c.demille posted:Here's where it gets interesting... USPS requires a proof of value for the damage in order to justify the dollar amount of the claim. How do you show proof of value for a box? You can't replace it or buy a new one, there's no replacement part or repair estimate. The box itself is really probably not worth that much. However, I am of the opinion that if one was to sell two of the same engine, one with a box and one without, the one with the box could potentially sell for a significant amount more on ebay. As time goes on, the box may even become more valuable, who knows???
As an appraiser, a technique known as a paired sales analysis helps identify the value of a particular feature or component. The sale price (or median sale price of multiple units) of a unit WITH the box less the sale price (or median sale price of multiple units) of a unit WITHOUT the box equals an indication of the value of the box. In my experience units sell more with original packaging. $100 for the box sounds like you did pretty well, but I can't be sure unless I saw the sales. Just my two cents...
