My biggest modeling disaster occurred when I was moving from Ft. Dix To Hanscom AFB. I set aside a box of in-progress kits that I carefully packed. I also set aside a box of paints that are flammable. I was going to hand carry these to keep the kits safe and because the painst could not be shipped. Both boxes were clearly labeled "Do Not Pack" so the movers would not load it onto the van.
Well, the movers decided to pack them any way and since the heavy box of paints fit inside of the box with the kits, they dropped the box of paints into the box of kits, crushing everything. The made sure all was crushed when they had to press down on the paint box so the outer box could be taped shut.
They ruined about 5 models in various stages of completion. All the kits are still on hand as parts kits or spray paint practice pieces.