I need to ship some wheels and I would like a little guidance from someone who's done it before.

Should I have the tires taken off to lower the cost or does that really matter?

Whats the best thing to package them in? (these are expensive wheels)

Should i stay away from UPS? (I've heard a few horror storys)

And lastly what should I expect to have to pay?

If you can help me out it would be greatly appreciated.