Shipping a TV can cost anywhere from $50 to over $1000, depending on several factors. The main things that change the price are the size and weight of the TV, how far it needs to go, the shipping method you pick, and how well it is packed. Using a specialized service or adding shipping insurance for TV will also add to the total cost. Getting a TV shipping cost estimate requires looking at these different parts.
Shipping a flat screen TV needs careful planning. TVs are big, heavy, and easy to break. Sending one through the mail or a standard carrier is very different from sending a small box. This guide will break down all the things that affect the price and show you how to do it right.
Image Source: redstagfulfillment.com
Grasping the Main Cost Factors
Many things come together to decide the final price when you ship a TV. Knowing these factors helps you figure out how much it might cost and how to save money.
Size and Weight Matter
This is one of the biggest things that change the price. Shipping large screen TV sets costs more than smaller ones.
- Larger TVs: Take up more space on a truck or plane.
- Heavier TVs: Cost more to move because of their weight.
Shipping companies charge based on either the actual weight or the dimensional weight (how much space it takes up), whichever is greater. For large TVs, dimensional weight is often used. This means a big box around a lightweight TV can still be expensive to ship.
Think about a 32-inch TV versus a 70-inch TV. The 70-inch TV needs a much larger box and more packing stuff. It will also weigh more. All these things push the shipping price up.
Distance Plays a Big Role
How far your TV travels is key to the cost.
- Short distances: Shipping within the same city or state is usually cheaper.
- Long distances: Shipping across the country costs a lot more.
Shipping companies divide the country into zones. The more zones your package crosses, the higher the price. Shipping from coast to coast will cost much more than shipping to a neighboring state. This is because of fuel costs, transit time, and handling across more locations.
How You Send It Changes the Price
There are different ways to ship things. The method you choose affects both speed and cost.
- Ground Shipping: This is the most common and usually the cheapest way. It takes longer, but it’s good for less urgent shipments. UPS Ground and FedEx Ground are examples.
- Air Shipping (Express/Expedited): This is much faster but also much more expensive. If you need the TV there in 1 or 2 days, you’ll pay a lot more.
- Freight Shipping: For very large or multiple items, freight might be needed. This is often used for things that ship on pallets. While it can be cheaper per pound for very heavy items, it involves different steps like arranging pickup and delivery at docks or using liftgates. Freight shipping TV cost applies here.
Choosing the right method depends on how fast you need the TV to arrive and your budget. Most people shipping a single TV choose ground shipping to save money.
Packing is Super Important (and Costs Money)
How well your TV is packed is critical for its safety. It also adds to the cost.
- Doing it Yourself (DIY): You buy the packing materials. This can save you money on labor but costs time and you need the right stuff.
- Getting Professional Packing: Stores like UPS Store or FedEx Office can pack your TV for you. This costs more but gives you peace of mind and often meets carrier requirements for insurance. This is part of the cost to pack and ship TV.
Proper packing means using the right box (ideally the original one), lots of padding (bubble wrap, foam inserts), and strong tape. A poorly packed TV is likely to break and might not be covered by insurance.
Adding Insurance is a Good Idea
TVs are expensive. If something goes wrong during shipping, shipping insurance for TV can protect your money.
- Basic Coverage: Most carriers include a small amount of basic coverage (like $100) for free.
- Extra Insurance: You can pay extra to insure the TV for its full value. This cost is usually based on the declared value of the TV.
The cost of insurance is often a small percentage of the value you are insuring. While it adds to the total price, it’s often worth it, especially for costly TVs. Not getting enough insurance is a big risk.
The Value You Declare
When you ship something, you might have to tell the shipping company how much it is worth. This is called the declared value.
- Declared Value: This value is used to figure out the cost of extra insurance.
- Higher Value: Means higher insurance cost.
Even if you don’t buy extra insurance, the declared value might affect how the carrier handles the package or their liability if something goes wrong.
Who You Ship With Matters
Different companies have different prices and rules for shipping large, fragile items like TVs.
- Major Carriers: FedEx and UPS are common choices. They have services for large items but can be expensive. We’ll look at FedEx TV shipping price and UPS TV shipping cost.
- USPS: The post office (USPS) has size limits that make it hard or impossible to ship most flat screen TVs. It’s usually not an option for anything but the smallest monitors.
- Specialized Shippers: Companies that specialize in shipping fragile or valuable items, like artwork or furniture. They often use blankets and careful handling. This can be more expensive but safer.
- Freight Companies: For very large shipments, including multiple TVs or oversized ones, freight might be necessary.
Each carrier has its own way of figuring out prices, its own rules for packing, and different levels of service.
Deciphering Carrier Options and Costs
Let’s look closer at the main options for shipping a TV.
UPS TV Shipping Cost
UPS ships packages up to 150 lbs and 108 inches long (or 165 inches in length plus girth). Most TVs fit within these limits.
- Services Offered: UPS Ground is the most common choice for cost savings. Faster options like UPS 3 Day Select, 2nd Day Air, and Next Day Air are available but cost much more.
- How They Charge: Based on weight, size, distance, and speed. They also use dimensional weight. Large, light boxes might be charged based on their size, not just their weight.
- Packing: UPS recommends professional packing for fragile items like TVs, especially for insurance claims. You can get it packed at a UPS Store. The cost to pack and ship TV professionally at a UPS Store includes materials and labor. This adds to the UPS TV shipping cost.
- Getting a Quote: You can get a UPS TV shipping cost estimate online using their website or by visiting a UPS Store. You’ll need the exact weight and dimensions of the packed box, the origin zip code, and the destination zip code.
- Example Costs: Shipping a 50-inch TV (maybe 50 lbs packed) from California to New York via UPS Ground could cost anywhere from $150 to $400 or more, depending on the exact size and packing. Add professional packing, and it could be another $50-$100+.
FedEx TV Shipping Price
FedEx also ships large items similar to UPS, with size and weight limits that most TVs fit.
- Services Offered: FedEx Ground is the standard, cheaper option. Faster services like FedEx Express Saver, 2Day, and Standard Overnight are available at higher prices.
- How They Charge: Similar to UPS, they use weight, size, distance, and speed. Dimensional weight applies.
- Packing: FedEx also offers professional packing services at FedEx Office locations. This is a good option for how to ship a flat screen TV safely if you don’t have the original box or materials. The cost to pack and ship TV professionally at FedEx adds to the FedEx TV shipping price.
- Getting a Quote: Get a FedEx TV shipping price estimate on their website or at a FedEx Office store. You’ll need the same details: packed size, weight, origin/destination zip codes.
- Example Costs: Shipping the same 50-inch TV (50 lbs packed) from California to New York via FedEx Ground would likely be in a similar range as UPS, maybe $140 to $380 or more. Professional packing would be an extra fee.
Comparing FedEx TV shipping price and UPS TV shipping cost often shows they are quite similar for standard ground service. It’s always best to get quotes from both for your specific TV and route.
Specialized Shippers and Freight
For very large or high-value TVs, or if you’re shipping multiple items, specialized movers or freight might be a better fit. Freight shipping TV cost can sometimes be lower for very heavy items compared to standard parcel carriers, but it’s a different process.
- Specialized Movers: Companies like uShip (an online marketplace for shipping) or dedicated art/furniture movers. They often offer ‘white glove’ service, which includes careful handling and sometimes even unpacking at the destination. They often use blankets and secure strapping instead of standard boxing.
- Cost: Can be higher than ground shipping with major carriers, potentially $300 – $1000+ for cross-country, but service is usually better. Good for expensive or large screen TVs.
- Freight Shipping: Used for items too large or heavy for parcel services, often on pallets. Requires arranging pickup, potentially using a liftgate at residential addresses (extra fee), and delivery.
- Cost: Varies widely based on size, weight, distance, and service level (e.g., residential delivery with liftgate costs more). Freight shipping TV cost could range from $200 to $800+ for a single TV, possibly less per item if shipping many. It’s usually more complex than just dropping a box off.
Interpreting Packing Choices and Costs
Packing a TV properly is not just about protecting it; it’s also key to meeting carrier requirements and getting insurance coverage. This makes up a big part of the cost to pack and ship TV.
How to Ship a Flat Screen TV Yourself (DIY Packing)
If you choose to pack the TV yourself, you need the right materials and must do it carefully.
- Best Case: Use the original box and packing materials. These are designed specifically for your TV model. If you kept them, this is the easiest and safest way.
- Second Best: Buy a TV shipping box kit. These are available at moving supply stores, carrier stores, or online. They include a special box, foam edge protectors, and padding.
-
Packing Steps:
- Turn off and unplug the TV. Let it cool down.
- Remove the stand (if attached) and put screws/parts in a bag. Tape the bag to the TV.
- Wrap the TV screen and body in soft material (like a moving blanket or foam sheet) to prevent scratches.
- If using the original box, place the TV inside with its original foam inserts.
- If using a kit, place foam edge protectors on all sides of the TV. Wrap the TV in plenty of bubble wrap (large bubbles are best).
- Carefully slide the wrapped TV into the TV box.
- Fill any empty space in the box with more padding (foam peanuts, crumpled paper, more bubble wrap) so the TV can’t move around.
- Close the box and tape all seams securely with strong packing tape (not regular household tape). Use the H-taping method (tape along all edges and across the middle seam).
- Clearly label the box with shipping labels. Write “FRAGILE” and “THIS SIDE UP” on multiple sides, but remember carriers don’t guarantee they’ll follow these notes; proper packing is your real protection.
-
Cost of DIY Materials: If you don’t have the original box, you’ll need to buy supplies.
- TV Box Kit: $20 – $60+ depending on size.
- Bubble Wrap: $10 – $30+ for a large roll.
- Packing Tape: $5 – $10 per roll.
- Foam Inserts/Peanuts: $10 – $30+.
- Total DIY Material Cost: $40 – $130 or more, depending on TV size and what you buy.
Professional Packing Services
Paying a carrier store (like UPS Store or FedEx Office) or a moving company to pack your TV adds to the cost but offers benefits.
- What They Do: They have special boxes and materials for electronics. They are trained in packing fragile items. They will measure, pack, and prepare it for shipping.
- Cost: The cost to pack a TV professionally is separate from the shipping cost. It includes the box, packing materials, and labor.
- Packing a Medium TV (e.g., 40-55 inch): $50 – $150+.
- Packing a Large TV (e.g., 60+ inch): $100 – $200+.
- Benefit: Some carriers require professional packing for items like TVs to cover them under shipping insurance, especially for high values. If you pack it yourself, they might deny a claim if the packing wasn’t deemed sufficient.
When considering the cost to pack and ship TV, think about the value of the TV and your comfort level with packing fragile items. Professional packing costs more upfront but can save you from a costly broken TV later.
Finding the Cheapest Way to Ship TV
Everyone wants to save money. The cheapest way to ship TV usually involves making smart choices on the factors we’ve discussed.
- Choose Ground Shipping: Always pick the slowest ground service unless speed is critical. Air shipping costs much more.
- Pack It Yourself (If Confident): DIY packing materials are usually cheaper than professional packing services. However, remember the risk to the TV and potential insurance issues.
- Use the Original Box: If you still have it, this saves you the cost of buying a new TV box kit. It’s also the safest option.
- Compare Carriers: Get a TV shipping cost estimate from both UPS and FedEx for your specific shipment. Prices can vary slightly, and sometimes one is running a promotion.
- Consider Specialized Movers for Large/Valuable TVs: While potentially more expensive than ground parcel, they might offer better value for very high-end TVs where the risk of damage is the primary concern. A higher service level might be the cheapest option in terms of total risk.
- Reduce Size/Weight (If Possible): Removing the stand and packing it separately can sometimes help make the main box smaller or lighter.
Keep in mind that the “cheapest” way isn’t always the best way. The best way balances cost with the safety of your TV. Saving $50 on shipping isn’t worth it if your $500 TV arrives broken.
Getting a TV Shipping Cost Estimate
Knowing how to get a quote is vital for planning. A TV shipping cost calculator is a tool provided by carriers or third-party sites.
How to Use Online Calculators
Major carriers like UPS and FedEx have online tools to give you an estimate.
- Go to the Carrier’s Website: Look for a “Ship” or “Get a Quote” section.
- Enter Origin and Destination: You’ll need the full addresses or at least the zip codes for where it’s coming from and where it’s going.
- Enter Package Details: This is where weight and dimensions are needed. Measure your packed box accurately. For dimensions, you need length, width, and height. For weight, weigh the packed box on a reliable scale. Be as exact as possible, as small differences can change the price due to dimensional weight rules.
- Select Shipping Method: Choose the speed you want (e.g., Ground, 3 Day, Overnight).
- Add Extra Services: This includes declaring value or adding extra shipping insurance for TV beyond the basic coverage.
- Get Estimate: The calculator will give you a price range or a specific quote for different service levels.
Other Ways to Get Estimates
- Visit a Carrier Store: Go to a UPS Store or FedEx Office. They can measure and weigh your packed TV and give you a precise quote. If you need packing services, they can include that cost too.
- Call Carrier Customer Service: You can call UPS or FedEx directly, but having your package details ready is a must.
- Use Third-Party Shipping Comparison Sites: Some websites let you enter your package details and compare prices from multiple carriers at once. Be sure to check reviews and understand their service.
Remember that online estimates are sometimes just that – estimates. The final price can change slightly based on exact weight/measurements taken by the carrier.
Specifics for Shipping Large Screen TV
Shipping large screen TV sets (say, 60 inches and up) comes with extra challenges and costs.
- Higher Weight and Dimensions: These TVs are heavier and much larger, making them more likely to be charged based on dimensional weight. This significantly increases the cost.
- Risk of Damage: Larger screens are more fragile and prone to flexing or cracking if not handled perfectly. Proper, robust packing is absolutely essential.
- Limited Shipping Options: Very large or heavy TVs might exceed the standard limits of some parcel services, potentially forcing you into using freight or specialized movers, which have different pricing structures.
- Professional Packing Highly Recommended: For expensive, large screen TV sets, the cost of professional packing is often a wise investment. They have the large, reinforced boxes and specialized foam needed.
- Increased Insurance Cost: A larger TV is usually more expensive, meaning the cost of shipping insurance for TV will be higher because it’s based on the declared value.
When planning to ship a large screen TV, expect the cost to be on the higher end of the estimates. Get quotes specifically for the large size.
Interpreting Shipping Insurance for TV
Getting shipping insurance for TV is a crucial step to protect your investment.
Why You Need It
Even with the best packing, accidents happen during transit. Packages can be dropped, crushed, or lost.
- Protect Against Damage: Insurance covers the cost of repairs or replacement if your TV gets damaged during shipping.
- Protect Against Loss: If the package is lost and never reaches its destination, insurance covers the value.
How It Works
- Declare Value: You tell the carrier the value of the TV.
- Pay Premium: You pay an extra fee based on the declared value (usually a few dollars per $100 of value).
- Carrier’s Liability: Standard carrier liability is usually very low (e.g., $100). You need to pay extra for coverage above this.
- Making a Claim: If the TV is damaged or lost, you file a claim with the shipping carrier. You’ll need proof of the TV’s value and proof of the damage (photos, inspection reports).
- Packing Clause: Be aware that carriers may deny insurance claims if the item was not packed according to their guidelines. Professional packing often helps ensure compliance.
Cost of Insurance
The cost of shipping insurance for TV varies by carrier but is typically around $1 to $3 for every $100 of value declared above the basic included amount.
- Example: If your TV is worth $1000, and the carrier includes $100 free coverage, you might pay insurance on the extra $900. At $1.50 per $100, that’s $13.50 in insurance cost.
- For a $5000 TV, insuring the extra $4900 might cost around $73.50.
It seems like an added cost, but compared to the price of replacing a broken TV, it’s usually a small fee for peace of mind.
Putting It All Together: Estimated Costs
Here is a simple table showing estimated TV shipping cost ranges based on different factors. These are just rough numbers; always get a specific quote.
| TV Size | Weight (Packed Estimate) | Distance | Shipping Method | Estimated Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 32-40 inch | 25-40 lbs | Short (e.g., 300 mi) | Ground | $50 – $100 | DIY Packing |
| 32-40 inch | 25-40 lbs | Long (e.g., 2500 mi) | Ground | $100 – $200 | DIY Packing |
| 32-40 inch | 25-40 lbs | Long (e.g., 2500 mi) | Ground | $150 – $300+ | Professional Packing included |
| 40-55 inch | 40-60 lbs | Short (e.g., 300 mi) | Ground | $80 – $150 | DIY Packing |
| 40-55 inch | 40-60 lbs | Long (e.g., 2500 mi) | Ground | $150 – $350 | DIY Packing |
| 40-55 inch | 40-60 lbs | Long (e.g., 2500 mi) | Ground | $200 – $450+ | Professional Packing included |
| 60-75 inch | 70-100 lbs | Short (e.g., 300 mi) | Ground | $120 – $250 | DIY Packing (if possible) |
| 60-75 inch | 70-100 lbs | Long (e.g., 2500 mi) | Ground | $250 – $600 | DIY Packing (if possible) |
| 60-75 inch | 70-100 lbs | Long (e.g., 2500 mi) | Ground | $350 – $700+ | Professional Packing recommended |
| 75+ inch | 100+ lbs | Any | Ground | $400 – $800+ | Likely requires freight/specialized mover |
| 75+ inch | 100+ lbs | Any | Freight/Spec. | $500 – $1200+ | Recommended |
Note: These costs do not typically include shipping insurance for TV above basic coverage. Add 1-3% of the TV’s value for that.
Practical Tips for Shipping a TV
- Keep the Original Box: Seriously, this is the best packing material you can have. Store it if you can.
- Take Photos: Before packing, during packing, and of the final packed box. If you need to file an insurance claim, these photos are proof of the TV’s condition before shipping and how it was packed.
- Clean the TV: Make sure it’s clean before packing.
- Remove Batteries: Take batteries out of the remote.
- Double Check Address: Make sure the shipping address is correct to avoid issues.
- Require Signature: For valuable items, ask the carrier to require a signature upon delivery. This helps ensure it doesn’t get left on a porch.
- Compare Quotes: Use a TV shipping cost calculator or get quotes from UPS and FedEx to find the best rate for your needs.
- Factor in Total Cost: The cost to pack and ship TV includes materials (DIY) or service fees (professional), the shipping rate, and insurance. Don’t just look at the shipping rate.
- Know Carrier Rules: Check the specific carrier’s rules for shipping electronics, including packing requirements and prohibited items.
Following these steps and understanding the cost factors will help you ship your TV safely and at a predictable price. Whether you’re looking for the cheapest way to ship TV or the safest way to ship large screen TV, doing your homework pays off.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it cheaper to ship a TV unpacked?
No. You must pack a TV to ship it with any standard carrier. Shipping companies will not accept an unpacked TV. Even if they did, it would almost certainly be destroyed in transit. The cost to pack is part of the total shipping cost.
Can I ship a TV through USPS?
For most modern flat screen TVs (40 inches or larger), probably not. USPS has strict size limits that most TVs exceed. Their service is best for smaller, less fragile items. FedEx and UPS are generally the go-to for TV shipping.
How much does it cost to ship a 50-inch TV?
Shipping a 50-inch TV via ground service within the same region might cost $80-$150. Shipping it across the country could cost $150-$400 or more, depending on packing method (DIY vs professional) and the specific carrier/service. This is just a TV shipping cost estimate; always get a quote.
Is it safe to ship a TV?
Yes, it can be safe if it’s packed very well, shipped with a reputable carrier, and ideally, insured. The risk comes from improper packing and handling. Using the original box or professional packing greatly improves safety.
Does the type of TV (LED, OLED, Plasma) change shipping cost?
Not directly based on the technology, but it affects weight and value. Older Plasma TVs were much heavier than modern LED or OLED TVs of the same size. Higher value TVs cost more to insure. The physical size and packed weight are the main factors for the base shipping rate.
How long does it take to ship a TV?
Using standard ground shipping, it can take anywhere from 1 to 7 business days, depending on the distance. Cross-country shipping usually takes 5-7 days. Faster shipping options are available but cost much more.
What is dimensional weight?
Dimensional weight is a pricing method used by shipping carriers. It’s calculated based on the size (volume) of the package, not just its actual weight. If the dimensional weight is higher than the actual weight, you pay based on the dimensional weight. This prevents people from shipping very large, lightweight items cheaply. It’s common for large, bulky items like packed TVs.
Can I use a TV shipping cost calculator online?
Yes, both FedEx and UPS have tools on their websites. You’ll need to enter the packed box’s dimensions, weight, origin zip code, and destination zip code.
Is shipping insurance for TV worth it?
For most TVs, especially those valued at more than a few hundred dollars, yes. The cost of insurance is small compared to the price of a new TV. It provides financial protection if the TV is damaged or lost during shipping, provided it was packed correctly.