Shipping household goods, whether across town or across the country, can be challenging. The shipping method depends on size and weight, how far the items will travel, and budget. If you are shipping just a few small items, shipping via a parcel service can be convenient and cost-effective. For huge appliances and furniture, employing a moving company or carrier (like those found on uShip) is a must.
Ocean freight is the most economical method for moving household goods internationally. These services are available for oversized shipments and options such as port-to-port or door-to-door services. Domestic moves have flexible solutions that allow packing at one’s own pace.
Are you ready to learn more about the best methods to ship your household goods? Keep reading for many other tips and tricks to make your move as smooth and cost-effective as possible.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR SHIPPING OPTIONS FOR HOUSEHOLD GOODS
Here’s a quick rundown of the best household goods shipping options for you:
Full-service moving companies
Full-service movers will pack everything and then deliver it to your destination, where they will unpack it. Though very convenient, this option is expensive, ranging from $2,000-$5,000 for a long-distance relocation. However, full-service movers offer peace of mind with professional handling and insurance coverage.
DIY moving trucks and trailers
If you are more hands-on, renting moving trucks and trailers is affordable. The prices start from as low as $20 per day, with additional mileage charges over and above. This option provides flexibility, but quite a lot of effort and time are required.
Freight carriers
These are great for large, heavy items where goods can be consolidated onto pallets. This option saves costs, especially for longer-distance moves, averaging $1,000-$2,000, but you must pack and load everything yourself.
Shipping containers
These are ideal for long-distance or international moving. Shipping containers provide a safe way of moving your goods. They range in cost from $3,000-$7,000. The convenience here is that they offer door-to-door service, but space is needed for dropping off and picking up the container.
uShip connects you with the carriers or movers that best fit your needs and budget. With its bidding system, you can choose an offer that is not only the best but also cost-effective and flexible.
HOW TO PACK HOUSEHOLD GOODS FOR SHIPPING
The right shipping approach ensures that all your items safely reach their destination. Here are some detailed tips on packing everyday household items:
Kitchenware (dishes, glassware, appliances):
Dishes and glassware: Use sturdy boxes, individually wrap items, and place them vertically in the box to minimize breakage possibilities. Fill empty spaces with packing peanuts or crumpled paper.
Appliances: For small appliances, remove any detachable parts and wrap them separately. If possible, use the original packing; otherwise, wrap the appliance in sufficient bubble wrap and place it inside a box with enough cushioning.
Furniture (sofas, beds, tables):
Sofas and beds: If possible, disassemble. Wrap each part in moving blankets or furniture pads to protect from scratches and dents. Secure the blankets with tape or stretch wrap.
Tables: Remove legs, if possible. Wrap individually and use as protection on top of the table. Tie up moving blankets with tape.
Pro Tip: If you opt for a carrier or mover on uShip, you won’t need to disassemble or purchase packaging materials, as the blanket wrapping is done for you!
Electronics (TVs, computers, audio)
TVs: Use the original carton. Otherwise, use bubble wrap and place the TV in a box at least one size larger than the TV. Fill gaps with packing peanuts or foam inserts.
Computers and audio equipment: Wrap each item in anti-static bubble wrap. Fill strong boxes with padding material inside. Label the boxes as “Fragile” and “This Side Up” to give the movers extra care.
Easily breakable, fragile items (mirrors, artwork, antiques):
Mirrors and art: Special mirror boxes or just a special box using cardboard sheets can be used. Wrap the article in bubble wrap and tape it using packing tape. Put the item inside the box and fill the gaps using the packing peanuts.
Antiques: Wrap each article in bubble wrap, place it in a box, and put lots of cushion for each. You might use custom crates to protect those precious objects. Larger antiques can be covered in blankets and shrink-wrapped – a service provided by most carriers on uShip.
Packaging supplies:
Boxes: Insist on good, sturdy boxes that support the weight you are packing.
Bubble Wrap and Packing Peanuts are used to cushion and protect fragile articles, such as delicate jewelry or antique art.
Packing Paper: Just right for wrapping and filling gaps between breakable objects.
Moving Blankets: This is a good option for protecting oversized items, like furniture, from dings.
Labeling: Number each box to identify it, label the box’s contents, and indicate which room it goes in. Where practical, use “Fragile” and “This Side Up” labels to guarantee proper handling care.
SHIPPING HOUSEHOLD GOODS DOMESTICALLY VS. INTERNATIONALLY
Knowing the differences between domestic and international shipping will help you make well-informed decisions and ensure your goods arrive in one piece.
Customs documentation
When a shipment is made within the same country, customs documentation is generally not required. The process is straightforward, using essential shipping labels and invoices. On the other hand, extensive customs documentation is usually required for a shipment across the border. The items being shipped must be inventoried, with their value and purpose included. Failure to correctly complete the documentation may result in delays and additional customs charges.
Duties and taxes
Generally speaking, there are no duties or taxes on domestic shipments. Shipping costs and sales tax are typically the most significant cost components for most shipments. Regarding international shipping, every country has different rules and tariffs that are highly variable. You must research and understand what all these costs may entail in advance to avoid any surprise fees.
Transit times and tracking
In-country shipment typically takes shorter and has a more predictable time of delivery. Since most domestic shipments are tracked in real-time, it gives the sender peace of mind while allowing for better planning. Since international shipments must travel farther and pass through more customs than domestic shipments, they generally take a little longer. Tracking can be less direct, with less frequent, sometimes delayed, updates on the status of your shipment. Fortunately, many reliable carriers, including those found through uShip, use detailed tracking services that allow you to follow your shipment every step of the way.
COST OF SHIPPING HOUSEHOLD GOODS AND HOW TO SAVE MONEY
Shipping household goods can be expensive; however, knowing what factors influence cost and potential ways to save money can keep the bottom line in check. The costs usually incurred when shipping household goods are as follows:
Weight and dimension: The weight and size of the items shipped are the main driving forces behind the shipping costs. The heavier and bulkier an item is, the more space it needs and the higher the costs. For instance, shipping furniture that requires a lot of space will cost more than posting packed boxes of clothes.
Distance traveled: The farther your products are shipped, the greater the shipping cost. On average, a local move costs less than a cross-country move or international relocation. Shipping from New York to Los Angeles will be more expensive than shipping within the same city.
Special handling needs: Special care products and fragile or valuable items will require higher shipping costs. Packaging material with more unique features, insurance, and sometimes specialty transportation to ensure goods are delivered safely are included.
When you choose to ship with uShip, carriers and movers will compete for your business, ensuring a cost-effective solution that works for your budget.
Money Saving Tips
If you are a bit worried about the cost of shipping, here are a few ways you can keep it down:
Declutter before you move: Clean out the house and eliminate items you no longer need in this home. Donate, sell, and recycle them. In this way, lighten the load and decrease your shipping costs.
Off-peak seasons shipping time: Peak seasons like summer holidays can be expensive as demand increases during such seasons. Stagger your move to off-peak seasons for reduced charges and better accessibility to shipping services.
Compare quotes from carriers on uShip: Our site allows you to compare quotes from multiple carriers and get the best deal by choosing a carrier that works with your budget and needs. Reading reviews and checking ratings can also help you find a reliable provider.
BEST PRACTICES FOR SHIPPING LARGE AND BULKY HOUSEHOLD GOODS
Large and bulky household goods include, but are not limited to, couches, beds, pianos, and appliances that can only be safely transported through careful planning and appropriate logistics. Here are some best practices to handle those kinds of oversized items:
Couches, beds, and other large furniture
Dismantle when possible: Break down large furniture into smaller components to make it easier to handle and carry. Remove legs, cushions, or anything detachable.
Wrapping protective: Use blankets for furniture, bubble wrap, and stretch film to avoid scratches and damage.
Label parts: Clearly label all parts and hardware so you can easily re-assemble it when you arrive at your destination.
Pianos or large musical instruments
Professional Hiring: Pianos and other large instruments are very fragile and heavy. Professional movers with experience moving such items are highly recommended.
Specialized Equipment: Use piano boards, straps, and dollies designed to handle pianos’ movement for safety.
Insurance: Ensure your instrument is sufficiently covered with insurance to cover it from damage during the move.
Appliances (refrigerators, washing machines, etc.)
Prepare appliances: Before shipment, all appliances should be cleaned and emptied. Use tape or padding to secure any loose parts, including shelves and drawers.
Reusable packaging: If possible, use the original packaging, as it is designed to provide the best protection for the appliance.
Palletizing: Palletizing is another option for providing heavy appliances with extra stability and protection during transport. Fasten the appliance onto the pallet with straps, then wrap protective material over it.
Pro Tip: By booking with a uShip carrier, you can skip the hassle of disassembly and buying packing materials—blanket wrapping is part of the service.
When to palletize items
Palletizing becomes crucial, especially for heavy or bulky shipments that need extra stability. Refrigerators, washing machines, and large pieces of furniture are better off being palletized to avoid shifting and consequential damage while in transit. Palletizing also makes it easier to handle such items with forklifts and other equipment.
How uShip can help
uShip provides a platform where you are matched with experienced carriers for large and bulky household goods shipments who blanket wrap for you. Some of the things you can do through uShip include:
Compare quotes: You receive various quotes from different carriers; this allows you to find the best price and service to suit your needs.
Read reviews: Check reviews and ratings to ensure you choose a reliable delivery provider.
Specialized services: With uShip, book special services like palletizing professional piano movers, among others, to ensure your items are handled with care.
HOW USHIP CAN SIMPLIFY THE PROCESS OF SHIPPING HOUSEHOLD GOODS
Shipping household goods can be a daunting task for many, but uShip’s marketplace makes the process easier and more efficient. Here’s how uShip can make things easier for you:
Multiple quotes from carriers
On uShip, you are guided step-by-step in creating a listing outlining your shipment and precisely what you need. As soon as your listing is live, multiple carriers with quotes on your shipment will be set for you. Our competitive bidding ensures that you get the best available rates by comparing them side by side; thus, it is easy to find a carrier that fits your budget and meets your requirements.
Choose the best shipping option for specific needs
With uShip, you can select the shipping method that best fits your needs. Whether you are shipping one piece of furniture or an entire household, uShip’s website features a list of carriers specializing in different shipments. You may scan reviews and ratings of past customers to help select a reliable, experienced carrier.
Packaging and Handling Included
When you go with a uShip carrier, they handle the blanket wrapping, so you don’t have to worry about disassembly or buying packing supplies. This not only saves you the time and hassle of prepping your items for transport, but it also helps you avoid the extra costs of purchasing materials. With everything taken care of by your carrier, you can enjoy a stress-free moving experience while keeping more money in your pocket.
Track shipments and communicate directly with carriers
uShip will even allow you to track your shipment in real time as it moves from the pickup point to the final destination, so you always know exactly what’s happening at each step. That makes for a certain peace of mind knowing the live status of your times. Direct access to the carriers on uShip’s website also means you can send them a question or two, request special handling instructions, and learn about the status of your shipment at all times during shipping.
Customer testimonials and success stories
Many customers had a great experience when shipping goods through uShip. Here are just a few quotes:
“I have used uShip six times in the last five years. Great company—they have kept their standards high on every experience I have with them. Can’t recommend highly enough.” Taylor S. Bend, OR
“My grandmother’s physical therapist said she needed to declutter the furniture in her house for her safety, and she offered me her nice couch. She wanted me to have it, and I was excited. However, I live five hours away. I was so thankful to find uShip online. Within no time and without much expense, I had her couch here in the living room! The movers were very polite and helpful to my 92-year-old grandma and to me.” Daphne K., NY
“The whole process was easy and smooth as glass. My chair came much faster than I was expecting and in great condition. The price was extremely reasonable. Highly recommend.” Austin, TX – Kirsten W.
CONCLUSION
Shipping household goods can be straightforward once best practices are followed and options are chosen correctly. Whether you employ professional movers, shipping containers, or freight services, ensuring a move goes well boils down to good planning and smart packing.
To enjoy complete, hassle-free experiences, visit uShip to find the perfect carrier. Get a quote from uShip today and make your move as stress-free as possible!
MOST COMMON QUESTIONS PEOPLE ALSO ASK
What is the best way to ship household goods?
The best option depends on your needs: professional moving companies for full service, shipping containers for huge volumes, and freight services if you are looking for cost-effective alternatives. When you go with a uShip carrier, they take care of the blanket wrapping, so you don’t have to worry about disassembly or packing supplies.
How much does it cost to ship household items?
Costs broadly differ based on the distance, volume, and means of shipment applied. For instance, domestic moves take anywhere from $1,000-$5,000, while international moves are significantly higher.
How do I pack household items for shipping?
Packing household items to ship: Use sturdy boxes, bubble wrap for fragile items, packing peanuts, or crumpled paper to fill spaces in the box. Label the box with the contents and the room in which it goes.
How do I prepare a package for shipping household goods internationally?
Items should be well-packed and protected, and all customs documentation should be completed. It is also essential to consider purchasing insurance for valuable items.
How do I find reliable movers to ship household items?
Check online reviews, ask for referrals, and get quotes from movers. To find and compare carriers, you could utilize listing websites like uShip.
What are the best materials for packing household goods?
You will need many strong boxes, bubble wrap, packing peanuts, packing paper, and packing tape. Choose a carrier on uShip, and they’ll handle the blanket wrapping—no need for you to disassemble or gather extra packing supplies!
How do I label boxes for shipping household goods?
Clearly label each box with its contents and the room to which it belongs. Use a permanent marker and consider color-coding for a more accessible organization.
What should I consider when shipping household goods long distances?
Consider the shipping method, cost, insurance, and the carrier’s reputation. Be prepared in advance so that all your items will be packed well and arrive at their destination safely.
