"Went to UShip.com for a freight quote and the rate is the same as FedEx Ground ~$200.
What method of shipping would you choose?"
It really depends on what it is. If the speakers are rare or ultra expensive, or something else that makes it really bad for you is something happens, drive them yourself. If the box its too big, make 2 trips if you have to.
If its something replaceable, or easily valued, ship them. I would use FedEx ground, not because they are so good and careful, but because Ive had a few claims with them over the years, and they have always paid for what ever the damage was. If the speakers are something you sold here or on a place like ebay, there's not too much to worry about. You'll have proof of what the items sold for because you can reference the actual listing. You'll have proof of payment from paypal, or something like it. If you get a check, just photo copy it. Then, just do a thorough job filling out the shipping papers. Don't over or under value anything, and just put as much details down as you can, like serial and model numbers. So, if something does happen, you'll be able to prove there was a listing of some sort that resulted in a transaction, proof of payment, accurate valuation on the papers and maybe retail price conformation from the manufacturer, it doesn't leave them any reason to deny the claim. The problems begin when people lie to get more money for something, or if the item is very difficult to value, like a vintage component.
