Shipping large packages can be intimidating. At Cabrella, we understand that whether it's a grand piano or a sculpture, the size and weight of your shipment can play a significant role in determining your shipping strategy — and the price tag that comes with it.

Read on to learn the ins and outs of why shipping large items tends to be more expensive and how you can potentially reduce these costs.

Why Is Shipping Large Packages More Expensive?

Shipping large packages often comes with a hefty price tag, but what drives these costs? A handful of factors are at play, each adding a layer of complexity and expense to the process. 

The dimensional weight — or the space a package occupies in relation to its weight — primarily influences the shipping rate. Larger items require more space in delivery trucks, planes, and warehouses, which limits the number of items that can be transported simultaneously. This increases the cost per unit.

Additionally, handling larger packages often requires specialized equipment or extra manpower, further adding to expenses. The risk of damage also escalates with size and weight, necessitating enhanced protective measures and, consequently, additional costs. 

How To Reduce Shipping Costs for Large Packages

Now that you know the factors driving up the costs of shipping large items, let’s talk about how to optimize your logistics. 

Consider these insider tips designed to help you streamline your shipping process and significantly reduce expenses:

Compare Carrier Rates and Services

One of the most effective ways to manage shipping costs is to compare the rates and services of different carriers. Each carrier has its strengths and pricing strategies, especially when handling large items. 

Use tools like online calculators or shipping platforms that aggregate data to compare costs, delivery times, and service options side-by-side. Some websites allow you to input a package’s dimensions and weight and compare quotes from various carriers, which makes it easier to find the best deal for your specific needs.

Optimize Packaging

Reducing the size and weight of your packaging can lead to significant cost savings. Carriers often charge based on dimensional weight for larger items, so consider using lighter materials that still adequately protect your goods. 

For instance, opt for corrugated fiberboard, air pillows, or foam inserts, which offer excellent protection without adding unnecessary weight. Reevaluate your packing process to ensure that no excess material is used — every square inch counts when you're trying to slim down bulky shipments.

Utilize Backhaul Shipping

Backhaul shipping involves using trucking companies' return trips, which would otherwise be empty, to transport your goods. This method can offer significant cost reductions because carriers are eager to avoid empty-load trips. It's an efficient use of resources and often comes with a much lower price tag. 

You can connect with logistics companies specializing in backhaul freight or inquire about possible backhaul opportunities with carriers.

Consider Consolidated Shipping Options

For those regularly shipping large items, consolidated shipping can be a game-changer. This method combines multiple shipments destined for the same region into one larger shipment. 

Not only does this approach reduce the per-unit shipping cost, but it also minimizes the chances of damage, as fewer hands are involved during transit. 

Consider using consolidated shipping to send bulk orders or replenish stock at multiple retail locations. Services like freight consolidators or LTL (less than truckload) carriers specialize in this type of shipping and offer reduced rates as they optimize space and resources across their network.

Implement Zone Skipping

Zone skipping is a logistics strategy where shipments are consolidated and transported as a single freight to a hub closer to the delivery destination, bypassing multiple carrier zones. This reduces the per-package handling and shipping costs that accumulate when carriers transfer goods through different zones. 

While it requires upfront coordination and may be more suitable for companies with significant shipping volumes, zone skipping can drastically decrease costs for cross-country shipments of large packages.

Leverage Off-Peak Shipping

Choosing to ship during off-peak times can also reduce costs. Most carriers have higher rates during peak seasons or when demand is high, such as holidays or weekdays. 

By scheduling shipments during less busy times, like mid-week or during traditionally slow periods (e.g., after New Year’s and before spring), you can take advantage of lower rates. 

Be mindful, however, that shipping off-peak might mean longer transit times. It’s important to balance cost savings with potential trade-offs in delivery speed, ensuring it aligns with your expectations — and your customers.

Use Hybrid Shipping Services

Hybrid shipping services blend various carriers' efforts to streamline costs and efficiency. This approach typically involves using one carrier for the initial part of a journey and another for the final delivery, harnessing the strengths of each at different stages. 

For example, one carrier might offer cost-effective long-haul services, while another could provide efficient local distribution. This strategy can be particularly cost-effective for large packages that may otherwise require expensive specialized handling throughout their journey. 

Companies like FedEx MultiCarrier or UPS SurePost are examples of hybrid services that leverage logistical partnerships to optimize delivery processes and costs.

Seek Out Negotiated Rates

For businesses that frequently ship large packages, negotiating rates with carriers can lead to substantial savings. Building a relationship with carriers and demonstrating a consistent shipping volume can give you leverage to negotiate better terms. 

Discuss your shipping needs and volumes with carrier representatives and explore possibilities for discounts or customized pricing plans. This approach is especially advantageous for larger companies or those with regular bulk shipping needs, as carriers often offer competitive rates to secure steady business.

Take Advantage of Association Discounts

Many industry associations offer shipping discounts as part of their membership benefits. If you're a member of a trade group or professional organization, check whether they have partnerships with shipping carriers. 

These discounts are often negotiated to be quite competitive and can include benefits for small and large shipments alike. Being part of an association can give you access to lower rates that individual companies might not be able to negotiate on their own.

What Is the Cheapest Courier for Heavy Items?

When it comes to shipping heavy items, the "cheapest" courier can often depend on multiple factors, including the item's size, weight, destination, and how quickly you need it delivered. Major couriers each have their pros and cons depending on these specifics. 

For instance, some may offer better rates for bulk or freight shipping, while others might have advantages in speed or special handling. Rather than pointing to a specific courier, it's beneficial to evaluate each one based on your particular shipping requirements. 

For particularly heavy items, freight services tend to be more cost-effective than standard shipping options, as they are specially tailored to handle larger loads economically.

How To Maximize Savings When Shipping Large Items

Successfully shipping large, heavy items without breaking the bank involves more than just choosing the right courier; it requires a strategic approach to logistics. 

One effective strategy is to partner with a logistics expert specializing in shipping large items. These professionals can provide valuable insights into the best shipping practices, optimal packaging solutions, and the most cost-effective routes. They have the expertise to navigate complex shipping rules and can help streamline your shipping process.

At Cabrella, we recognize the challenges of shipping large and heavy items. We offer customized shipping insurance solutions that protect your valuable items against loss or damage. Our platform integrates seamlessly with your existing shipping systems, allowing you to manage and track your shipments easily. 

By partnering with Cabrella, you gain access to competitive insurance rates and expert support, ensuring your large shipments are affordable and secure.

Trust Your Large Packages to Cabrella

And there you have it — the essentials of finding cost-effective solutions for shipping large packages. Whether you're shipping furniture, machinery, or any bulky item, the strategies here can help you minimize costs while maximizing efficiency. 

Remember, the cheapest option isn't always about the lowest sticker price. Instead, it's about finding the value that best fits your shipping needs, ensuring your items arrive safely and on time.

Looking to streamline your shipping process further? With Cabrella’s expertise and technology, we can help you conquer logistics once and for all. Reach out to Cabrella today to see how we can help protect your shipments and reduce your overall costs. You’ll be glad you did.

Sources:

What is Dimensional Weight? | FedEx

What is Corrugated | Fibre Box Association

Zone skipping vs. direct shipment of small orders | ScienceDirect

Mastering how to negotiate shipping rates | PayPal