A ton goes into a move, even a small one, especially if shipping is part of the process. Sometimes, shipping a few items to Washington, D.C. is easier than renting a truck and driving across the state or country. If your move involves a plane ride, you may be able to bring along some smaller items.
However, if you’re trying to move a large piece of furniture, you probably can’t check the item at the gate. This means you need to know how to ship packages safely to Washington, D.C. We’re covering the basic steps, along with a few ways you can save some money.
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Handle the Packing Yourself
Most shipping services will pack your items for you. Yep, this comes at a price. What it costs to have your belongings carefully packed for shipping typically depends on the service. Some charge by size and weight, while others use a flat rate.
You may not be able to pack up a bed frame, couch, or piano, some things you can probably handle without too much time and trouble. Before you rush out and grab a cardboard box and start tossing items inside, how you pack up your belongings can also affect the price.
For example, if you pack a heavy object in a cardboard box, it may not survive shipping. The shipping service may end up repacking the item, and this will be reflected on your bill. If the shipping service doesn’t repack the item, it may not arrive in the same condition it was left in. Unfortunately, since you took care of the packing, the shipping company probably isn’t liable for any damage.
So, how do you pack items for shipping while also ensuring they arrive safely? Choose the right box or container for the item. This may mean purchasing or building a wooden crate.
Calculate All Fees
Even if a shipping service charges a flat rate, it doesn’t necessarily mean there aren’t additional charges. Before dropping off your items for shipping, it’s a good idea to calculate all of the fees. This way, you’re not hit with a surprise bill.
Adding up all the associated costs also makes it a little easier to compare different shipping companies. After all, your goal is to save money while also ensuring your belongings arrive safely.
Some of the fees you may run into include charges for supplies like boxes, tape, and labels. If you handled the packing at home, these fees shouldn’t apply. With that being said, you may still end up paying for the shipping label. Don’t worry, this is a minimal cost.
Stick with Smaller and Lighter Boxes
Sometimes, there’s no getting around the fact you need a large, heavy crate to safely ship items. There’s not a lot you can do about this expense, but not all items need to be packed in a large, bulky crate.
Before you run out and purchase a few pieces of wood or a pre-assembled crate, take a look at what you’re shipping. If it can safely go into a cardboard box, this may be your most affordable option.
A good lightweight option is corrugated boxes. They’re lighter than standard cardboard boxes and a little more durable. Pay attention to your packing material. Heavy blankets and comforters do give your items plenty of protection, but the weight can also increase your shipping costs. Packing paper is lighter and can still protect fragile items. Other options include foam inserts, bubble wrap, and air pillows.
Take Advantage of Free and Low-Cost Supplies
Shipping companies are often like small stores. You can purchase everything you need to ship your belongings for a price. You should expect to see a markup on shipping supplies. An easy way to reduce overall shipping costs is to purchase or scavenge your supplies.
Grocery and retail stores often have cardboard boxes they don’t mind giving away for free. You may even be able to find some free corrugated cardboard boxes. Your local neighborhood store probably has items like tape and markers for a fraction of what you’ll pay at the shipping company. Chances are the store also carries packing paper, foam inserts, and possibly even bubble wrap.
Another option is to use old newsprint. Yes, the ink can get on your hands, but newsprint is often free. If you need something more substantial, like a wooden crate. Head to your local hardware or home improvement store. You can find inexpensive lumber and nails for a lot less than if you purchase the crate from the shipper.
Moving can be expensive, even when it’s only a few items. However, by comparing shipping rates and taking care of at least some of the packing, you can reduce your shipping costs.
