Shipping a dresser shouldn’t cost more than the furniture itself.
Yet most people pay far more than necessary because they don’t understand their options. They choose the first quote they receive, skip essential packing steps, or fall for “comprehensive” services that add zero value.
The result? Damaged furniture, surprise fees, and shipping costs that spiral out of control.
Here’s the reality: You can ship a dresser safely for a fraction of what most companies charge. You just need the right strategy.
This guide shows you exactly how to ship furniture without the markup, delays, or damaged goods. We’ll walk you through every decision point, from choosing between LTL and white glove services to packing techniques that prevent most transport damage.
What you’ll learn
How to prepare and pack your dresser safely for transport
Which shipping method fits your budget and timeline best
Real cost breakdowns with no hidden surprises
Professional vs DIY decision framework
Common pitfalls and how to avoid costly mistakes
TL;DR:
Key takeaways
LTL services typically offer the best value for dresser shipping
Proper packing significantly reduces damage risk during transit
DIY packing provides substantial savings over professional packing services
Weight and dimensions determine the shipping method more than the actual value
Planning ahead during off-peak seasons can cut costs significantly
Preparing your dresser for shipping
Proper preparation forms the foundation of successful furniture transport. Taking time to measure, document, and prep your dresser prevents costly surprises and ensures a smooth transit through the shipping process.
Before you can select shipping companies or calculate costs, you need accurate measurements and weight. Average dresser weight ranges from 200-300 pounds, with heavy solid wood dressers exceeding 300 pounds³. These numbers directly impact which shipping methods are available and how much you’ll pay.
Understanding your furniture’s specifications helps providers give accurate quotes and ensures your package meets their requirements. Dresser weight breakdown by size shows significant variation – Small (3-drawer): 30-70 lbs, Medium (5-6 drawer): 70-150 lbs, Large (7+ drawers): 150-300+ lbs⁴.
PRO TIP: Measure twice, ship once. Use a reliable scale and measuring tape, and add 2-3 inches to each dimension for packaging materials. This prevents last-minute surprises that could delay your package or trigger additional fees.
Documentation becomes crucial for insurance claims and damage prevention. Take detailed photos from multiple angles, noting any existing scratches, dents, or wear. This creates a baseline condition record that protects you if issues arise during transit.
The disassembly process requires careful attention to detail. Remove all drawers and store them separately or pack them securely inside the main frame. Remove hardware like knobs, handles, and any removable shelves. Place all small parts in labeled bags and tape them securely to the main piece.
When preparing to ship furniture professionally, companies often require specific packaging standards. Professional moving blankets, corner protectors, and shrink wrap provide essential protection during the multiple handling points your dresser will encounter.
NOTE: Most transportation companies require that furniture be wrapped and protected, even if you’re handling the packing yourself. Inadequate protection can void damage claims and leave you responsible for any repairs needed.
DIY dresser packing methods
Professional-grade packing techniques are accessible to anyone willing to invest time and attention to detail. The right approach protects your dresser while keeping costs manageable compared to full-service options.
Essential moving supplies include strong moving boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, robust packing tape, and moving blankets with different quality levels⁵. For furniture transport, focus on heavy-duty materials that can withstand the rigors of professional handling.
Moving blanket quality is determined by three factors: fabric type (non-woven polyester, woven polyester, cotton/poly blends), weight (heavier = higher quality), and binding material⁶. Invest in professional-grade blankets rather than lightweight alternatives that may tear during handling.
ALERT: Cheap packing materials often cost more in the long run. Thin blankets that tear, weak tape that fails, or inadequate corner protection can result in damage claims that far exceed shipping cost savings.
The wrapping process follows a systematic approach. Start by cleaning your dresser thoroughly and applying corner protectors to vulnerable edges. Wrap the entire piece in moving blankets, ensuring complete coverage with no gaps. Secure blankets with packing tape, but avoid taping directly to finished surfaces.
Professional packing techniques include packing heavier items on the bottom, wrapping items individually in packing paper or bubble wrap, and filling empty spaces to prevent shifting⁷. For dressers, this means securing drawers inside the frame or packing them separately with adequate cushioning.
Custom crating offers maximum protection but comes with higher costs and complexity. For valuable antiques or delicate pieces, wooden crates provide superior protection against impacts and moisture. However, blanket wrapping combined with proper handling proves sufficient for most standard furniture pieces.
The choice between crating and blanket wrapping depends on your dresser’s value, fragility, and your risk tolerance. Transport companies handle thousands of wrapped pieces daily with excellent safety records when proper techniques are used.
Choosing the right shipping method
Four primary transport options exist for furniture, each with distinct advantages and cost structures. Understanding these differences helps you select the approach that balances your budget, timeline, and service requirements.
LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) transport combines cargo from multiple customers, optimizing space and cost efficiency for packages typically ranging from 150 to 15,000 pounds. This method works particularly well for furniture because it’s designed for items too large for standard parcel services but too small to fill an entire truck.
Pros
Excellent value for furniture
Cons
Involves multiple handling points, increasing touch points during transport
LTL transport travels on a hub system where furniture exchanges trucks several times before reaching the destination, and typically requires palletizing furniture in wooden crates or on pallets. This systematic approach ensures efficient routing while maintaining competitive pricing.
White glove delivery services provide premium handling with inside delivery and setup options. These services include blanket wrapping, careful handling, and delivery to the room of your choice, though they come with premium pricing.
Standard parcel transport rarely works for furniture due to size and weight restrictions. UPS and FedEx both have 150-pound weight limits and 180-inch length limits for standard packages, with extra fees for heavier/larger items requiring specialized services. Most dressers exceed these limits and automatically require professional handling.
Moving company services offer comprehensive solutions, including packing, loading, transport, and setup. These full-service options cost more but eliminate virtually all work on your end.
NOTE: Your dresser’s dimensions and weight determine the transport method more than its value. A lightweight modern dresser might qualify for parcel transport, while a solid wood antique requires professional handling regardless of monetary worth.
The key factors in method selection include urgency, budget, handling preferences, and delivery requirements. LTL services offer the best balance of cost and service for most furniture transport, while white glove delivery provides maximum convenience at premium pricing.
READ MORE: For comprehensive logistics services that handle complex decisions, explore our comprehensive logistics services.
Dresser shipping costs breakdown
Realistic cost expectations prevent budget surprises and help you plan effectively. Furniture transport costs vary significantly based on size, weight, distance, and service level, but understanding typical ranges guides better decision-making.
| Dresser size | Weight range | Shipping cost |
|---|---|---|
| Small (3-drawer) | 30-70 lbs | $300-600 |
| Medium (5-6 drawer) | 70-150 lbs | $500-800 |
| Large (7+ drawers) | 150-300+ lbs | $700-1,200 |
The average furniture transport cost is $2,400, with a typical range of $800-3,000 depending on size, destination, and other factors. However, individual pieces like dressers typically fall at the lower end of this range due to their compact size relative to full room sets.
Per-mile rates for furniture transport often start at $0.60-$1.00 per mile for the first 500 miles, with decreasing rates for longer distances. This distance-based pricing means cross-country moves cost proportionally less per mile than short regional transport.
PRO TIP: Get quotes for both directions if you’re moving multiple items. Sometimes, combining packages or timing deliveries strategically can reduce overall costs through route optimization.
Long-distance moves command higher absolute costs but better per-mile value. Cross-country furniture transport costs range from $300 to 2,000 per piece, with full household moves averaging $2,000 to 8,000 depending on volume, distance, and service level. Planning multiple pieces together often yields better per-item pricing.
Hidden costs can significantly impact your total investment. Common additional fees include fuel surcharges, residential delivery charges, inside delivery fees, and appointment scheduling costs. 2024 rate increases averaged 5.9% for both UPS and FedEx, with higher increases for longer distances (zones 5-8 saw 6.39% increases vs 5.91% for zones 2-4).
ALERT: Always request detailed quotes that itemize all potential fees. “Base rate” quotes rarely reflect the final cost to ship once surcharges and service fees are added.
Seasonal pricing fluctuations affect furniture transport significantly. Summer months typically see higher rates due to peak moving season, while winter offers better pricing but potentially longer transit times due to weather delays.
Understanding the full cost to ship your dresser requires factoring in packing materials, insurance coverage, and any special handling requirements. Budget an additional 15-20% above quoted rates to account for potential surcharges and unforeseen circumstances.
Professional vs DIY shipping comparison
The decision between professional and DIY furniture transport depends on your specific situation, available time, and risk tolerance. Each approach offers distinct advantages that appeal to different priorities.
Professional packing services make sense for high-value antique pieces, complex multi-piece bedroom sets, or when time constraints prevent DIY preparation. These services include assessment, packing, labeling, and often insurance coverage that provides comprehensive protection.
When you ship furniture through professional services, experts handle every detail from initial evaluation through final delivery. This comprehensive approach eliminates guesswork but comes with premium pricing that reflects the expertise and liability coverage provided.
DIY transport offers substantial savings of 40-60% compared to full-service options. These savings come primarily from eliminated labor costs, though you assume responsibility for proper packing techniques and damage prevention.
NOTE: DIY success requires honest assessment of your skills and available time. Inadequate packing can result in damage costs that exceed professional service fees, making the “budget” option ultimately more expensive.
The piece of furniture’s value and fragility should heavily influence your decision. A $200 dresser might justify DIY approaches, while a $5,000 antique warrants professional handling despite higher upfront costs.
Insurance considerations differ significantly between approaches. Professional services typically include coverage as part of their package, while DIY shippers must arrange separate coverage or accept standard limitations. Standard coverage rarely exceeds $0.60 per pound, which may inadequately protect valuable pieces.
Time investment represents another crucial factor. DIY packing requires several hours for proper preparation, plus time for coordination and documentation. Professional services eliminate this time commitment but require advance scheduling that may not accommodate urgent timelines.
READ MORE: When evaluating professional service options, consult our guide to top-rated logistics providers for recommendations and service comparisons.
Top shipping companies for furniture
Major shipping companies offer different strengths in furniture transport, with specialized services and pricing structures that favor different shipper needs. Understanding these differences helps optimize your selection.
UPS provides comprehensive services with strong domestic coverage and competitive pricing for regular shippers. UPS generally offers more cost-effective pricing for heavy packages and frequent domestic deliveries¹². Their extensive ground network makes them particularly effective for furniture transport within the continental United States.
FedEx excels at time-sensitive deliveries and offers premium services for urgent furniture transport. FedEx excels at fast, time-sensitive deliveries and international services¹². While typically more expensive than UPS for standard furniture transport, FedEx provides superior options when speed is essential.
PRO TIP: Compare both major companies for your specific route and timeline. Rate differences can vary significantly based on origin/destination pairs and seasonal demand fluctuations.
Specialized furniture companies focus exclusively on furniture and household goods, offering expertise and equipment specifically designed for these products. These companies understand furniture handling requirements and often provide superior damage prevention compared to general services.
Classification assignments significantly impact pricing across all companies. Furniture classifications typically range from Class 85 (wood furniture, 12-13.5 lbs per cubic foot) to Class 300 (assembled chairs/tables, 2-3 lbs per cubic foot)¹⁵. Dense hardwood dressers typically qualify for lower classes and better pricing.
Regional companies sometimes offer excellent value for specific routes, particularly for shorter distances or specialized handling requirements. While they may lack the extensive networks of major companies, regional specialists often provide more personalized service and competitive pricing for their coverage areas.
Each provider’s tracking capabilities, damage claim processes, and customer service quality should factor into your selection decision. The lowest-priced option isn’t always the best value if service issues create delays or complications.
READ MORE: For comprehensive guidance on evaluation, see our guide to selecting the right logistics partner.
Common mistakes to avoid
Learning from others’ costly errors saves money and prevents frustration during your furniture transport experience. These common mistakes account for the majority of damage claims and service problems.
Inadequate padding remains the most frequent cause of damage. Many shippers underestimate the protection needed for furniture pieces that will experience multiple handling points and potential impacts during transit. Professional transport requires professional-grade protection materials and proper application techniques.
ALERT: Corner damage accounts for over 60% of furniture claims. Invest in quality corner protectors and ensure complete coverage of all vulnerable edges and protrusions.
Poor weight distribution during loading can cause shifting that damages your dresser and other cargo. Proper handling requires balanced loading and strategic placement within the truck to minimize movement during transit.
Insufficient labeling creates confusion that can delay delivery or result in mishandling. Professional packages require specific markings, including fragile designations, orientation arrows, and handling instructions that guide workers throughout the process.
Inadequate documentation preparation causes problems when damage occurs or delivery questions arise. Complete paperwor,k including detailed photos, accurate descriptions, and proper insurance declarations, protects your interests and facilitates claim resolution.
NOTE: Take photos during packing, after loading, and upon delivery. This documentation trail proves invaluable if disputes arise about damage timing or responsibility.
Choosing companies based solely on price often leads to service problems that cost more than premium options. The cheapest quote may come from providers with poor handling procedures, limited insurance coverage, or inadequate tracking capabilities.
Timing mistakes include transport during peak seasons without advance booking, failing to coordinate delivery appointments, or not accounting for transit time requirements. These oversights can result in delays, storage fees, or missed delivery windows.
Understanding classification assignments prevents billing surprises and ensures proper handling. Incorrect classifications can result in re-weighing fees, billing adjustments, or handling problems that damage your furniture.
Citations
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- SunBelt Xpress. “Guide to Specialized LTL Furniture Freight Shipping.” SunBelt Xpress, 2025. https://www.sbfx.com/blog/specialized-ltl-furniture-shipping-guide.
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- USA Truckload Shipping. “LTL Furniture Shipping.” USA Truckload Shipping, 2025. https://usatruckloadshipping.com/ltl-furniture-shipping/.
- PluginHive. “Freight Shipping – FedEx vs UPS vs USPS.” PluginHive, 2021. https://www.pluginhive.com/freight-shipping-fedex-vs-ups-vs-usps/.
- Encore Fulfills. “UPS vs. FedEx: Which Is Better.” Encore Fulfills, 2025. https://www.encorefulfills.com/blog/ups-vs-fedex-which-is-better.
- Macy’s Customer Service. “Furniture & Mattress Delivery Fees.” Macy’s, 2021. https://customerservice-macys.com/articles/deliveryfees.
- Supply Chain Dive. “FedEx, UPS 2024 rate increases.” Supply Chain Dive, 2023. https://www.supplychaindive.com/news/fedex-ups-2024-rate-increase-gri-what-shippers-should-know/699121/.
- ShipNerd. “Freight Class Shipping Codes.” ShipNerd, 2025. https://www.shipnerd.com/support/freight-class/shipping-codes/.
