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When you ship large, heavy boxes and/or items for your business, it can be very challenging and expensive. We can help you better understand the process and define what the couriers even consider a heavy or large shipment.
Cheapest Way to Ship Large Heavy Boxes | FlagShip Canada
Defining what constitutes a large or heavy box varies among carriers, as each has its own weight and dimension limits for individual packages. It’s crucial to understand these limits to avoid unexpected charges for oversized packages. For instance, exceeding the courier’s weight and dimension restrictions often results in costly additional fees.
What exactly is considered a large or heavy box when shipping ?
There’s no universally recognized description of what is regarded as a “large package or heavy package”. Every carrier defines this term differently, as there are set weight and dimension limits for individual packages within a shipment.
It is important to know the maximum shipping size of your shipments to avoid undue charges for oversized packages. Read our blog on package weight and dimension limits for individual packages. And note that exceeding package weight and dimension limits set by the courier will result in additional charges that are typically quite expensive.
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Ship Large Items: Expert Guide to Cost-Effective Solutions (2024)
What are the shipping options for large, heavy shipments?
With shipping heavy items, at FlagShip, we always have options! You can ship with us in one of two ways:
- Courier service: your business can save up to 70% on shipping costs! When shipping heavy items with a courier be sure to know the weight and size restrictions. UPS and FedEx, for instance, have set a maximum weight of 150 lbs and if you or your business are looking to ship heavier items then this would be a limitation for you. For items that exceed the courier limits, we always have our freight service.
- Freight services: when your shipment is too large to travel via courier, FlagShip’s Freight LTL services can arrange for less-than-truckload (LTL) and full-truckload (FTL) skid shipments. No shipment is too big or too small, and we cover all of Canada and the USA.
7 Factors to consider when looking for the most cost- effective way to ship large heavy boxes.
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Shipping Guidelines | Before preparing to ship large heavy boxes, check with your chosen courier if they have any specific guidelines. For instance, Purolator has set guidelines for shipping industrial equipment. |
| Dimensions and Weight | Understand how the weight density of your packages affects transportation prices. Know the actual weight, dimensional weight, and billable weight. Actual weight is what the product weighs, including packaging. Dimensional weight is based on dimensions instead of actual weight, and you are billed on whichever one is higher. Learn how to calculate dimensional weight for our partnered couriers – click here. |
| Proper Packaging | Ensure items are securely packed in appropriately sized packages. Larger, heavier items are typically more expensive, so prevent damage during transportation:
If your items are fragile, watch our video on how to package fragile shipments. |
| Shipment Location | The distance between the pickup and drop-off locations, along with the weight of the item, will determine the shipping cost. Use our shipping system to get a free quote and find the most cost-effective option. Login now to quote. |
| Insurance | For high-value or fragile heavy items, we recommend insuring your shipment. FlagShip offers the lowest insurance rates and a hassle-free claims process. Learn more about our insurance here. |
| Export Taxes or Duty Fees | Depending on the destination and nature of your shipment, you may need to pay taxes or duty fees. Consult your customs broker to ensure compliance and avoid unexpected charges. |
| Special Handling Fees | For large, heavy, or fragile items, a special handling fee may be required to ensure careful handling. With FlagShip, you can easily apply this option when processing your shipment. |
How FlagShip Gets You the Cheapest Shipping for Large Heavy Packages
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Save up to 70% | Save up to 70% on your shipping! No strings attached, no minimums or contracts to sign. |
| Free Sign-Up | Sign up for free to access FlagShip’s easy-to-use online shipping system. View live shipping quotes or start a shipment right away, at any time. |
| Compare Rates | Compare courier rates all in one place from top couriers like Purolator, UPS, FedEx, DHL, Canpar, and GLS. Identify and select the best courier rate or service for your heavy package. |
| Customer Service | Full access, even after hours, to FlagShip’s top-rated customer service team. Any questions you have about your shipment, we are only a phone call or email away. |
| No Pick-Up Fees | Save with no pick-up fees. |
| Email Tracking | Email tracking and delivery notifications on every shipment. |
| Print Labels Easily | Easily print your shipping labels. |
| Consolidated Billing | One consolidated bill for all your shipping activities. |
| Global Shipping | Ship anywhere – Canada, USA, and international. |
With FlagShip, not only do you save time and money, but you also benefit from the best customer support team in the industry. There is only one phone number to call, one consolidated invoice, live customer support (even after hours).
So, remember, no shipment is too big or too small for the FlagShip team to handle and we cover all of Canada and anywhere in the world. Whether you need tips on how to make your freight shipping a success or how to wrap your pallet for freight shipping, or need help on a shipping quote – our team of specialists are always here to help.
If you have any questions don’t hesitate to reach out to our support team at support@flagshipcompany.com or our logistics team at dispatch@flagshipcompany.com for any help with your large shipment or call us at our toll-free number 1-866-320-8383. We would be happy to help with your individual or small business shipping needs.
FAQs About Shipping Large Heavy Boxes
What is considered a large or heavy box when shipping?
There is no single definition of “large” or “heavy.” Each courier sets its own weight and dimension limits. For example, Purolator, UPS, and FedEx generally limit courier shipments to 150 lbs per package. Anything above that is considered freight and must be shipped via LTL or FTL services. It’s always best to check your courier’s specific limits before shipping.
Which couriers can I use to ship heavy packages in Canada?
With FlagShip, you can compare real-time rates from major couriers like Purolator, UPS, FedEx, DHL, Canpar, and GLS in one place. For shipments over courier size/weight limits, FlagShip also offers LTL and FTL freight shipping across Canada and the USA.
How can I reduce the cost of shipping large, heavy boxes?
To keep costs down, measure and weigh your shipment accurately, choose right-sized packaging, and compare courier rates before booking. With FlagShip, you save up to 70% off standard courier rates and avoid extra pick-up fees. Using freight for oversized shipments is often cheaper than paying courier surcharges.
What’s the difference between courier and freight shipping?
Courier shipping is best for packages under 150 lbs and within carrier dimension limits. Freight shipping (LTL or FTL) is used when packages are larger, heavier, or palletized. FlagShip helps you book both courier and freight shipments through one simple online system.
Do I need special packaging for heavy items?
Yes. Use new, durable boxes, heavy-duty tape, and internal padding to protect your items. For palletized freight shipments, always ensure the pallet is as large as or larger than the box to prevent damage during transit. Proper packaging reduces the risk of damage and additional handling fees.
Is shipping insurance recommended for heavy packages?
Absolutely. Heavy and valuable items are at higher risk for damage during transit. FlagShip offers competitive shipping insurance rates starting at just $1.25 per $100 of declared value, ensuring you are fully covered if something goes wrong.
Can I ship large or heavy boxes internationally?
Yes. FlagShip partners with top couriers to offer international courier and freight options. Be aware of duties, taxes, and customs requirements for your destination. A customs broker can help ensure compliance and avoid delays.
How do I get a shipping quote for heavy items?
You can use the FlagShip online shipping system to get instant courier and freight quotes. Simply enter the shipment’s dimensions, weight, and destination to compare multiple couriers in seconds. Sign up is free and with no minimums or contracts.
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