That's absolutely brilliant Darren, the only real snag with it is I dont want to take them out of there pots, to me that's of paramount importance as I have done more long term damage to my Hibs by re-potting to soon [especially with the 4inch] than anything else.
I hear you when it comes to the higher potential to cause damage to the more sensitive root systems of the smaller 4" plants. Plus with the very long journey your plants are making any additional stress could be too much.
Last spring I received some 4" hibs from Charlie that the shipping company had flattened and broken the pots to the point where it was like they had been shipped in plastic bags but they were fine with the short distance between HVH and my home. The critical part being the removal of the broken pot which I carefully cut apart and had my new pot already filled and ready next to it for a very quick move.
I figure if you're very gentle and don't disturb the roots much when transporting from pot to bag to new pot chances are good they would be ok. Keeping that soil around that small rootball intact without it falling apart is the key.
Best of luck David and I do like Erny's suggestion...
Farmer D
