If you're moving to a new state (or a foreign country), you might be at a loss for how to transport your belongings. After all, even the most minor possessions can amount to a small mountain of cardboard boxes.
Larger items can be particularly challenging to transport, as they're often quite heavy or awkwardly shaped. Fortunately, you can ship large items cheap and quickly by choosing a reliable large item delivery service.
Without further ado, let's explore everything you need to know about how to ship large items.
Common Types of Shippable Large Items
There are several types of shippable items that may be too large for your vehicle or moving truck. These belongings may require large item shipping services, which is something to consider when preparing to move.
A few of the most common of these oversized items include:
- Household Appliances
- Vehicles
- Mobile Homes
Examining these types of large items is crucial to understand the shipping process and its potential costs. So, let's take few moments to discuss why shipping big items is a common practice!
Household Appliances
Moving to a new home can be an expensive ordeal, especially if you're not bringing your current household appliances along for the ride. After all, dishwashers, laundry units, and oven ranges can all be quite expensive.
Buying all brand-new appliances and installing them at your destination can quickly become far pricier than transporting your current ones. Naturally, it's essential to hire a trustworthy transport service when moving these items.
Vehicles
When you're moving to a new home, you might suddenly appreciate just how much stuff you own.
Even if most of your possessions fit into a few dozen cardboard boxes or storage bins, there's a good chance you own a few pieces of furniture. All these belongings likely won't fit inside your SUV, sedan, or truck.
That's why many people choose to rent a moving truck. These spacious transport vehicles make it far easier to move households quickly and easily. But they might not be the best way to ship heavy items.
That's because moving trucks prompt a new problem: How are you going to move your vehicle? Again, large item shipping services are an excellent answer to this question, especially for those moving long distances.
Mobile Homes
Some homes are capable of driving themselves around. Others need a helping hand to get onto the road. But homes that aren't powered by built-in engines often require specialized mobile home transport services.
Of course, shipping a mobile home is far different from moving a washing machine or a car. You may need special permits, as well as liability insurance. Still, a trustworthy transport company can help.
How To Ship Large Items
There are quite a few ways to ship large items domestically and internationally. But finding the best option can be challenging if you're unfamiliar with the different shipping services that are currently available.
So, to ship large items, you'll want to follow a brief series of steps:
- Consider the Distance
- Calculate the Weight
- Choose a Large Item Delivery Service
Following this three-step process may be the best way to ship heavy items and ensure they make it safely to their destination. It can also help you avoid unexpected and unwanted shipping fees.
But, of course, the first thing you'll want to do when shipping a large item is to consider how long of a journey it needs to make. Domestic shipping services are often simpler and more affordable than international ones.
Consider the Distance
How far are you planning on shipping your large item? If the answer is within the continental US, you could use standard transport service providers, like the USPS.
Of course, that's only if your large item weighs less than 70lbs. Many everyday items, such as household appliances and vehicles, don't make the cut.
Other popular North American shipping companies like FedEx also have relatively low weight limits of about 150lbs. Not only does this preclude many more oversized, heavier items, but it also affects shipping costs.
Those hoping to transport bulky items domestically or internationally should consider working with a dedicated transport company. These professional shipping experts make large item shipping a breeze.
However, you might want to calculate your item's weight before reaching out to a transport company.
Calculate the Weight
Weight is one of the most crucial aspects of any shipping service. After all, heavier objects require more energy to transport. If these items are also quite large, they take up more space on shipping vessels.
Consequently, size and weight tend to be the priciest aspects of large item shipping. Standard shipping delivery services often charge based on size and weight, making shipping big items challenging and expensive.
Still, if your large item weighs 150lbs or less, you can choose a domestic shipping company or service to move that item.
But if you're looking to transport something larger or heavier, like a car, you'll want to choose a company that specializes in those kinds of services. Nexus, for example, offers several top-notch auto transport services.
Choose a Large Item Delivery Service
Transporting a truly massive item like a vehicle can be challenging. But there are dedicated auto transport services that can make the process far more straightforward.
For example, door-to-door car shipping services allow you to have your car picked up from your current residence and dropped off at your new one.
This type of service reduces the time you need to spend actively engaged in transporting your car. As such, you'll have more time to focus on other aspects of your move.
Of course, not all transport services are equally priced. Therefore, budgeting for your shipping needs is essential when finding the best way to ship heavy items.
Your specific large item shipping cost may depend on the service you choose.
How Much Is It To Ship Large Items?
Large item shipping cost varies depending on distance, weight, and size. The further an item needs to travel, and the bigger and heavier it is, the pricier than transport service is likely to be.
Of course, you can estimate your shipping costs by utilizing several helpful tools. For example, if you're looking to transport your vehicle, you can use a car shipping cost calculator to help you figure out an approximate cost.
It's an excellent idea to request a personalized estimate or quote before agreeing to any transport services. After all, moving is stressful enough without adding sudden fees or lost belongings.
Shipping big items is less stressful when you have a professional transport company by your side. Still, it's natural to have a few questions about these types of services.
Commonly Asked Questions
Below you will find the answers to several commonly asked questions regarding large item shipping and its potential costs. If you cannot find the answer you're looking for, be sure to contact us for further assistance.
How Do I Ship a Large Flat Item?
A large flat item may qualify for USPS or FedEx shipping services, depending on its exact dimensions and weight. The USPS limits its accepted parcels to those weighing less than 70lbs and are smaller than 108in long and wide.
If your flat, large package falls within that range, you may be able to ship it using USPS services. However, if your flat item exceeds these limits, you might want to try FedEx's large item shipping services.
Shipping big items through FedEx tends to be slightly easier than using USPS services. FedEx accepts parcels weighing up to 150lbs.
These packages can be up to 119in long, with a maximum width (girth) of 165in. Should your flat item fall within these bounds, FedEx could be the most affordable way to go.
What Is the Cheapest Way To Ship a Large Item?
To ship large items cheap, you'll want to hire a dedicated transport company that specializes in shipping bulky items. Many of the more common domestic shipping services charge by weight and size.
But a transport company that explicitly handles large item shipping is bound to offer top-notch services for reasonable prices. That said, the type of service you choose can influence the final cost.
For example, auto transport services that leave your car uncovered tend to be more affordable than those that keep the vehicle enclosed. If affordability is one of your top priorities, you can always opt for uncovered transport.
How Much Does It Cost To Ship a 100-Pound Package?
The cost to ship a 100lb package varies depending on your chosen transport service, as well as the size of the package. For example, you could pay about $55 to ship a 100lb package with FedEx Ground services.
Expedited services with the same provider tend to cost about $300 more. Notably, the USPS doesn't offer large item shipping services for packages weighing more than 70lbs.
International shipping companies like DHL often charge slightly more when shipping big items. However, they offer a more impressive weight limit of about 660lbs.
Choose the Best Large Item Delivery Service
The best way to ship large items like vehicles is to choose a reliable delivery service. Large item shipping cost fluctuates depending on weight and item size, with heavier and bigger objects costing more to transport.
Top-notch companies like Nexus offer fair estimates to help you budget for your transport needs. In addition, you'll be able to choose from a variety of shipping services, including expedited transport options.
Are you interested in learning more about how large item shipping works? If so, be sure to check out this three-step guide now!
