Originally Posted by tev9999
Why not take it one step further and UPS back the box instead of checking it. Or ship back your dirty laundry and free up space in the suitcases you took with clothing for your purchases. Probably less chance of damage.
Couple of reasons:
1. Not purchases, wife's stuff stored at her parents'.
2. UK customs will stitch you up for import duty if you ship stuff home, not if you bring it with you. This despite the fact that she has an effectively unlimited allowance as a new immigrant (for now, it runs out after a while).
I think I'm leaning towards the "buy more cases and give them away" plan.
USA_flyer's box idea seems reasonable, but I did it once myself and got into a world of hurt, so I'll probably steer clear.