How to Ship Large Signs
Shipping Big Signs? We've Got You Covered
From billboards and monument signs to oversized channel letters and custom displays, FreightCenter simplifies the complexities of shipping large signs. Our expert logistics team connects you with the right carriers and equipment to move your signage safely, affordably, and on time no matter the shape, weight, or destination.
Shipping large signs can be tricky, especially if it’s your first time. Whether you’re a business owner sending signs to another location or an individual needing to transport a large sign, knowing how to do it properly is essential. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about shipping large signs with FreightCenter, a company specializing in freight shipping. By the end of this guide, you’ll understand the steps to take to ensure your signs arrive safely and on time.
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- 2012 TIA Samaritan Award Honorable Mention
- 2012, 2011 & 2010 TBBJ Fast 50 Recipient
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Why Choose FreightCenter for Shipping Large Signs?
FreightCenter is a great choice for shipping large signs for several reasons. First, they have extensive experience handling big and bulky items, which means they know how to care for your signs. Second, they offer different shipping options to fit your needs and budget, making it easier to find a solution that works for you.
Another big advantage of using FreightCenter is its excellent customer service. They can help you every step of the way, from getting a quote to tracking your shipment. This support is especially helpful if you’re new to freight shipping and need guidance.
FreightCenter also provides competitive pricing. They work with a network of carriers, which allows them to find the best rates for you. This can save you money while ensuring your signs are shipped safely and efficiently.
Proper Packaging for Large Signs
One of the most important steps in shipping large signs is making sure they are properly packaged. Good packaging protects your signs from damage during transit. Here’s how you can do it:
Materials Needed:
- Strong cardboard boxes or wooden crates
- Bubble wrap or foam padding
- Packing tape
- Corner protectors
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Choose the Right Container: For smaller signs, use a sturdy cardboard box. For larger signs, a wooden crate is best. The container should be big enough to fit the sign with some extra space for padding.
- Wrap the Sign: Cover the entire sign with bubble wrap or foam padding. Wrap it several times to provide good protection.
- Protect the Corners: Use corner protectors to shield the sign’s corners. These areas are most likely to get damaged during shipping.
- Secure the Sign Inside the Container: Place the wrapped sign in the box or crate. Fill any empty spaces with more bubble wrap, foam, or packing peanuts. This prevents the sign from moving around.
- Seal the Container: Use packing tape to securely seal the box or crate. Make sure all seams and edges are taped up well.
Proper packaging is crucial because it helps prevent damage and ensures your sign arrives perfectly.
Accurate Measurement and Weight Reporting
When shipping large signs, it’s important to provide accurate measurements and weight. This information helps FreightCenter give you an accurate quote and ensures your shipment is handled correctly.
Measuring Your Sign:
- Length: Measure the longest side of the packaged sign.
- Width: Measure the side perpendicular to the length.
- Height: Measure from the bottom to the top of the package.
Measure the package, not just the sign itself. Including the packaging in your measurements ensures accuracy.
Weighing Your Sign:
- Use a scale to weigh the entire package, including the sign and all packaging materials.
- If the package is too large for a household scale, consider using a freight scale or asking FreightCenter for help.
Providing accurate measurements and weight is essential because it affects the shipping cost and ensures the carrier can handle your shipment properly.
Choosing the Right Shipping Method: LTL vs. FTL
When shipping large signs, you need to choose the right shipping method. The two main options are LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) and FTL (Full Truckload). Here’s what you need to know about each:
Less-Than-Truckload (LTL):
- What It Is: LTL shipping means your sign will share truck space with other shipments. It’s like carpooling for freight.
- When to Use It: This is a good option if you’re shipping one or a few signs that don’t take up a full truck.
- Benefits: LTL is usually cheaper because you only pay for the space your sign uses. It’s also more flexible for smaller shipments.
Full Truckload (FTL):
- What It Is: FTL shipping means your sign will take up the entire truck. The truck goes directly from the pickup to the delivery location without stopping for other shipments.
- When to Use It: This is ideal if you’re shipping many signs or if your signs are very large and take up a lot of space.
- Benefits: FTL is faster because the truck doesn’t make other stops. It’s also safer for delicate or high-value signs because less handling is involved.
Choosing the right method depends on the size of your shipment, your budget, and how quickly you need the signs to arrive.
Insurance for Your Shipment
Insurance is an important part of shipping large signs. It helps protect you financially if something goes wrong during transit, like if your sign gets damaged or lost.
Why You Need Insurance:
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your shipment is covered helps reduce stress.
- Financial Protection: If your sign gets damaged or lost, insurance can help cover the cost of repair or replacement.
Types of Coverage:
- Carrier Liability: Freight carriers are required to offer a basic level of coverage. This might not cover the full value of your sign, especially if it’s expensive.
- Additional Insurance: You can purchase extra insurance to cover the full value of your sign. This is often a good idea for high-value or fragile signs.
When you ship with FreightCenter, they can help you understand your insurance options and choose the right coverage for your needs.
Determining Freight Class for Large Signs
Freight class classifies shipments based on their size, weight, density, and other factors. It’s important because it affects the cost of shipping and how the carrier handles your sign.
Factors That Determine Freight Class:
- Density: How much space your sign takes up in relation to its weight. A lighter but bulkier sign might have a higher freight class.
- Stowability: How easily your sign can be stored with other freight. Odd shapes or sizes might affect this.
- Handling: Loading, unloading, and handling your sign is difficult. Fragile or heavy signs might need special handling.
- Liability: The risk of damage or theft. Higher-value items often have a higher freight class.
How to Determine Freight Class:
- Measure and Weigh: Start by getting the accurate dimensions and weight of your packaged sign.
- Use a Freight Class Calculator: Many shipping companies, including FreightCenter, offer online tools to help you calculate the freight class based on your measurements and other factors.
- Consult with FreightCenter: Their experts can help you determine the correct freight class and ensure you get the best rate.
Pickup and Delivery Services Offered by FreightCenter
FreightCenter offers a variety of pickup and delivery services to make shipping large signs easier. Here are some of the options you can choose from:
Pickup Services:
- Standard Pickup: The carrier will come to your location and pick up the packaged sign. Make sure your sign is ready to go and easily accessible.
- Liftgate Service: If you don’t have a loading dock, liftgate service can help. The truck will have a lift to lower the sign from the truck to the ground.
Delivery Services:
- Standard Delivery: The carrier will deliver the sign to the specified address. Ensure there’s someone available to receive it.
- Inside Delivery: If you need the sign brought inside, this service can be added. It’s useful for heavy or bulky signs that are hard to move.
- Residential Delivery: If you’re shipping to a home, residential delivery services are available. This includes navigating smaller streets and driveways.
By choosing the right pickup and delivery services, you can make the shipping process smoother and more convenient.
When it comes to shipping large signs, businesses often require various types depending on their needs and marketing strategies. Here are four different types of large signs that a business may need to ship.
Shipping billboards can be a complex task due to their size and weight. At FreightCenter, we offer tailored logistics solutions to ensure your billboard arrives securely at its destination. Our experienced team understands the importance of timely delivery, especially for outdoor advertising campaigns that rely on high visibility to attract potential customers.
Lightweight and versatile, banners are a great marketing tool for events and promotions. FreightCenter provides efficient shipping options for banners, ensuring they are rolled or folded correctly to prevent damage during transit. We work with trusted carriers who understand how to handle these materials, so your banners arrive in pristine condition, ready to make an impact.
Effective wayfinding signs are crucial for directing customers and enhancing their experience at your location. FreightCenter is equipped to ship these larger signs, coordinating with you to ensure they are packaged properly and delivered on time. Our logistics network allows us to handle various materials and sizes, providing you with peace of mind as your signs guide visitors.
These striking freestanding structures serve as prominent identifiers for businesses. Shipping monolith signs requires careful planning due to their size and weight. At FreightCenter, we specialize in managing the logistics to ensure your sign is transported safely. Our team will collaborate with you to determine the best shipping method, minimizing the risk of damage and ensuring your sign arrives ready for installation.
Essential Documentation for Freight Shipping
When shipping large signs, having the right documentation is crucial. Proper paperwork ensures that your shipment is processed smoothly and reaches its destination without delays. Here are the key documents you need:
Bill of Lading (BOL):
- What It Is: The BOL is a contract between you and the carrier. It details what’s being shipped, where it’s going, and who is responsible for it.
- Information to Include: Make sure the BOL includes the shipper and receiver’s contact information, a description of the sign, the freight class, and any special instructions.
Packing List:
- What It Is: A packing list itemizes the contents of the shipment.
- Why It’s Important: It helps verify what’s in the package and is useful for customs if shipping internationally.
Insurance Documents:
- What It Is: If you purchased additional insurance, include the insurance documents.
- Why It’s Important: These documents provide proof of coverage and details on how to file a claim if needed.
Special Handling Instructions:
- What It Is: Any specific instructions for handling your sign during transit.
- Why It’s Important: Ensuring the carrier knows how to handle your sign properly helps prevent damage.
Having all the necessary documentation ready and accurate helps avoid delays and ensures your sign is handled correctly throughout the shipping process.
Tracking Your Shipment
Once your sign is on its way, you’ll want to track its progress to make sure it arrives on time. FreightCenter provides tools to help you do this easily.
Using FreightCenter’s Tracking Tools:
- Online Tracking: FreightCenter offers an online tracking system where you can enter your shipment’s tracking number to see its status.
- Updates: You’ll receive updates on your shipment’s location and estimated delivery time.
- Notifications: Set up notifications to get alerts via email or text about any changes or delays.
Why Tracking is Important:
- Peace of Mind: Knowing where your shipment is helps reduce anxiety about its arrival.
- Proactive Management: If there are any delays or issues, tracking allows you to address them quickly.
By staying on top of your shipment’s status, you can ensure everything goes smoothly and be prepared for its arrival.
Compliance with Shipping Regulations
Shipping large signs, especially if they contain special materials or are going internationally, may require compliance with certain regulations. Here’s what you need to know:
Domestic Shipping Regulations:
- Hazardous Materials: If your sign contains any hazardous materials (like certain types of lights), make sure to follow regulations for shipping hazardous goods.
- Size and Weight Limits: Be aware of any size and weight restrictions imposed by the carrier. Exceeding these limits can result in additional fees or refusal of shipment.
International Shipping Regulations:
- Customs Documentation: When shipping internationally, you’ll need to provide customs documents, including a commercial invoice and packing list.
- Duties and Taxes: Be prepared to pay any import duties or taxes required by the destination country.
- Restricted Items: Check if any components of your sign are restricted or prohibited in the destination country.
How to Ensure Compliance:
- Consult with FreightCenter: Their experts can help you understand and comply with all relevant regulations.
- Research Requirements: Look up regulations specific to your shipment’s destination to avoid any surprises.
Following the rules and regulations helps prevent delays, fines, and other issues during shipping.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
Cost Management and Saving Tips
Shipping large signs can be expensive, but there are ways to manage costs and save money.
Here are some tips:
Obtain Multiple Quotes:
- Shop Around: Get quotes from multiple carriers through FreightCenter to compare prices.
- Understand What’s Included: Make sure you know what services, such as pickup, delivery, and insurance, are included in each quote.
Consolidate Shipments:
- Combine Shipments: If you’re shipping multiple signs, try to consolidate them into one shipment to save on costs.
Flexible Scheduling:
- Off-Peak Times: Shipping during off-peak times can be cheaper. Ask FreightCenter about the best times to ship to get lower rates.
Use the Right Packaging:
- Efficient Packaging: Use packaging that fits your sign well without excessive extra space. This can help reduce shipping costs based on size.
Negotiate Rates:
- Ask for Discounts: Don’t be afraid to ask FreightCenter or the carrier for any available discounts or to negotiate a better rate, especially if you’re a frequent shipper.
You can easily ship your large signs by managing costs and taking advantage of savings opportunities.
Shipping large signs doesn’t have to be daunting. By choosing FreightCenter, you can use their expertise, wide range of services, and helpful customer support to ensure your shipment goes smoothly. From proper packaging and choosing the right shipping method to tracking your shipment and managing costs, this guide has covered all the essential steps.
Whether you’re a first-time shipper or looking to streamline your shipping process, these tips and insights will help you get your large signs where they need to go safely and efficiently. For any further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact FreightCenter and get started with your shipment today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Can I ship oversized signs through freight carriers?
Yes, freight shipping is the safest and most cost-effective method for transporting large signs, including dimensional or irregularly shaped signage.
Q. What types of signs can FreightCenter ship?
We ship monument signs, channel letters, lightbox signs, vehicle wraps, billboards, vinyl banners, directional signage, LED displays, and more.
Q. How do I package a large sign for freight shipping?
Use padding and foam to protect the sign face and edges, and secure it in a crate or on a pallet. FreightCenter can connect you with packaging specialists for fragile or high-value signs.
Q. Is crating required for shipping signs?
For most large or fragile signs, yes. Crating reduces risk of bending, breaking, or surface damage during transport.
Q. How much does it cost to ship a large sign?
Costs vary depending on dimensions, weight, distance, and handling needs. Signs that exceed standard freight dimensions may require flatbed or specialized equipment. FreightCenter compares rates across 50+ carriers to help you save. Use our free quote tool to get a price to ship a sign.
Q. What’s the best way to ship rigid signs or panels?
Rigid signs like acrylic, metal, or plastic panels should be shipped in protective crates or strapped to pallets with corner guards and padding to prevent shifting.
Q. Can I ship illuminated or LED signs?
Yes! FreightCenter offers white-glove and specialized freight services for illuminated signs, ensuring delicate electrical components are protected in transit.
Q. Do I need a forklift to load my sign?
If your sign is over 100 lbs or not easily hand-loaded, you may need a forklift or liftgate. FreightCenter arranges these accessorials based on your pickup and delivery locations.
Q. What’s the freight class for shipping signs?
Freight class is determined by size, weight, and packaging. Signs often fall between Class 150–250, but FreightCenter helps you assign the correct class to avoid reclassification fees.
Q. Can I track my sign shipment in real time?
Yes, all shipments booked through FreightCenter come with real-time tracking and updates so you always know where your freight is.
Q. Do I need insurance to ship a large sign?
We recommend insurance for all high-value or custom signs. FreightCenter offers shipment insurance options that protect against damage or loss.
Q. Can I ship a sign internationally?
Absolutely. FreightCenter provides international sign shipping services, including help with finding reliable ocean or air freight carriers.
Q. How long does it take to ship a large sign?
Transit times vary based on distance, mode (LTL, FTL, or flatbed), and service level. Most domestic shipments arrive in 2–7 business days, with expedited options available.
Q. How do I get a quote for shipping a sign?
Use FreightCenter’s free online quote tool or call (800) 716-7608. Our experts help you select the right service, calculate dimensions, and plan your shipment with no guesswork.
Insights About Shipping Large Signs
Even Lightweight Signs Can Be Oversized Freight
Acrylic or foam-core signs may weigh very little, but if they exceed standard dimensions (typically 96 inches in length or width), they’re classified as oversized freight—which affects the cost, mode of transport, and delivery timeline. FreightCenter helps you find the right equipment, like flatbeds or step decks, to move signs without damage or delay.
Improper Packaging Is the #1 Cause of Sign Damage
Large signs are often scratched, bent, or shattered in transit—not because of mishandling, but because they weren’t packaged with edge protectors, foam padding, or crating. FreightCenter connects you with packaging experts or gives you best practices to avoid costly freight claims.
You May Need Appointment Delivery for Install Teams
If your signage is headed to a business, construction site, or retail location, delivery often has to be timed with installation crews or equipment. FreightCenter coordinates appointment delivery and liftgate services to make sure your sign arrives when and how it’s needed.
