I realize that this isn't exactly an e31 question, but there is a hardtop for my e36 convertible that I'm trying to get shipped from Oregon to SoCal and was wondering if anybody had any really great ideas on how to do this?
The seller isn't real hip on doing anything to help out, which is cool as he just wants it sold, so I need some kind of shipper that could pick it up and then drop it at my house w/o scratching it up in the process.

check with any reputable auto shipper like The Waggoneers, or The Horseless Carriage, they should be able to help you out with their enclosed transports.

I'll try them - sounds like it might be a pricey for just a 75 lb top though -

Fedex ground is the cheapest and most reliable.... www.fedex.com (http://www.fedex.com) for a free quote..

Specialty Mobile Systems - Auto Transport Specialist

they shipped my car from ohio to wa state in 5 days, look them up, they used http://www.naoauto.com/ as the shipper, contact them direct, Alex was the driver, real cool guy

I'll give 'em a go - you guys realize this is just a bulky part, not an entire car right :)

Certin movers will do it , try a nation wide one.

Put it on a pallet with bubble wrap then shrik wrap send it with any freight company

If the seller doesn't want anything to do with shipping you the item you have to call a company that provides packaging. FedEx, UPS or DHL are forwaders. They ship, not package goods (unless its a small item which you can fit thru a door at your local UPS store or FedEx Kinkos). You need to call a company like Quick International Couriers, Network Courier, Midnite Courier or Sterling courier which will arrange pick up of your item...package it properly and deliver it to your door. Other companys in Oregon are Pilot, Exel, Rontra, Expeditors and YRC Logistics. There are others but these are more reputable. Be prepared to pay premium BUT you'll get your item in "shipped" condition.