What is a large item?

The first thing we want to do is define a large or freight item. Anything over 150lbs is considered a heavy weight item because of the 150lb weight restriction that all three of the big shipping companies have in place. We will define large items as those that fall within the 100-150 lb range. Although they fall within the weight allowance of the big three shippers (DHL, FEDEX, or UPS), and does not have to be shipped as freight, this weight range would certainly be considered large by our readers and we will focus our discussion on that weight range.

Typical items that fall within that weight range are: recliners, small dressers a small stove etc. There are two types of packing methods available for large objects. One that involves bubble wrap, blanket wrapping and shrink wrapping and the other that involves crating.

Materials Needed

Packing
Tape
Moving blankets 3.6 or 7lb filler
Packing foam
Hand acrylic packing tape

Procedure

Wrapping a large item
Typically an object such as a recliner is subject to scratching and tearing of the fabric. It does not have to be crated or put in a moving box but wrapped. Corners are the most susceptible to damage in any shipping package and should be reinforced preferably with packing foam or bubble wrap.

To wrap an item such as a recliner, it is recommended that:
1) The feet of the recliner be removed and taped (along with any tool needed) to the bottom of the chair for easy finding when unpacking.
2) All corners are protected with packing foam or bubble wrap.
3) The recliner is completely blanket wrapped using moving quality blankets and tape. Quality blankets have more filler weight.
4) The blanket is secured with packing grade acrylic tape. Use generous amounts of tape around the item to insure that the blanket does not fall off in transit.
5) Secure the Waybill onto the package with acrylic packing tape. In addition, place a copy of the waybill inside the package before wrapping.
6) Call you shipper of choice for a pickup.

Crating a large item (less than 150lbs)

An item such as a small stove or automobile part is best shipped in a crate. We are looking to avoid and dents that would not only damage the look of the item but also the ability of the item to perform its function.

Crates can either be purchased, homemade or custom made. The following are the characteristics of a good crate.

1) It should be able to handle the weight that it is carrying ie stacking
2) It should allow room for protective wrapping such as packing foam around the item
3) It should be a simple square or rectangle shape
4) Internally, it should have the ability to secure your item from moving internally in the crate
5) It should be a secure and closed box that can be readily opened by any inspectors
6) Crate panels are usually made of plywood.
7) Crate is usually reinforced with lumber

Once the item has been crated, securely attach the waybill to the outside of the crate and place an extra copy inside. Call you shipper of choice for a pickup.

A Robotics building team from Boston University have a great guide on
building a basic crate that is highly recommended.

Good Luck and Good Shipping,
Your How To Ship Advisor

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