What’s The Cheapest Way to Ship Large Packages?

If you are in the business of shipping oversized/large packages, you might know the extra costs that come along with it. One of the best ways is to join hands with a multi-carrier solution that not only offers you pre-negotiated courier rates but also value added features like label printing, branded tracking and pick & pack fulfillment to ensure that your customers do not turn away from you in the future. Afterall, that is the biggest money saving technique you need to acknowledge!

Online merchants always have issues with shipping carriers shipping large or heavy packages affordably.

However, as an eCommerce business owner, you should know you don’t have to spend a fortune on large package shipping. Whether you’re delivering across the US or engaging in cross-border shipping, this article will discuss the cheapest way to ship large packages and how to ship large items.

You’ll learn how to ship large items at discounted rates using reputable couriers like USPS, UPS, DHL, and FedEx. Alternatively, Easyship offers over 250+ shipping options with up to 91% off discounted shipping rates.

What's an Oversized Item?

Oversized items are those that exceed the size and weight restrictions laid out by a courier service. In other words, "oversized" is in the eye of the shipper. Depending on the shipping carrier, there may be different weight limits, though if your shipment is over 65 pounds, most likely it’s a large freight item.

Below is a list of common large items:

• Furniture
• TVs
• Bikes
• Machinery

Here's what oversized means to the top four shipping carriers for large package shipping. Plus, we’ll go over other important information like transit time for shipping large items with USPS.

Cheapest Options for Shipping Large Items

Now that you know how to ship big packages, let’s look at some of the cheapest shipping methods available. We’ll also go over standard shipping, priority mail, and freight options from top carriers.

Here are the rates for sending a 65-pound package from New York City, NY to Los Angeles, CA with the Easyship rate calculator:

Category: Accessory (no battery)

Weight: 65lbs

Origin: New York

Destination: Los Angeles

For the cheapest options in many domestic cases, UPS Ground or UPS Ground Saver often offers the lowest shipping costs for large boxes.

Shipping Large Boxes with USPS

USPS will charge a specific oversize price if your package dimensions exceed 108 inches or the combined length and girth are less than 130 inches. Most of the USPS services have a  of 70 lbs..

USPS Priority Mail Express offers faster delivery times but is more expensive while USPS Ground Advantage offers a more cost effective solution for the heavy and large items.

Shipping Large Boxes with UPS

You can ship oversized items with UPS, but the minimum billable actual weight is 90 pounds and you’ll face additional oversized shipping fees for large packages that exceed 96 inches in length or 130 inches in combined girth.

Any heavy items above 150 lbs, 108 inches in length, or more than 165 inches in length and girth combined must go through UPS freight services.

UPS classifies shipments as:

• Big Packages: Exceed 96" on the longest side or exceed a combined 130" length plus width plus girth.
  
  
• Over Maximum Limits: Weigh 150 lbs+, longer than 108", or exceeding 130" in combined length, width, and girth. These must go via freight shipping.

Lets figure out the cheapest and most value based rates with the help of Easyship shipping rate calculator. 

Category: Accessory (no battery)

Weight: 150 pounds

Origin: New York

Destination: Los Angeles

UPS® Ground is the cheapest option, costing around $163.62 while the most value centric courier is the UPS Next Day Air Saver®, delivering the package in 1 day with a rate at $663.

Shipping Large Boxes with DHL

Dimensional Weight: Over 155 pounds, or 70 kilograms

Length/width: Over 47" x 31" x 31" (120 cm x 80 cm x 80 cm)

• DHL is an express courier that specializes in international shipments
• Contact DHL directly for pricing quotes on big packages so you know how to ship a large package

FedEx also applies oversized shipping fees for packages over 96 inches or 130 inches combined. Shipments over 90 lbs often incur special handling surcharges.

FedEx considers both actual weight and dimensional weight to calculate estimated shipping costs. Ground and express options are available for large and heavy items.

Category: Accessory (no battery)

Weight: 90 pounds

Origin: New York

Destination: Los Angeles 

FedEx 2Day® is the cheapest option, costing around $149.27 while the most value centric courier is the UPS Next Day Air Saver® delivering the package in 1 day at $663.

• FedEx oversized is smaller than UPS and USPS, both in terms of package weight and dimensions
• Big packages can be sent via the US and International Ground Services and US Express Package. However, each package will incur a $90 charge
• You may also face additional charges from FedEx for shipping large items during the holidays

Related post: The Cheapest Ways to Ship Small Package

Cheapest Way to Ship Large Packages Internationally

International shipping large or oversized packages doesn’t have to be hard. Fortunately, Easyship offers 550+ courier services and discounted rates up to 91% off.

Whether shipping to Canada, Australia, Europe, or China, Easyship helps compare competitive rates from major carriers like DHL, UPS, FedEx, and USPS. This ensures you can find the cheapest way to ship large packages while maintaining fast delivery times.

Shipping from the US to Canada

Say you want to ship a 65-pound package from the United States to Canada. We’ll use our free shipping rates calculator to calculate the shipping costs.

Category: Accessory (no battery)

Weight: 65 pounds

Origin: New York

Destination: Ontario, Canada

UPS Worldwide Expedited® is the cheapest option, costing around $160 while the most value centric courier is the UPS Worldwide Saver® delivering the package in 3 days at $205.

Shipping from the US to Australia

Now, say you want to ship a 65-pound package from the US to Australia this time. Again, we’ll use our shipping rates calculator to calculate the shipping costs.

Category: Accessory (no battery)

Weight: 65 pounds

Origin: New York

Destination: Melbourne, Australia

FedEx® International Connect Plus is the cheapest option, costing around $301.51 while the most value centric courier is the UPS Worldwide Saver® delivering the package in 1 day at $468.68.

Shipping from the US to Europe

Looking to ship to the United Kingdom? Say you want to ship the same 65-pound package again but to the United Kingdom. Below are the shipping costs.

Category: Accessory (no battery)

Weight: 65 pounds

Origin: New York

Destination: London, UK

FedEx® International Connect Plus is the cheapest option, costing around $195.12while the most value centric courier is the UPS Worldwide Saver® delivering the package in 1 day at $321.31.

Shipping from the US to China

Now, say you want to ship a 65-pound package from the US to China. The rates are below for the 65-pound package.

Category: Accessory (no battery)

Weight: 65 pounds

Origin: New York

Destination: Beijing, China

USPS - Priority Mail International is the cheapest option, delivering in 11-14 days and costing around $351.82 while the most value centric courier is the UPS Worldwide Saver® delivering the package in 1 day at $388.50.

Sign up for a free Easyship account to see more options. That way you’ll receive the cheapest way to ship large packages.

If you’re looking for the best and cheapest shipping rates for shipping large items, Easyship has you covered.

Options For Shipping Large Items

So, now that you know how to ship big packages, let’s talk about what oversized shipping options are available to eCommerce business owners. Plus, we’ll go over the cheapest way to ship large packages and the transit times for shipping carriers.

Here are the rates for sending a 65-pound package from New York City, NY to Los Angeles, CA with the Easyship rate calculator:

UPS Ground Saver

Do you need a way to ship big packages over 50 pounds without hurting your bottom line? You might want to try UPS Ground Saver. The service allows you to ship large packages that weigh up to 70lbs at great prices. The transit time for large packages sent with this shipping solution is usually delivered within three working days.

As usual, the Easyship rate calculator makes it super easy to compare shipping costs on specific orders. At $95.17, this service is the cheapest way to ship large packages domestically, plus includes excellent tracking options.

USPS Ground Advantage

USPS - Ground Advantage is a new service that replaces the existing Parcel Select Ground and First-Class Package options. Combining the strengths of both to create a new faster and more affordable service, you can conveniently ship packages weighing up to 70lbs and expect them to be delivered within 2-5 business days.

FedEx Ground

FedEx Ground is available to online merchants who need to ship large packages for packages that weigh 70+ lbs. These services are also significantly discounted and deliveries are made between 1-3 business days for FedEx Ground shipments.

How to Prepare to Ship Heavy Items

Before you send out heavy and large items, follow these tips to ensure safe delivery and avoid added costs:

• Take accurate measurements: Measuring package dimensions and weight helps avoid surprise charges based on dimensional weight.
  

• Proper packaging: Use sturdy boxes, strong box materials, and heavy duty packing tape for extra security. Add bubble wrap or other packaging materials to protect contents.
  
  
• Tracking: Offer tracking to reduce buyer anxiety on single shipment or multiple packages.
  
  
• Consider destination: Delivery times and shipping costs depend on the zone distance.
  
  
• Shipping insurance: Insure high-value heavy packages to protect against loss or damage.
  
  
• Courier comparison: Use a shipping rate calculator to compare services, fixed price options, and competitive rates.
  
  
• Shipping speed: Choosing slower standard shipping can help save money versus express options like Priority Mail Express.
  
  
• Restrictions: Confirm your shipping provider allows your hazardous materials or other restricted items.

Why eCommerce Shops Should Consider 3PLs

Third-party logistic companies have a lot of experience when it comes to handling shipments of all sizes, weights, and shapes. They take it upon themselves to ensure your heavy items are managed well throughout delivery and partner with the best carriers.

They are, therefore, a top choice for SMEs in the eCommerce space and can be very helpful for retailers dealing with complex shipments. Easyship is a leading eCommerce and logistics company that can help you cut costs and ensure a smooth shipping experience.

Start Shipping Large Packages and Other Oversized Items  with Easyship

Whether shipping 10 packages or 10,000, you can always find the best and most cost-effective shipping services with Easyship, especially if you are looking for the cheapest way to ship an oversized package. Easyship offers 550+ courier solutions with discounts of up to 91% on shipping costs. This makes the perfect way to find the best way to ship oversized items.

From gym equipment and clothing to luggage, beauty products, and even auto parts, Easyship has eCommerce business owners covered. Now, there’s no need to worry about how to ship large items 一 we’ll be there every step of the way.

In addition to unbeatable discounts, Easyship offers a range of user-friendly shipping tools designed to take your shipping experience to the next level and delight buyers. Explore some of our most popular features:

• Shipping Rate Calculator: Seamlessly compare shipping rates from various carriers using our shipping rate calculator
• Courier Comparison Tool: Elevate your shipping strategy with our courier comparison tool. Evaluate the diverse shipping services offered by each courier. Choose the most economical way to ship, factoring in various aspects beyond just cost
• Insurance: Safeguard your packages during transit with insurance coverage of up to $10,000, reinforcing your peace of mind
• Tracking: Boost buyer satisfaction by providing custom-branded tracking emails and automatic message alerts. Offer visibility throughout the delivery journey

Sign up for an account today and start saving money on shipping oversized items.

Shipping Large Packages FAQ

What is the cheapest way to ship large packages?
The cheapest way to ship large items depends on the size and weight of the package, but using a shipping calculator like Easyship's can help you compare rates from over 550+ courier services. Generally, freight shipping services such as UPS Freight or FedEx Freight are more affordable for large shipments.

How are oversized items shipped?
Oversized items are typically shipped via freight services, either ground or air, and may require special handling, larger containers, or palletizing. These packages often need to meet specific requirements such as exceeding size limits or weight limits set by carriers.

Does UPS ship oversized items?
Yes, UPS ships oversized items through their Freight and Large Package services, offering ground and air options. UPS has specific requirements for large boxes that exceed certain dimensions or weights, and may apply additional charges for oversized shipments.

Is it cheaper to ship large items through UPS or USPS?
USPS is typically cheaper for smaller heavy items, but for larger, heavier items, UPS is usually more cost-effective due to their freight services and ability to handle bigger packages, especially those that exceed standard shipping limits. USPS is often more affordable for smaller oversized packages that don't exceed size limits.

What is the cheapest way to ship a large item?
The cheapest way to ship large items depends on their dimensions and weight, but generally, freight shipping methods like UPS Freight or FedEx Freight offer the best rates for larger packages. Using tools like Easyship's shipping rate calculator will help you compare the best rates for shipping large items.

How do I ship a 100-pound box?
To ship large boxes weighing around 100 pounds, consider using freight shipping services like UPS Freight or FedEx Freight. These services are designed for heavy packages and typically provide the most cost-effective options for large and heavy items.

What is the cheapest way to send large parcels?
The cheapest way to send large parcels often involves using freight carriers like UPS Freight or FedEx Freight, which specialize in oversized shipments. You can also use USPS for smaller oversized items that don't exceed the size limits or weight limits.

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