The Cheapest Way to Ship Heavy Items
Shipping heavy items can get expensive fast—especially if you’re using the wrong carrier or packaging method. Whether you’re sending gym equipment, electronics, bulk materials, or dense products like tools and auto parts, it’s essential to understand how to minimize costs without compromising delivery reliability.
Here’s how to ship heavy packages in the most affordable and efficient way possible.
Compare carrier rates for heavy packages
Different carriers price heavy shipments in dramatically different ways:
- UPS Ground: Often the most affordable and reliable for domestic heavy packages. UPS also offers discounts for high-volume shippers.
- FedEx Ground: Similar to UPS, with competitive pricing and strong tracking features.
- Freight services (e.g., FedEx Freight, UPS Freight): Best for shipments over 150 lbs or large pallets. Many platforms provide quotes for less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping.
Use rate comparison tools on platforms like Pirate Ship, Easyship, or ShipStation to find the cheapest shipping option based on weight and destination.
Use efficient packaging to avoid surcharges
Heavy packages are often penalized not just for weight, but for size. Avoid oversized boxes unless necessary and keep your packaging compact. Use reinforced boxes with double-walled cardboard and minimize void space with dense packing materials like corrugated inserts or kraft paper.
Watch out for dimensional weight and fees
Carriers apply surcharges for packages over 50 lbs (or even 30 lbs, depending on the carrier). Some also charge additional handling or oversized fees if your box exceeds specific dimensions. Read up on UPS’s fee structure and FedEx surcharges before printing your label.
Consider local or regional carriers
In some cases, regional delivery services offer cheaper rates for bulky items traveling short distances. Carriers like OnTrac or LaserShip can undercut national brands for localized shipping zones.
Offset supply costs with cashback apps
Shipping heavy items means you’ll go through a lot of supplies: reinforced tape, heavy-duty boxes, labels, and cushioning materials. You can save by using cashback platforms like Fluz to earn cashback with a Staples gift card, buy discounted packaging from Office Depot, or get Walmart shipping supplies with instant rewards. These small savings add up quickly with repeat orders.
Buy in bulk to reduce per-package costs
Purchase shipping materials in larger quantities to reduce unit pricing. Look for multi-pack discounts on thermal labels, stretch wrap, and branded tape. You can also use cashback platforms like Rakuten or Ibotta to save when restocking these essentials online.
Final thoughts
Shipping heavy items doesn’t have to eat into your profits. With smart carrier selection, compact packaging, and cashback tools like Fluz, you can make your logistics operation more affordable—without slowing down delivery or sacrificing reliability.
