How to Ship a Compound Bow: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you want to ship a compound bow, take its measurements, wrap the parts with a wide bubble wrap, fit everything in a well-cushioned shipping box, and seal the box adequately. Next, find an affordable shipping solution.
Many people who are into archery professionally or as hobbies sometimes need to ship compound bows.
It may be to buyers or friends. But many do not know how or where to start. One must consider various factors for the package to reach the receiver in its best form and as it should.
Do you wonder how to ship a compound bow? If so, this article gives you general ideas and tips about how.
Table of Contents
What You Need to Prepare
- The compound bow you need to ship
- Measuring tools to get the dimensions of the compound bow for accurate box fitting
- Bubble wrap to cover the edges and parts of your compound bow
- A shipping box to keep the bow safe during transportation
- Extra cushioning for the shipping box like foam peanuts and foam fillers for the corners/edges
- Packaging tape to seal the shipping box
- A shipping label with details of the receiver, destination, and contents
- Money to take care of shipping fees and any extra charges
How to Pack a Compound Bow

In this guide, you will learn how to ship a compound bow safely and efficiently, like a pro. By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of damage during shipping.
1. Determine Your Compound Bow Dimensions

It is best to start by determining how long and wide the compound bow is.
To do that, measure your compound bow axle to axle- (the points at which the limbs attach to the cams) to determine the compound bow’s length.
For the width, measure vertically from the end of the bowstring.
Tip: Remember to add a few inches for every measurement for extra allowance.
2. Create a Shipping Box for the Compound Bow

Once you have determined your compound bow’s dimensions, it is time to choose a shipping box that will perfectly fit it.
You can choose to buy a box from a local store or save yourself the costs by using an old box.
Tip: The box you use should have extra but just enough space for the bow’s cams and extra cushioning.
Do not leave huge voids since that will have you misuse packaging materials.
3. Secure the Compound Bow and its Accessories Before Packing

Use the bubble wrap to cover the bow’s edges- the limbs, cams, risers, cables, cable guards, etc., then secure the bubble wrap with the packaging tape.
Securing your compound bow with a wide bubble wrap is crucial since it protects it from friction/scratching or contact that may create dents during transportation.
Tip: You can give the midsection and cams extra protection just in case stuff is laid on your box during shipping.
4. Box the Secured Compound Bow

Put the wrapped contents in the shipping box. Or, if your bow is in its original case, put the case in the shipping box.
Add extra cushioning to prevent the contents from shifting inside the parcel to be used for shipping and ensure the box’s flaps are adequately sealed.
Tip: To seal your shipping box in the best way, tape it with an “H” seal method the way most shipping companies do it.
5. Label Your Package

You will need to label your shipping box for identification purposes and have your details and the receivers.
For easy identification, you can have two sides with the details.
In addition, if you are using labeled paper, you can wrap it with extra protection, provided the details are visible.
It will prevent them from getting lost or even damaged. It is not advisable to cover barcodes, if any.
Tip: You can place clear packaging tape on the label to prevent the details from smearing. Additionally, you can mark your shipping box as sporting equipment and indicate that the contents are fragile.
6. You’re Ready to Go

Now your compound bow is ready for shipping.
All you have to do is wait for its pick up by the postman, or you can take it to a mailing station near you for immediate shipping.
How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Compound Bow?
Now, your compound bow is ready for shipping. But how much funds should you have ready to ship the compound bow efficiently?
Depending on your destination and service, shipping a compound bow will cost you around $35 and above.
You can send the package via USPS, FedEx, or UPS. It may take about two to five business days if you ship domestically.
International shipping takes longer and costs more if you factor in customs charges and importation taxes.
If you use a standard service, the cost will also be cheaper and take longer than an express service.
The weight of your package also determines the cost of shipping. Some shipping companies may also charge based on the size of your box.
The Cheapest Way to Ship a Compound Bow
The cheapest way to ship a compound bow would be via your local post office- USPS Priority Mail.
You can protect your package with insurance, which comes at an added cost for the signature service.
You can insure your compound bow for $500, then pay $20-$25 for the delivery signature, which is determined by the bow’s destination.
If you’re looking to ship and pack other types of bow or bow parts, check out some of these other guides:
Final Thoughts
Those who are into archery as professionals or do it for fun may find shipping a compound bow quite tricky, especially when they have to put everything together.
Nevertheless, I hope this guide has been helpful, and it will be practical if you need to ship a compound bow soon.
Remember to use the tips I have provided to give your package extra protection and ensure it reaches the receiver in good condition.
If you enjoyed and found the information in this post helpful, feel free to share it with others.