Shipping Furniture and Home Goods
From Couches to Kitchen Sets — We Ship It All.
Reliable freight solutions for furniture and home goods, delivered with care and expertise. From oversized sofas to delicate décor, we make freight shipping simple and stress-free.
Discover More about Shipping Furniture and Home Goods
Shipping Furniture Shipping Appliances Shipping Household Goods
When shipping furniture and home goods, most shippers turn to moving companies, who are experts at delivering home goods, appliances, and other home necessities in and out of homes. But what if you are a furniture manufacturer, interior designer, or home goods e-commerce company? Moving companies aren’t the best solution, and owning your own transportation can get costly and unwieldy. What you need is a reliable 3PL that can handle shipping on your behalf. Someone like FreightCenter!
Whether you’re relocating across the country, fulfilling online orders, or managing interior design shipments, FreightCenter simplifies the process of shipping furniture and home goods. Our freight experts, top-rated carrier network, and competitive rates ensure your items are transported safely and efficiently, no matter the size or destination.
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 Shipping Furniture and Home Goods?
Access to Hundreds of Top-Rated National and Regional Carriers: FreightCenter partners with a vast network of trusted LTL and FTL freight carriers across the country. Whether you’re shipping a single armchair or a full dining set, we connect you with carriers experienced in handling furniture and home goods safely and efficiently. This gives you more flexibility, better rates, and specialized options like white glove delivery or residential service.
Instant Online Quotes and Simplified Booking: Our user-friendly quote tool lets you compare rates from multiple carriers in seconds, helping you find the best deal for your shipment. Once you choose a carrier, booking is quick and easy—no lengthy phone calls or complicated paperwork. It’s a seamless process designed to save you time and money.
Flexible Services Including Residential Pickup, Liftgate Options, and Delivery Appointments: Shipping to or from a home? No problem. FreightCenter offers residential pickup and delivery services, with add-ons like liftgate assistance to handle heavy or oversized items. We can even schedule delivery appointments so your furniture or home goods arrive when it’s most convenient for you.
Expert Guidance Every Step of the Way—Including Damage Prevention and Claims Support: Our team of freight experts helps you navigate the entire shipping process, from selecting the right service to understanding packaging best practices. We provide personalized advice on how to protect your items during transit and assist with filing claims if damage occurs. With years of experience handling delicate and bulky items, we make sure your shipment is in capable hands.
The Challenges of Shipping Furniture and Home Goods
FreightCenter ships a variety of furniture pieces and home accessories, including:
- Sofas, sectionals, and recliners
- Bedroom sets and mattresses
- Dining tables, chairs, and hutches
- Bookshelves, desks, and office furniture
- Appliances and kitchen goods
- Décor, mirrors, framed art, and rugs
- Storage units
- Patio sets
- and more!
All of these items are unique and need to be preserved and protected during transport. Shipping furniture isn’t just about packing your items up and getting them onto a vehicle. Furniture and certain home goods can be bulky, oversized, and fragile, presenting challenges that could increase the risk of damage and loss to your shipment. Let’s evaluate some of these challenges and how you can overcome them with FreightCenter’s help!
Challenge 1: Bulky or Irregularly Shaped Items Are Difficult to Pack and Handle
Solution: Disassembling furniture can help reduce dimensions and prevent damage, while using stretch wrap, furniture pads, and corner protectors adds essential cushioning. When packaging gets tricky, palletizing or custom crating ensures stability and safety. FreightCenter’s team can guide shippers on the best packaging practices or even coordinate with carriers who specialize in large, oddly shaped items.
Challenge 2: Risk of Damage During Transit
Solution: Furniture and fragile home goods are susceptible to scratches, dents, and breakage during loading and unloading. The best way to minimize risk is to secure items tightly, avoid overpacking, and use rigid packaging whenever possible. FreightCenter offers access to white glove services and vetted carriers known for gentle handling and high standards of care.
Challenge 3: Limited Access at Residential Locations
Solution: Many homes aren’t equipped to receive freight deliveries—narrow driveways, stairs, and lack of loading docks can complicate drop-offs. Shippers can request liftgate service, inside delivery, or scheduled delivery appointments to ensure the handoff goes smoothly. FreightCenter makes it easy to add these accessorials during booking, so there are no surprises at delivery.
Challenge 4: Comparing Shipping Rates and Carrier Options Is Overwhelming
Solution: With so many carriers and pricing structures, finding the best deal for your shipment can be time-consuming and confusing. FreightCenter simplifies the process with a centralized platform that compares rates from multiple top carriers at once. Our system highlights options based on cost, service level, and transit time—so you can make the best choice for your shipment with confidence.
How to Ship Furniture and Home Goods by Freight
Shipping furniture and home goods involves more than just packing a box and calling a carrier. Because these items are often bulky, heavy, fragile, or irregularly shaped, choosing the right freight service is essential for cost-effective, damage-free delivery.
Here’s how to ship furniture and home goods step by step:
Measure and Weigh Your Items: Accurately measure the dimensions (length, width, height) and weight of your furniture or goods. This information determines your freight class and shipping rate.
Disassemble When Possible: Remove legs, cushions, drawers, and detachable parts to reduce size and prevent breakage during transit. Wrap each part separately for added protection.
Properly Package and Protect: Use moving blankets, bubble wrap, corner guards, and stretch wrap. Palletizing or crating items is highly recommended for added security.
Choose the Right Freight Service: FreightCenter offers a variety of shipping options tailored to the nature of your items—LTL (Less-Than-Truckload), FTL (Full Truckload), white glove, and residential delivery options. (See more about freight transportation options below!)
Book Through FreightCenter: Our online quoting tool connects you with top carriers, transparent rates, and helpful tools to schedule your shipment quickly and confidently.
FreightCenter has a variety of freight transportation options that can safely deliver your furniture and home goods safely and efficiently. Let's take a look at some of the choices you have:
Less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping is ideal for shipments that don't need an entire trailer's space. Your shipment is transported with other shipments, and you only pay for the space you use, less than if you paid for a full trailer. This is an ideal way to ship individual pieces of furniture or smaller home goods; however, this mode isn't the safest way to transport furniture, as other shipments could increase the risk of damages during transit. Be sure that your furniture or home goods are sturdy enough to handle LTL shipping.
Full truckload shipping provides you with a whole trailer, while not making as many stops as LTL trailers. This shipping option is great for larger furniture and bulk home goods shipping, but it can get expensive depending on the location and travel time. If you are considering full truckload, ensure you have large or multiple shipments that need the space.
If you need your furniture and home goods pronto, look no further than our expedited shipping services. We work with expert carriers to get your shipment in and out in just a few days, compared to the few weeks it might take for standard freight shipping. We also update you regularly on ETAs and tracking through our carriers. While this option is great for time-critical pieces, it can be very expensive and not always available.
Some furniture or home goods need some extra care and attention when being shipped. We offer a variety of services that upgrade your freight shipping experience. For furniture and home goods, consider white glove, blanket wrap, and oversized shipping; all of these cater towards items that are sensitive and fragile, or heavy and oversized.
Cost of Freight Shipping Furniture and Home Goods
The cost of freight shipping furniture and home goods can vary depending on the size, weight, service level, and delivery location. Whether you’re sending a single armchair across state lines or relocating multiple rooms’ worth of furniture cross-country, understanding what affects freight pricing helps you make smarter shipping decisions—and avoid unexpected fees.
What Affects the Cost of Shipping Furniture and Home Goods?
- Size and Weight: Larger, heavier items take up more space and are more expensive to move.
- Freight Class: Furniture tends to fall into higher freight classes due to its bulk and fragility.
- Packaging Type: Crating or palletizing may raise upfront costs but reduces damage risk.
- Shipping Distance: Longer hauls naturally cost more, especially cross-country or rural routes.
- Service Level: White glove or residential delivery services increase the cost compared to dock-to-dock shipping.
- Urgency: Expedited or time-definite shipments carry a premium.
- Accessorial Fees: Liftgate service, inside delivery, and limited access locations can add to the total.
- Carrier Availability: Rates may fluctuate depending on market demand and regional carrier capacity.
Estimated Furniture & Home Goods Shipping Costs
These rough estimates reflect typical LTL shipping prices for well-packaged items traveling around 500–1,000 miles in the continental U.S. Final costs may vary based on specifics.
| Item | Shipping Distance | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Queen-Sized Mattress (boxed) | 750 miles | $275–$400 |
| 6-Drawer Dresser (palletized) | 600 miles | $300–$425 |
| Dining Table & 4 Chairs (crated) | 1,000 miles | $450–$650 |
| Washer & Dryer Set (palletized) | 800 miles | $375–$525 |
FreightCenter Moves Furniture and Home Goods With Ease!
Whether you’re moving to a new home, are finishing an interior design job, or are manufacturing furniture and home goods for retailers, you need a reliable, dedicated 3PL partner to make freight shipping your pieces easy, affordable, and efficient. Luckily, FreightCenter is one such 3PL that you can trust to get your home goods and furniture moving! With competitive rates, a reputable carrier network, tailored shipping solutions, and endless support from our professional agents, your pieces are in good hands. We’ll ensure your items are safeguarded and delivered safely, so you can prioritize your business operations instead.
Wanna move with us? Call (800) 716-7608 to speak to one of our freight representatives, or try our online quoting tool to instantly compare rates. Ship your furniture and home goods with us today!
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
Safeguard your Furniture and Home Goods!
One of the biggest concerns when shipping furniture and home goods is their vulnerability. These pieces are likely to shift, slide, and rattle while being transported, increasing the risk of damage and loss. Fear not, however, there are ways to protect your shipment, using FreightCenter’s reliable services, like:
White Glove Services: When your shipment requires inside pickup or delivery, setup, or extra care by the driver, white glove shipping is the way to go. Great for antiques, designer pieces, or high-end electronics.
Freight Insurance: FreightCenter provides third-party insurance for added peace of mind. This ensures that you are covered in case of loss or damage during transit, which is especially useful for valuable or irreplaceable home goods.
Blanket Wrap: Include this during your booking to protect your items inside the trailer. Also known as pad wrap services, thick blankets are wrapped around your shipment, creating a buffer that can absorb shock and providing an extra degree of care for fragile items.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shipping Furniture and Home Goods
Q. Can I ship furniture and home goods across the country?
Yes, furniture and home goods can be shipped coast to coast using LTL or full truckload freight services. Whether you’re relocating, sending items to a vacation home, or shipping products to a buyer, freight shipping is a reliable method. It’s important to properly package and secure your shipment for the long journey. FreightCenter can help you coordinate cross-country shipments and find a carrier that fits your timeline.
Q. What is the best way to package furniture for shipping?
Start by disassembling any parts that can be removed, like table legs or bed frames. Use moving blankets, bubble wrap, and stretch film to protect surfaces, and consider palletizing or crating larger items. Label each piece clearly and avoid stacking fragile items unless they’re properly supported. Well-packaged furniture reduces the risk of damage and ensures a smoother delivery process.
Q. What freight class is furniture typically assigned?
Furniture often falls between freight classes 125 and 300, depending on its density, fragility, and handling requirements. Lightweight but bulky items like couches may have a higher freight class, while dense wood furniture may be assigned a lower class. Accurate measurements and weight are key to avoiding reclassification and additional charges. A FreightCenter agent can help you determine the right freight class for your shipment.
Q. Can I ship antiques or high-value furniture?
Yes, but there will be some challenges. Antiques, vintage furniture, and high-end pieces can be shipped via freight, but they require extra care, and not all carriers will ship them. Crating, white glove service, and insurance are strongly recommended for these items. FreightCenter can connect you with carriers experienced in handling valuable or fragile furniture and help you explore protective shipping options.
Q. How much does it cost to ship furniture by freight?
The cost to ship furniture depends on several factors, including size, weight, distance, freight class, and service level. Large or bulky pieces typically cost more to move, especially if you need extra services like liftgate delivery or inside drop-off. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $250 to $700 for domestic freight shipping of common home goods. FreightCenter helps you compare real-time rates from multiple carriers so you can choose the best option for your budget.
Q. How long does it take to ship furniture by freight?
Shipping time depends on the distance, carrier schedule, and chosen service level. LTL shipments typically take 2–7 business days, while expedited or dedicated truckload shipping may be faster. If you’re working with tight delivery windows, it’s best to plan ahead and ask about appointment scheduling. FreightCenter provides estimated transit times when you get a quote, so you know what to expect.
Q. Can I get furniture picked up from or delivered to a home address?
Yes, but residential locations often require additional services like liftgate delivery or scheduled drop-offs. Unlike commercial locations, most homes lack loading docks or equipment to unload heavy items. FreightCenter offers residential freight services and lets you easily add accessorials like inside delivery during the booking process.
Q. Is freight shipping safe for delicate or fragile furniture?
When properly packaged, freight shipping is safe for fragile items like glass tables, mirrors, or heirloom furniture. Using foam padding, rigid corner protectors, and crating can dramatically reduce the risk of damage. Choosing a reputable carrier with good handling practices also makes a difference. FreightCenter helps you select carriers known for quality and care when handling sensitive goods.
Q. What documents do I need to ship furniture via freight?
The most important document is the Bill of Lading (BOL), which outlines the shipment details, including contents, origin, destination, and services requested. The BOL acts as a receipt and contract between you and the carrier. You may also need shipping labels and, for some services, a packing slip or invoice. FreightCenter automatically provides your BOL and helps ensure it’s filled out correctly.
Q. Can I track my furniture shipment once it’s on the way?
Yes, most freight carriers provide tracking numbers or PRO numbers that allow you to follow your shipment’s progress. This helps you stay informed of delays or estimated delivery times. FreightCenter offers centralized tracking so you can monitor your shipment across carriers in one place, making the process even easier.
Q. What happens if my furniture is damaged during shipping?
If your shipment arrives damaged, inspect it immediately and take photos before signing the delivery receipt. Noting visible damage on the receipt is crucial for filing a claim. Keep all packaging and file your claim as soon as possible. FreightCenter offers claims assistance and can help guide you through the process if your shipment is booked through our platform.
Q. Can I ship multiple pieces of furniture in one freight shipment?
Yes! Shipping multiple items together is often more cost-effective than shipping them individually. You can palletize or crate your shipment to keep it secure and grouped. Be sure to include accurate dimensions and weights for all items when getting a quote.
Q. What’s the difference between LTL and white glove service?
LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) shipping is curbside or dock-to-dock freight delivery and is best for standard furniture shipments. White glove service, on the other hand, includes inside delivery, unpacking, and sometimes assembly. It’s ideal for high-end items or situations where extra care and convenience are required.
Q. Are there restrictions on what types of home goods I can ship?
While most furniture and household items can be shipped via freight, there are some exceptions. Hazardous materials, flammable goods, and certain electronics may have restrictions. Always check with your shipping provider or FreightCenter agent to confirm your items meet carrier requirements.
Q. How do I get a quote for shipping furniture and home goods?
You can get a quote instantly using FreightCenter’s online quote tool. Just enter your shipment details—item dimensions, weight, origin, and destination—and we’ll show you real-time rates from top carriers. If you prefer personal help, you can call our team at (800) 716-7608 to speak directly with a shipping expert.
Tips for a Successful Furniture and Home Goods Freight Shipment
Use Pallets When Possible
Furniture likes to shift and slide during transport, risking irreparable damages to your shipment. Keeps your furniture off the ground using pallets, making it easier to move your pieces on and off the trailer and making it less prone to damage.
Label and Photograph Each Item
Before packaging, take photos of your records and each item in case a damage claim is needed later. Also, if you are shipping multiple pieces to different destinations, having clear labels on your items will help with delivering them to the right location.
Avoid Overpacking
Cramming too many items into one shipment may increase your freight class, raise costs, and increase the likelihood of damages during transport. Stick with accurate measurements and avoid unnecessary materials inside the shipment.
