How do you transport a balsa bridge to the contest?
A rigid box, soft support at the load points, nothing resting on joints, and a dry bag. How to get a fragile bridge there without damage.
Updated · 1 min read
Short answer: carry it in a rigid box that is bigger than the bridge, with soft support, and don't let anything touch or press on it.
- Use a rigid box, such as a sturdy cardboard box or a plastic storage box, with room around the bridge.
- Support the bridge on its feet, where it would rest on the supports, using blocks or foam, so nothing bends.
- Don't clamp or press on the middle or the joints.
- Keep it dry. Use a sealed bag in the box, since moisture changes the weight. See humidity.
- Mark the box "fragile, this way up," and carry it by hand, not in a bag or the trunk with other things.
- Check it on arrival. Look at every joint and re-weigh it if the scale is available.
- Bring repair supplies if the rules allow: glue, a knife, a few spare sticks. See the contest day checklist.
A bridge can be weakened by a small knock, so treat it as the most fragile thing you own.