't forget insurance. UPS automatically insures packages for $100 and charges 35 cents/$100 value over that.

And whatever shipping company you use, keep your receipt with the tracking number till the package arrives and the recipient is happy with it's condition.