Shipping large items in Australia can be challenging, especially when dealing with fragile or heavy goods. This guide explores the best way to ship large, heavy items, from choosing the right packaging to understanding your courier options. We’ll also share tips on protecting your items, calculating shipping costs, and properly packing oversized goods, helping you get bulky items to their destination safely and affordably.
When you're packing a large box for shipping, it’s only natural to worry about whether it will arrive in one piece. Fragile items — even when shipped in oversized packages — need the right protection to ensure they reach their destination safely.
But how do you go about packing and shipping large items? The key is knowing how to ship large items in Australia safely and efficiently.
Key Takeaways:
- Use strong, double-walled boxes and robust packing materials to protect large, heavy items.
- Choose the right shipping method — Australia Post, courier, or freight — based on size and weight.
- Shop PackQueen’s shipping boxes for durable packaging options made for heavy goods.
How to Pack Large Items for Shipping: 4 Tips
Whether you're shipping large items locally or internationally, the following tips will help ensure your packaging is secure and shipment ready.
1. Use a Strong, Sturdy Box
Many shipments are damaged simply because the box wasn’t up to the task. You’ll want something heavy-duty — the sturdier, the better. Always use a new, double-walled cardboard box if possible, as reused boxes lose their structural integrity over time.
Pro tip: Check out our shipping boxes collection for strong cartons ideal for shipping large items in Australia.
2. Choose the Right Shipping Method
There are several ways to ship large packages, and the right method depends on your item’s size and weight. Options include:
- Australia Post for parcels under 22kg
- Courier services like Sendle or CouriersPlease
- Freight companies for larger or heavier goods
Understanding the dimensional weight (size and mass) of your package is key. The more fragile the item, the more careful you'll need to be in choosing your shipping service. Knowing how to ship large items through the right channel can save you money and reduce the risk of damage.
3. Use Quality Packing Materials
Don’t skimp on packing materials — especially when you're dealing with heavy or oversized goods. Use:
- Bubble wrap or kraft paper
- Foam inserts
- Void fillers like packing peanuts
- Strong packaging tape
It might be tempting to cut corners with cheaper supplies, but investing in robust materials pays off. If available, formed styrofoam or custom inserts provide maximum stability for shipping large items.
4. Divide Your Package Into Multiple Shipments if Possible
If your item is made up of multiple parts, consider splitting it into smaller, more manageable boxes. Not only can this reduce shipping costs, but it may also be safer and easier for couriers to handle. This is especially helpful when you’re figuring out how to pack large items for shipping in a way that avoids damage.
Final Thoughts: Packing and Shipping Large Items Safely
By selecting the right materials, using strong shipping boxes, and choosing an appropriate courier, you’ll be better equipped to handle even the bulkiest of shipments. Remember: proper preparation is the key to successfully shipping large items in Australia without damage or delays.
Need help choosing the right boxes? View our full range of shipping and cardboard boxes made for heavy-duty applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best way to ship heavy items across Australia?
Use a strong, double-walled box and compare courier and freight services based on your item’s size and weight.
Where can I find boxes suitable for large items?
Visit our shipping boxes collection to find heavy-duty cartons in various sizes.
Can I ship large items through Australia Post?
Australia Post has weight and size limits—usually up to 22kg. For heavier shipments, look into courier or freight services.
