How to Ship a Crossbow: Packing Requirements & Safety Standards to Prevent Damaging It
“How to ship a crossbow is a common issue in the industry because most people find it difficult due to its fragile profile. Learn how to wrap it for protection and pack it accordingly before shipping it over, especially if you no longer have the original case.“
Shipping a crossbow can be difficult because the item is large and fragile. It is not as sturdy as other things and can easily snap if poorly handled.
Learning how to ship a crossbow is not that complicated, though – there are a few general rules to follow. It makes no difference if you sell crossbows or you want to return a damaged crossbow.
This guide will teach you everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
What You Need to Prepare
How to Pack a Crossbow
In this guide, you will learn how to ship a crossbow safely and efficiently, like a pro. By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of damage during shipping.
1. Prepare the Crossbow
The crossbow should not be shipped cocked.
Even if some states or countries accept this option, it is not recommended.
A slight impact could trigger the crossbow, so it is better to play it safe – you do not want any accidents.
In an ideal case, you should disassemble the crossbow and wrap each part separately, but this is not a general rule.
2. Protect the Crossbow with Bubble Wrap
The most exposed parts of the crossbow? Its edges.
Cover the whole thing in bubble wrap, but insist around the edges.
Once wrapped, use tape to secure the bubble wrap in place. More is better, so do not try to save money there.
Use tape here and there throughout the process to keep everything in place – not just at the end.
3. Make a Cardboard Sandwich
You need to find cardboard – or perhaps a big box and cut it into pieces.
These cardboard squares should be approximately the size of the crossbow.
Put two on a firm surface, such as a table.
Ensure the groove is opposite to them – one goes horizontally, and the other goes vertically.
Place the crossbow on top, then add two more cardboard squares in the same way.
Add some more layers of tape to keep this crossbow sandwich together.
You do not want the crossbow moving around, as it can scratch.
4. Prepare the Cushioning and Box
The box does not have to be much bigger than the crossbow.
Providing some sizing standards is difficult because each crossbow is different.
You could have a tiny one for newbies or a large crossbow for more experienced users.
Open the box and add some packing peanuts at the bottom.
You can also add newspaper if you want some extra cushioning – it makes a good alternative, yet it is not as fully protective as packing peanuts.
Put the crossbow sandwich in, add more packing peanuts, and cover it completely.
The point is to ensure you have a floating crossbow in the middle of the box.
It is protected by the extra cardboard anyway, but you never know how people deal with the box, so try to play it safe.
5. Seal the Box
Close the box and shake it a little – see if anything moves in there.
Open it and if you can see gaps, add even more packing peanuts.
Once you are done, close the box and use tape to seal it.
Feel free to exaggerate a little – you want to ensure the package will not open up accidentally.
Wrap the entire box in foil. If you use clear foil, grab a marker and write fragile on it. Make sure it is visible.
There is no evidence that courier employees are more careful when they see it, but at least they will try to keep the box undamaged, so it looks like transportation was fine.
It is just a safe bet – worth it.
6. Label Your Package
Get the correct shipping label for your package and ensure the fragile text – or sticker – is visible. Once this step is done, your crossbow is ready to go.
How Much Does it Cost to a Crossbow?
Shipping a crossbow will not be cheap because you send a large item over. It could be considered sports equipment or perhaps a weapon. It depends on the company, state, laws, and regulations.
“The price may vary between $40 and over $100.”
It depends on what courier you choose. Usually, you should be charged based on the weight – most couriers do that.
However, you could also consider the box size – after all, a crossbow is not a CD or a tiny laptop.
You will most likely be asked what is in the box – if it is considered a special or dangerous item, an extra charge will apply.
The Cheapest Way to Ship a Crossbow
“USPS will charge you around $40 to ship a crossbow locally, which is one of the cheapest rates.”
You can use a softbox and pay less than that, but you can also use an original box – such as a stingray hard care – and pay over $50.
You must get shipping labels – either pay for them at USPS or print them yourself from a different provider.
Pirate Ship provides a free USPS shipping software to save some money there – you need to make an account first.
While USPS is relatively cheap, Pirate Ship makes the whole deal even more inexpensive with its software and almost impossible to beat. It is worth noting that you will need your scale.
Final Thoughts
Bottom line, while a crossbow looks aggressive and dangerous, it is a delicate item that must be shipped accordingly.
An original hard case is ideal for transportation, but you can also send older models by paying special attention to the cushioning around them.
If you found the post helpful, share it with others who may face the same struggle.
