Shipping Arcade Games
When it comes to Shipping Arcade Games, just call us Pack Man!
Shipping arcade games is an intricate process that involves careful planning and coordination to ensure the successful delivery of these captivating gaming experiences.
Shipping arcade games isn’t like shipping a regular package—it’s a delicate, oversized, and often high-value process that requires expertise. Whether you’re a collector, an arcade owner, a retailer, or a distributor, FreightCenter ensures your arcade game arrives safely, intact, and at the best available rate.
FreightCenter’s 3PL services provide secure, cost-effective, and timely delivery for single or bulk arcade game shipments.
Thousands of businesses trust FreightCenter to move their freight faster, smarter, and cheaper! From unbeatable rates to top-notch service, our customers are raving about their shipping success.
See why they keep coming back!
Award-Winning Service, Trusted by Shippers Everywhere!
- 2021, 2017 & 2016 Food Logistics’ Top Green Providers
- 2021 & 2018 Supply & Demand Chain Executives’ Pros to Know: Matthew Brosious
- 2020 & 2019 Top Food Logistics’ 3PL & Cold Storage Provider Award
- 2020 & 2019 Business Observer’s Top 500 Companies on the Gulf Coast
- 2020 & 2017 SmartWay® Transport Partner
- 2020 & 2017 Food Logistics’ Champions: Rock Stars of the Supply Chain
- 2020 Best of Palm Harbor Awards for Local Businesses
- 2017 Green Supply Chain Award from Supply & Demand Chain Executive
- 2017 Tampa Bay Business Journal Heroes at Work
- 2016, 2015, & 2012 Food Logistics Top 100 Software and Technology Providers
- 2013 Tampa Bay Business 100 by Tampa Bay Business Journal
- 2013 Top 100 Great Supply Chain Partners by SupplyChainBrain
- 2012 TIA Samaritan Award Honorable Mention
- 2012, 2011 & 2010 TBBJ Fast 50 Recipient
- 2013, 2011, & 2010 Diversity Business Top Businesses
Why Choose FreightCenter for Arcade Game Shipping?
FreightCenter specializes in shipping arcade games with expert handling, secure packaging, and reliable delivery to ensure machines arrive in perfect condition.
- Exclusive Arcade Game Shipping Rates – Compare quotes from multiple carriers and lock in the best price.
- LTL & FTL Freight Solutions – Ship single cabinets or full truckloads with ease.
- Access to Professional Packaging & Crating Services – Our partners provide custom crating, palletizing, and protective wrapping.
- White-Glove Delivery Available – Need extra care? Choose inside delivery, setup assistance, and premium handling.
- Real-Time Tracking & Dedicated Support – Stay updated on your shipment from pickup to delivery.
Let FreightCenter take the guesswork out of arcade game shipping—connect with expert carriers and packaging providers all in one place!
How to Ship an Arcade Game Safely
Step 1: Choose the Right Shipping Method
Arcade machines vary in size and weight, so selecting the right freight option is crucial:
- LTL Shipping: Best for shipping one or a few arcade games, allowing cost-sharing on a freight truck.
- FTL Shipping: Ideal for large bulk shipments or extra-large arcade machines requiring full truck space.
- White-Glove & Inside Delivery: For delicate vintage arcade games that need extra care.
- Expedited Freight: When you need fast, time-sensitive delivery.
Step 2: Properly Pack Your Arcade Game for Shipping
Arcade games have screens, joysticks, and delicate electronic components that require careful protection.
- Use heavy-duty furniture blankets and bubble wrap to protect the cabinet and screen.
- Secure joysticks, buttons, and removable parts to prevent movement during transit.
- Place the arcade game on a reinforced pallet to keep it stable and upright.
- Label as “Fragile – Keep Upright” for proper handling.
Need a custom crating solution? FreightCenter can connect you with professional packaging services!
Step 3: Compare Carriers & Book the Best Rate
FreightCenter’s platform provides instant rate comparisons from top arcade game shipping carriers, ensuring you get the best service at the lowest price.
Types of Arcade Games We Ship
- Classic arcade cabinets (Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, Street Fighter, etc.)
- Pinball machines
- Multiplayer arcade cabinets
- Racing simulators & motion-based games
- Claw machines & ticket redemption games
- Virtual reality arcade systems
How Much Does it Cost to Ship Arcade Games?
The cost to ship arcade games can vary based on several factors, including the size and weight of the games, the shipping distance, the shipping method chosen, any additional services required, and the current market rates. To get an accurate estimate of the shipping cost for your specific arcade games, it is recommended to contact freight forwarders or logistics companies. They can assess the exact details of your shipment and provide you with a detailed quote based on your requirements and the current market conditions.
Arcade games are large, heavy, and fragile, which means standard freight shipping may not always be enough. You may need additional services to ensure a smooth delivery. Here are some extra services to consider.
Arcade games are heavy, bulky, and tough to move without the right equipment—that’s where FreightCenter’s liftgate service comes in! If your pickup or delivery location doesn’t have a loading dock or forklift, a liftgate-equipped truck makes it easy and safe to load and unload your arcade machine.
Timing is everything when shipping an arcade game, especially if you're delivering to a business, event, or residential location with limited access. With FreightCenter’s appointment delivery service, you can schedule an delivery date to make sure someone is available to receive your shipment.
Arcade machines are big, heavy, and not easy to move once they arrive—but with FreightCenter’s inside delivery service, you don’t have to worry about maneuvering it yourself. Instead of leaving your game at the curb, our carrier partners will bring it to the garage.
Need to ship an arcade game without revealing the supplier or original shipper? FreightCenter’s blind shipping service ensures that the recipient only sees the information you want them to. Perfect for resellers, distributors, and businesses, blind shipping protects your supplier relationships and keeps pricing confidential.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
Get a Free Arcade Game Shipping Quote Today!
FreightCenter knows how important it is to deliver your Arcade games and cabinets safely and punctually. With over 25 years in the business, we’re committed to giving our customers the best shipping experience without breaking your budget. We’re partnered with over 50 carriers nationwide, which we leverage to offer discounted rates you can’t find anywhere else. We also provide tailored solutions for your shipping needs, including expedited shipping, white glove services, and specialized freight shipping. And best of all, repeat customers can earn points for special rewards every time they ship with us!
Ready to ship something now? Our agents are prepared to help you get started on shipping right. Get a free freight quote using our free quote tool, or call us at (800) 716-7608.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shipping Arcade Cabinets
Q. What is the best way to package an arcade cabinet for shipping?
The safest method is to wrap the arcade cabinet in soft padding (like moving blankets or foam sheets), followed by heavy-duty shrink wrap. Then, place it in a custom wooden crate or reinforced box. Use foam inserts or packing materials to cushion and stabilize the game inside the crate.
Q. What should I do if my arcade cabinet is damaged during shipping?
- Document the damage immediately with photos.
- Keep the original packaging for claims purposes.
- Contact the carrier to file an insurance claim.
- Notify the recipient and provide all documentation for faster claim resolution.
Q. Should I disassemble an arcade cabinet before shipping?
Yes, if possible. Remove or secure fragile components like control panels, glass, and coin doors. Detach and package these items separately to avoid damage. Internal parts, such as wiring or screens, should be secured to prevent movement.
Q. How much does it cost to ship an arcade cabinet?
Shipping costs vary based on size, weight, distance, and shipping method. On average, expect costs to range from $300 to $1,200. Specialized services like white-glove delivery or climate-controlled transport may increase costs.
Q. What is the best shipping method for arcade cabinets?
- LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) Shipping is ideal for single cabinets or smaller batches.
- FTL (Full Truckload) Shipping is better for multiple cabinets or oversized machines.
- Expedited Shipping is recommended for time-sensitive deliveries.
- White-Glove Shipping is best for vintage or high-value arcade games needing extra care.
Q. How can I protect arcade cabinets from damage during transit?
- Use heavy-duty crates with internal padding.
- Wrap fragile components with bubble wrap or foam.
- Secure internal parts with foam or straps.
- Clearly label packages with “Fragile” and “This Side Up”.
Q. Should I insure my arcade cabinet during shipping?
Yes. Insurance is highly recommended, especially for vintage, collectible, or high-value cabinets. Insurance protects against loss, theft, or damage during transit.
Q. How do I choose the right shipping carrier for arcade cabinets?
Select carriers that specialize in oversized, heavy, or fragile freight. Choose services that offer insurance, tracking, and white-glove options for maximum protection. Or, you could just let a FreightCenter agent find the best one for you!
Q. Do arcade cabinets require climate-controlled shipping?
For vintage or high-value machines, climate-controlled shipping can prevent issues like warping, cracking, or electronic failure due to extreme temperature or humidity.
Q. How can I prevent internal components from shifting during transit?
- Anchor the base of the cabinet within the crate.
- Use foam blocks, padding, or straps to stabilize internal components like screens or circuit boards.
- Secure wiring with zip ties.
Insider Tips for Shipping Arcade Games
Shrink-Wrap the Control Panel
Arcade control panels are one of the most fragile parts of the machine—joysticks, buttons, and trackballs can easily get damaged during transport. Before wrapping the entire machine, use bubble wrap and shrink wrap to secure the control panel separately. This keeps components from shifting and helps prevent damage from accidental bumps. If the control panel is removable, detach it and pack it separately for extra protection.
Use a Freight Terminal Drop-Off or Pickup
Arcade games are large, heavy, and require special handling, which can increase shipping costs—especially if you're paying for residential pickup or delivery. To cut costs, consider dropping off your arcade game at a freight terminal instead of scheduling a residential pickup. Likewise, if the recipient can pick it up from a terminal, they’ll save on delivery fees. FreightCenter can help you find the nearest freight terminals for cost-effective shipping.
Remove or Secure the Coin Door
Many arcade cabinets have coin doors that can unexpectedly swing open during transit, leading to broken locks, damaged wiring, or even lost parts. If possible, remove the coin door entirely and pack it separately. If removal isn’t an option, secure it shut using zip ties or strong packing tape to prevent movement. This simple step can help avoid damage that could be costly to repair.
