Large Parcel Delivery

Carriers may interpret the term «large» package differently, but most define it as any shipment weighing more than 32 kilograms (70.55 pounds) and up to several hundred pounds. The sizes can vary greatly and often require more space than is available in conventional delivery vehicles. Such shipments may include large appliances, furniture, building materials, or industrial equipment.

These large packages are typically associated with higher large parcel shipping costs and are delivered within a longer timeframe. The shipping of bulky goods, both within Germany and across its borders, follows a strictly regulated schedule and a pre-calculated route. The process is carried out exclusively by professionals with specialized training and sufficient expertise.

Due to these characteristics of oversized packages, you should be aware of some associated problems:

• Special requirements for loading and unloading: Lifting large packages from trucks or on pallets may require forklifts or other mechanical devices to move them easily without injuring the loader's back or accidentally dropping them.
• Non-standard equipment and vehicles: For the shipping of large packages, specially designed vehicles with reinforced floors and large cargo spaces may be required, which are equipped with hydraulic lifting devices, among other things. These facilitate the shipping of big packages and save time and energy, as they are strong enough to bear the heavy weight.
• Professional packaging solutions: It is crucial to ensure the integrity of bulky items during large package shipping. For this, durable packaging material is used, which is specifically designed to accommodate heavy weights and withstand various stresses over long distances. Such packaging may include edge trimming, etc., which provides structural support against shocks, vibrations, environmental influences, dust, and moisture, preserving the condition until arrival at the final destination.
• Complex transport strategies: The routing and logistics planning for large packages is more complex than for standard shipments due to certain factors such as weight restrictions on roads, bridge capacities, or the accessibility of routes. It is also common for a combination of transportation modes to be required. Primarily, road transport is used; however, air, sea, or rail transport may also be involved. Additionally, when shipping large packages, extra logistical challenges often need to be addressed, such as special loading or repackaging.
• Regulations and compliance: The transport of this type of goods may also involve navigating various local, national, and international laws concerning the dimensions of the freight. Non-compliance can result in fines, while it is also essential to ensure the smooth operation of the entire transport process.

Therefore, international shipping of parcels weighing 20 kg or more represents a distinct segment of freight transport that requires special attention and a specific approach.

Tips for sending large parcels

Shipping large packages is not like sending a letter. Each large package must fit correctly on the pallet, and size plays a significant role.

Here are some basic tips and advice for efficient large parcel delivery:

• Choose a sturdy box: When selecting the shipping boxes, opt for durable materials, such as reinforced cardboard. These boxes provide your large packages with excellent protection during transit, reducing the risk of damage. To further increase stability, use boxes with additional layers of material or reinforcements.
• Add strong packing material: Packing materials protect the contents of the package. Using multiple layers of padding, foam inserts, or other suitable packaging helps reduce the likelihood of damage by absorbing shocks and vibrations during transit.
• Use durable adhesive tape: If you want to securely seal your boxes, you should use high-quality, durable adhesive tape. The strong adhesive tape prevents the boxes from opening during transport, ensuring that your package arrives at its destination intact.
• Get the best deals by comparing shipping rates: Take your time to review multiple shipping companies to find the one that best suits your needs. Depending on the size, weight, and delivery time of your shipment, different carriers offer varying prices. By weighing your options and choosing the cheapest way to ship large packages, you can reduce your shipping costs.
• Use a delivery platform: You can secure the best shipping rates for your packages by using our shipping platform. The system collects rates from several providers, allowing you to estimate costs and select the most affordable carrier. To further simplify the shipping process, we offer package tracking.

Follow our recommendations to ensure the safe and timely delivery of your large international parcels.

How to package a large parcel

Once upon a time, in 1913, a car sent by mail became one of the most unusual international shipments. A resourceful U.S. owner packed his Ford Model T into a crate and shipped it 2,091 kilometers by mail. Despite all precautions, the car arrived at its destination with slight damage.

It is evident that shipping large packages is no easy task and can only be accomplished with the right approach. Nowadays, there are much more modern methods to send large parcels, package them, and deliver them safely.

Packaging and labeling

Packaging and labeling are key to the successful transport of large international packages.

A package must be well-packaged before shipment to ensure it remains safe and protected during transit. By adhering to packaging regulations and using sufficient packaging materials, shipping costs can be reduced. To lower the overall weight of the packages and thereby save on shipping costs, you should use strong but lightweight materials. Don’t forget to follow the rules and instructions of the shipping companies for packaging large parcels, as these may vary depending on the carrier and destination country.

The labeling of the shipment should be clear and informative. All necessary address details should be affixed to the packaging. Use strong and noticeable markings for this purpose:

• The recipient and the sender.
• Appropriate warning signs, such as «Fragile Goods» or «Protect from Moisture».
• Some additional information about the weight, dimensions, etc., of the contents.

When the large package arrives at the destination, inquire with the recipient about the integrity of the parcel and whether it was delivered on time.

Special labeling requirements for large parcels

Oversized shipments, due to their non-standard dimensions and the specific nature of their transportation, have special requirements.

First and foremost, oversized packages must be clearly labeled on all sides to ensure that the shipment can be visually identified at every stage of delivery. The labeling must clearly indicate the exact dimensions (length, width, height) and the weight of the package.

Additionally, oversized packages must be marked with special warning signs such as «Caution! Oversized Load», «Center of Gravity», «Strictly Vertical Position», etc., so that the carriers know how to handle the package correctly. It is also recommended to mark arrows that indicate the correct vertical position of the shipment to ensure the stability and safety of the contents.

Proper packaging and labeling of oversized and bulky packages are key to successful and safe international delivery.

Large parcels: shipping costs

The 5 Key Factors Influencing the Final Transportation Costs

So, what factors affect the final costs of shipping your package, and how can you find a good deal?

1. Dimensions of your package

The first and most important factor considered when calculating the cost of transporting your package is its size and weight. The larger the package, the higher the costs. Don’t forget that different shipping companies have varying maximum limits, and exceeding them can result in higher surcharges.

2. Distance the package is transported

Shipping over longer distances incurs higher costs, for example, when more fuel or travel time is required. Therefore, shipping large packages internationally is always significantly more expensive than regional shipping. This is because the further the destination, the higher the costs.

3. Selected mode of transport

Different pricing structures apply depending on the mode of transport you choose (road, rail, or air).

4. Special conditions

Pay attention to specific loading or unloading conditions, shipping requirements, paperwork, and other factors that may affect the final cost, especially when it comes to large package shipping.

5. Insurance

For your peace of mind, we always recommend insuring your shipment, as this is a wise investment in your security. The insurance costs are determined by the value of the shipment.

Use the online calculator

With our online calculator, you can quickly and conveniently estimate the preliminary costs of shipping your large package. This allows you to estimate the costs in advance and plan your budget accordingly.

You can easily do this yourself in three steps:

• Step 1: Select your point of origin
• Step 2: Select your destination
• Step 3: Enter the parameters of your shipment: width, height, length, and weight

Once you have entered the required information, you will receive an overview of the preliminary shipping costs from various carriers. If everything is satisfactory, you can proceed with your order.

International shipping regulations for large parcels

With our shipping partners, large packages can be reliably and legally shipped worldwide. We provide customers with comprehensive advice on customs procedures, import regulations, and other formalities. By connecting to various logistics providers, merchants can find the most suitable service provider at Shipstage for their large package shipping needs.

The specific delivery conditions vary depending on the logistics provider and the country, but here are some general guidelines:

Before sending a large package abroad, you should clarify all the requirements with the delivery service you have chosen.

An overview of parcel services for shipping large parcels

If you need to ship large packages within Germany, specialized providers for large parcel delivery are often recommended. As we have already mentioned, you can easily compare the rates of different providers on our online platform and pick the best option for you. Let’s take a look at the services offered by some well-known and reliable providers:

The rates of the represented companies may sometimes be higher than those of others. But due to their professional approach, developed infrastructure, and the use of modern technologies that minimize the risk of damage, loss, or delays in freight, they fully justify their costs.

How does large package shipping work with Shipstage?

From shipping to delivery — a step-by-step guide:

1. Assemble the package: Prepare the package according to our instructions. Ensure that the size and weight of your package meet the shipping carrier's requirements.
2. Create a new shipment in your account on our platform: Select the appropriate delivery option and pay for the shipment online.
3. Shipment tracking: Monitor the delivery status of your large parcel through your personal account on our website.
4. Support at every stage: Reach out to our support team if you need further information about your parcel.

With this comprehensive shipping solution from Shipstage, you can ship large packages cheaply, conveniently, safely, and reliably. If any issues arise with the delivery, we will take care of them promptly. In such a case, simply contact our customer service.