(for anyone attempting to post a turntable) the platter and the mat should be removed and packed under the turntable, the weight should also be removed and packed away from the turntable, the headshell and cartridge should be put inside a small box making sure the stylus does not come into contact with any packaging, the lid hinges should be removed and packed away from the turntable, if you leaving them on you will end up with cracks around the lid hinge corners, I see one corner is cracked because of this, and finally never put the plug and lead on top of the lid as this could end up cracking the top of the lid when the parcel is up side down
How NOT to pack a turntable for shipment. Do not leave the platter, headshell and weight installed. They should be removed and packaged separately and then all of it securely bound together and then double boxed.
I would do exactly as you say, and put a protective cover on the stylus needle, too. however, the seller doesn't think all that is necessary, for some reason.
