Shipping Large and Oversized Items
Furniture, equipment, and oversized cargo present unique shipping challenges. Proper handling and carrier selection protect your goods and control costs.
Shipping Methods
LTL (Less Than Truckload)
- Shares truck space with other shipments
- Cost-effective for palletized cargo
- Multiple handling points increase damage risk
- Freight class affects pricing significantly
Blanket Wrap / Pad Wrap
- Specialized service for furniture and delicate items
- Items wrapped in moving blankets
- Minimal handling, fewer touchpoints
- Higher cost but lower damage rates
White Glove Delivery
- Inside delivery and placement
- Unpacking and debris removal
- Assembly if needed
- Premium pricing for premium service
Dedicated/Full Truckload
- Exclusive use of vehicle
- No freight class concerns
- Direct routing, faster transit
- Best for large volume or delicate shipments
Packaging Requirements
Crating
- Wood crates for maximum protection
- Required for fragile or high-value items
- Adds weight and cost
- May be required for international shipping
Palletizing
- Standard for LTL shipping
- Keep within pallet footprint
- Secure with strapping and stretch wrap
- Consider corner boards for edge protection
Special Considerations
- Glass and mirrors need special crating
- Upholstery should be covered
- Legs and protrusions should be removed or protected
- Hardware should be bagged and attached
Dimensional Weight
Large, light items may be charged by dimensional weight:
- DIM weight = (L × W × H) / DIM factor
- Carrier charges higher of actual or DIM weight
- Furniture often has unfavorable DIM
Freight Class for Furniture
- Furniture typically classes 100-200
- Density drives classification
- Knocked-down (KD) furniture ships cheaper than assembled
- Proper packaging can improve class
Insurance Considerations
- Carrier liability is limited
- Declare full value for insurance coverage
- Document condition before shipping
- Photograph for claims support
Receiving Best Practices
- Inspect before signing delivery receipt
- Note any damage on the receipt
- Take photos of damage immediately
- Report claims promptly
Choosing the Right Carrier
- Experience with furniture/oversized items
- Damage claim rate history
- Delivery options (threshold, room of choice)
- Insurance and liability coverage
