How to ship a computer monitor is not that difficult if you follow a few simple rules. Make sure there is plenty of bubble wrap around it, and never overlook the necessity of foam on the edges. Find the correct box, choose the courier, and your computer monitor is ready to go.
Computer components have always represented a challenge in shipping, whether you sell your old computer or run a business.
The problem is some parts can get damaged without the damage being visible.
Computer monitors are even more challenging because the screen can be broken easily by dropping the box or throwing it around.
This guide will show you how to ship a computer monitor by packing it like professionals.
Table of Contents
What You Need to Prepare
- The monitor you want to send
- All the cords and cables associated with it
- Loads of bubble wrap to protect the monitor
- Pieces of foam for the sides and corners of the monitor
- Shipping box is just slightly larger than the monitor
- Small bag for all the cables and cords
- Packing peanuts for an extra layer of cushioning
- Tape to seal the shipping box
- Shipping labels
- Money to cover the shipping costs
How to Pack Computer Monitors
In this guide, you will learn how to ship computer monitors safely and efficiently, like a pro. By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of damage during shipping.
1. Keep Parts Separate for the Shipping Procedure
Unplug all the cables and cords from the monitor.
Even if some of them can be screwed in, remove everything.
A bit of pressure on where the cable goes in could damage all plugs.
Remove everything and put all the wires into a bag.
The monitor will be wrapped individually.
Cables will be alright in a plastic bag, despite the exposure.
It is just as helpful if you have an original box in the right size.
2. Wrap the Monitor to Ensure a Top-Notch Protection
This is the part that requires plenty of attention, as well as lots of bubble wrap.
A monitor is fragile, so you need to secure it accordingly.
Imagine the box on the ground in a courier warehouse and someone tripping on it – they could break the screen.
Wrap the monitor in bubble wrap and go a few times around it.
Before the bubble wrap, you need to seal all edges with foam pieces.
If you have large pieces of foam, you can wrap the monitor first, add the foam pieces, and add some more.
The role of this foam is to protect the edges and the computer screen.
3. Place the Monitor in an Upright Position in the Shipping Box
The shipping box can be slightly larger than your package.
Add some packing peanuts at the bottom and place the monitor on top.
The bottom layer must be super tight.
Keep the monitor in the middle and add more packing peanuts around it and on top until the box is full.
Close the box and shake it a bit, so the packing peanuts settle.
Open it, fill it up and do it again until the packaging is tight and secure.
4. Seal the Box
Seal the box with tape. A bit of tape will not do – you can exaggerate here.
The last thing you want is the box opening up accidentally, the monitor, and all the packing peanuts floating on the floor.
Roll tape a few times around the opening of the box.
Extra tape around the edges will also help to keep the box together.
Write fragile on the box.
It is not a guarantee that someone will care while handling the package, but it is not a bad idea to pay it safe – you never know.
You can also wrap the box around – just like some people wrap their suitcases in airports.
It is an extra layer of protection but not mandatory if your parcel is sturdy.
It might be a good idea to ship the monitor long-distance or abroad, though.
5. Get Your Shipping Labels and Ship the Monitor
Get some shipping labels, and your monitor is ready to go.
You will most likely have to pay for them, yet there are methods to get free shipping labels.
Stick them on the package, get to the courier of your choice and drop the package – some couriers can also pick up parcels from your home.
How Much Does it Cost to Ship Computer Monitors?
Costs to ship a monitor depend on more factors.
Different couriers will charge you differently.
Typically, you should get ready to pay about $50 to send a monitor locally – within the USA, regardless of the state.
Then, you can choose standard shipping or perhaps next-day delivery – there are different types of express deliveries out there.
Most couriers will charge based on the weight.
Most monitors weigh less than 10 pounds, so you will likely pay flat fees.
Some couriers will also count the size of the box in the process.
For international shipping, expect to pay around $100 to ship it.
The Cheapest Way to Ship Computer Monitors
USPS is probably the most cost-efficient option when not sure how to ship a computer monitor.
It is inexpensive, and it provides more shipping options.
You will most likely pay a flat rate for this package, which is even better.
Keep in mind that you will need to get the shipping labels too, which will add to the price.
To keep prices even lower, sign up with Pirate Ship and print your labels for free.
Not only do you save money, but you also save a bit of time – primarily if you use USPS regularly. You will have to weigh the parcel yourself, though.
If the monitor is too expensive, you might have to consider insurance.
Final Thoughts
Bottom line, figuring out how to ship a computer monitor is not rocket science.
Protect it accordingly with lots of wrapping and cushioning, then choose the suitable courier to get the job done.
The USPS and Pirate Ship combo is probably the least expensive way to ship your computer monitor.
Safety is critical when shipping such fragile items, so ensure the unit is adequately wrapped.
