The Cheapest Ways To Ship Moving Boxes

Moving can be stressful and expensive, especially when it comes to shipping your belongings. Whether you’re relocating across town or across the country, shipping costs can add up quickly. This guide covers the factors that affect moving costs, the cheapest ways to ship moving boxes, and useful packing tips.

Factors That Affect Shipping Costs

The cost of shipping moving boxes depends on various elements:

Distance

Longer distances mean higher fuel consumption and more labor, which results in higher costs. Shipping within the same state or region will almost always be cheaper than cross-country or international shipments.

For example, shipping a United States Postal Service (USPS) large flat rate box (12 1/4 inches-by-12 1/4 inches-by-6 inches) within the United States costs $26*. However, when shipping internationally, the same flat rate box starts at $74.60, with costs varying depending on the country.

*Costs in this section are sourced from USPS.com.

Carrier and Shipping Method

Different service providers have different price tags, and available shipping methods, including ground, air, and expedited shipping, can further influence price. In most cases, ground shipping is the most economical, while air shipping and expedited services cost more.

Some carriers offer discounts if you purchase online or opt for commercial or bulk pricing. Purchasing a label online tends to be cheaper than buying one in-store. However, you’ll need to get the weight correct, or you could be on the hook for more later if it turns out the package weighed more than expected.

Insurance costs and available coverage also vary, depending on the carrier.

Box Size and Weight

Most carriers also charge based on packages’ dimensions and weight. Since larger and heavier boxes occupy more space and require more fuel, they cost more to ship.

Some companies use dimensional weight pricing (DIM), which charges based on the space your package takes up in a truck rather than its actual weight. As a result, even a lightweight but bulky item can result in higher shipping costs.

For example, the USPS asks you to calculate your box’s volume (by multiplying its length, width, and height) and then divide the result by 166 to get a dimension weight in pounds. If this weight is greater than the actual weight of your box, you’ll have to pay the DIM price.

What Are the Cheapest Shipping Options for Moving Boxes?

While the final price of transporting your belongings depends on many factors and circumstances, the cheapest options for shipping boxes currently include:

USPS (United States Postal Service)

The USPS offers competitive rates for shipping moving boxes, especially for smaller, lighter packages. It has flat rates for different types of boxes, making it easier to predict shipping costs, and has discounts for bulk shipping. 

However, the postal service has limited tracking capabilities, fewer options for very large or heavy boxes, and slower delivery times compared to private carriers. 

Costs vary depending on the size, weight, distance, material to be shipped, and the service. The USPS changes prices every year, but some examples for shipping include:

• Media Mail® is a cost-effective option if you’re shipping books or media. However, you’ll have to adhere to the rules for this service or face a fine. It starts at $4.63, but it tends to have much longer shipping times than other options.
• USPS Ground Advantage® starts at $5.40, and it’s the USPS’s cheapest shipping option if you’re sending moving boxes that don’t contain media.
• Priority Mail® allows for faster shipping, but it’s more expensive than Media Mail® or Ground Advantage®, starting at $9.65.
• Priority Mail Express® guarantees one to two-day delivery in most circumstances or your money back. Prices start at $31.55.
• International delivery options depend on the country you’re shipping to, weight of the package, and desired delivery time. Most moving boxes will require Priority Mail International®, which starts at $30.90 for six to 10-day delivery.

*Costs in this section are sourced from USPS.com.

FedEx

FedEx, a private carrier, provides a wide variety of domestic and international service options depending on your needs, with even faster express options compared to the USPS. The brand also has reliable and extensive tracking services and tends to offer bulk discounts during the holidays. 

However, you’re going to pay extra for those faster delivery times and residential delivery. The pricing structure is also complex, which complicates price comparison, but FedEx has a shipping calculator available.

Here’s a breakdown of its residential service options: 

• Expedited: Same-day delivery is available in select areas, but customers can also choose from next business day or two-day delivery services.
• Standard: FedEx Express Saver® delivers to homes in three days, but residential customers can save money through FedEx Home Delivery®.
• International: FedEx has expedited international shipping solutions, ranging from one to five-day delivery windows. FedEx International Ground® is an option for packages going to Canada.

FedEx’s 2day rates range from $14.50* for a small box (10 7/8 inches-by-1 1/2 inches-by-12 3/8 inches) to $32.50 for an extra large box (11 7/8 inches-by-10 3/4 inches-by-11 inches).

*Costs in this section are sourced from FedEx.com

UPS

UPS is another private carrier that offers a wide range of shipping solutions with comprehensive tracking and delivery management tools. The brand has multiple service options for different delivery speeds and budgets, with a strong network and reliable delivery times.

UPS charges additional fees for large packages, though, and as with FedEx, it has a complex pricing structure. There are also higher costs and limited shipping options for residential deliveries both domestically and internationally. 

UPS’s Simple Rate is one of its more cost-effective options, with delivery times ranging between one to five days. Small boxes start at $14.15*, while extra boxes start at $27.60.

Due to UPS’s complex pricing structure, most customers will have to use the brand’s calculator tool to compare options and costs.

*Costs in this section are sourced from UPS.com.

Moving Companies

Hiring a professional moving company can be one of the most convenient ways to ship moving boxes—especially if you’re planning a full-scale relocation. These companies typically offer bundled services that include packing, transport, and even insurance coverage to protect your belongings in transit. Many also provide free moving supplies, such as wardrobe boxes, when you book a full-service move.

For larger or long-distance moves, it may be worth exploring options like interstate movers or long-distance moving companies, which are better equipped to handle cross-country logistics. If you’re relocating to a different state, check out our guide on the cost to move out of state for price comparisons and planning tips.

That said, using movers just to ship boxes might not be the cheapest route. Some companies have minimum load requirements or charge a premium for smaller shipments. In such cases, alternatives like moving containers or freight-based services may offer better value.

Before you hire a company, it’s important to do your due diligence:

• Ask about AAA discounts or seasonal promotions
• Compare quotes and estimates from multiple providers
• Review your moving contract carefully
• Understand the pros and cons—especially if you’re weighing options like are movers worth it

If you’re hiring movers for specialized tasks—such as piano moving, packing, or senior relocation—our targeted guides, including packing and moving companies, can help narrow your options.

Tips for Reducing Shipping Costs

Regardless of the shipping method you choose, there are several strategies you can employ to minimize your moving costs and help your items arrive safely.

• Use efficient packing techniques. Save on space with vacuum bags for clothing and linens. Fill any empty space with packing materials to prevent damage. Distribute the items evenly, with heavier items at the bottom and lighter or more valuable items on top. Overpacking can drive up shipping costs and cause damage.
• Choose the right boxes. Use sturdy boxes that suit your items’ sizes and weights. Appropriate box sizes can also help you avoid dimensional weight charges. Ship extremely valuable or fragile large items through a specialized crating service
• Label boxes clearly. Each box should be clearly labeled with its destination. Write on multiple sides with a bold marker.
• Disassemble large items. Disassemble furniture and other items so they better fit in smaller boxes. However, don’t take apart anything if you’re not confident you can put it back together at your destination.
• Research for international moves. Look into custom regulations and restrictions to avoid fines. Freight tends to be less expensive than air freight. Most international moving companies will include full-packing services in their quote.

Comparing Shipping Costs

You’ll need to consider your own situation and need to determine the cheapest way to ship moving boxes. 

In this template, we outline sample prices for moving 10 large boxes from Boston to Seattle (around 3,000 miles).

Our Conclusion

The cheapest way to ship moving boxes depends on your circumstances. If you have only a few large boxes and don’t need fast shipping, your best bet is to use carrier services. However, if you’re planning a full move to a new home, you’re likely going to benefit from working with a moving or freight company. Renting a truck or trailer works best only if you have the time to handle the entire move on your own.

FAQs About the Cheapest Way to Ship Moving Boxes