Sending Large Items: Furniture, TVs and Bikes
Standard couriers have size and weight limits that rule out most furniture, televisions and bicycles. Here is how to ship large items across the UK without spending a fortune.
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Specialist Large Item Couriers
Several couriers specialise in oversized items. These include:
- AnyVan - Handles furniture, appliances and bulky items with a two-person delivery service. Prices from around 30 pounds for local deliveries.
- Shiply - Auction-style platform where couriers bid on your job. Good for one-off large items.
- Parcelforce 48 Large - Up to 30kg and 2.5m in length. Suitable for bikes and smaller furniture.
- TNT/FedEx - Handle palletised freight for very large or heavy items.
- Man and Van services - Often the cheapest for local moves of multiple large items.
Packaging Large Items
Poor packaging is the main reason large items arrive damaged. Here are the essentials:
- TVs - Use the original box if possible. If not, use a double-walled cardboard box with at least 5cm of padding on all sides. Never ship a TV without a box.
- Furniture - Wrap in furniture blankets or bubble wrap. Protect corners with cardboard corner protectors. Remove legs and pack separately.
- Bikes - Use a proper bike box (available from bike shops for free). Remove pedals and turn handlebars. Protect the frame with pipe lagging.
Cost Guide
| Item | Typical Cost (UK) | Best Option |
|---|---|---|
| Sofa | 50 - 150 | AnyVan / Man and Van |
| TV (50 inch+) | 30 - 80 | Specialist courier |
| Bicycle | 15 - 40 | Parcelforce / BikeFlights |
| Wardrobe | 60 - 120 | AnyVan / Shiply |
| Washing machine | 40 - 90 | AnyVan |
Insurance
Standard courier insurance typically covers items up to 50-100 pounds. For valuable items like electronics or antique furniture, buy additional transit insurance. Many couriers offer this at checkout for a small fee. Keep receipts or proof of value. Take photos of the item and packaging before shipping. If damage occurs, report it immediately and do not dispose of the packaging until the claim is resolved.