How to Ship Golf Clubs
Only golf players and enthusiasts know how back-breaking it is to travel with golf clubs. The best alternative here is to ship your golf clubs.
Whether you are a business or just an individual golf enthusiast, you might need clarification about how to ship golf clubs. As a shipping expert, I am here to help you with that.
There are three ways to ship your clubs. With a soft bag, inside a hard case, or packed in a corrugated box.
Let’s get into the art of How To Ship Golf Clubs without wasting time!
Packing Materials
Following are the essentials you need for packaging.
- Soft case/Hard case/Corrugated box.
- Bubble wrap.
- Packaging Tape.
- Zip tags.
- Zip ties.
Now, let’s discuss the three ways you can pack your clubs.
How To Pack Golf Clubs: Step By Step Guide
Step 1: Soft Bag Only
If you use the soft bag with your clubs, ensure each club is snugly secured inside. Think of it like tucking your clubs into bed for a cozy journey.
And if your clubs allow you to remove the heads, do it. Before unscrewing the heads, mark the joint between the heads and the shafts. This will save you time later putting those together again.
Carefully remove the heads and put those in the head covers. Securely put both the heads and the shafts inside the bag. Cover the extended part of your clubs with bubble wrap to secure it.
The more cushioning, better the packaging. So, do not hesitate to put extra tape, bubble wrap or any cushioning to safeguard your clubs
Step 2: Soft Bag in a Hard Case
Consider placing the packed soft bag inside a hard case for added protection. It’s like giving your clubs a sturdy suit of armor to shield them from any bumps or jolts during transit.
The hard case does not need extra packaging, as your soft bag is packed safely.
Step 3: Soft Bag in a Corrugated Box
Opting for a corrugated box provides versatility and customization for your packaging needs. But you must ensure the box is strong enough to withhold the weight.
Simply place your soft bag inside the box, ensuring it’s packed snugly to prevent any shifting or damage. You have to be extra safe while sealing your box. Leave no loose ends untaped.
You can buy the corrugated box from any nearby shop. Or you can get one from Amazon or any other marketplace.
Choose the packaging option that best suits your needs, and ensure your golf clubs arrive at their destination ready for a day on the green!
Labeling the Package
Labeling your package can be another challenge. I suggest you get two labels. One stays inside your bag. This will help the carrier company to identify your package even if your outer packaging is destroyed.
Put both labels in zip bags. Now, place one inside the soft bag.
If you are using the soft bag as the main package, zip-tie the second tag with the handle.
In the case of a hard shell, tape the label at the front side of the case. Do the same if you are using a corrugated box.
Tape all sides of the label well so the label stays stuck through transportation.
How Much is The Cost of Shipping?
The cost of shipping golf clubs can vary depending on several factors, including the shipping carrier, shipping method chosen, package weight, dimensions, and distance traveled.
As of my last update in January 2022, here are some general estimates:
Using standard ground services from carriers like USPS, FedEx, or UPS, costs can range from approximately $30 to $100 or more. This cost depends on the specifics of the shipment.
Expedited or express shipping options may incur higher costs but offer quicker delivery times. Usual ranging from approximately $50 to $200 or more.
Some carriers offer specialized services specifically tailored for shipping golf clubs, which may come with additional benefits but could also be more expensive.
Ship Sticks is such a service dedicated to shipping golf clubs. They also offer packaging services, in case you need it.
Their price range starts from $49. Again, it can vary on factors like weight, distance, and time.
To get an accurate quote for shipping your golf clubs, it’s recommended to contact your chosen shipping carrier directly or use their online shipping calculators. Be sure to provide accurate information about your package’s weight, dimensions, and destination to receive the most precise estimate.
Top Shipping Services for Golf Clubs
The best way to ship your golf clubs is to choose a good shipping service. Here are some recommended couriers for shipping golf clubs within the United States and estimated costs:
1. Ship Sticks: They specialize specifically in shipping golf clubs and bags. The standard cost starts from $49 as mentioned earlier. Besides, they charge $79-$99 for one golf bag.
The variation in the cost depends on packaging, weight, distance, and date. They offer different tiers of services like door-to-door pickup/delivery
2. USPS: USPS offers several shipping options for golf clubs, but the most cost-effective option is Retail Ground. This has a typical delivery time of 2-9 business days.
To ship a full set of clubs, you’ll need a large box that can hold up to 70 pounds.
The combined length and distance around the package cannot exceed 130 inches. Measure carefully before shipping to avoid additional oversized package fees.
The other USPS options—Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express—are faster but notably more expensive for a full set of clubs.
Here is an example of the expense:
3. UPS & FedEx: Unlike USPS, FedEx and UPS do not offer flat-rate shipping that allows golf clubs. Variable pricing based on weight, size, speed, and distance applies instead.
For the most cost-effective option, use 3-5 day FedEx/UPS ground shipping. With careful packaging, this runs typically $70-$100 for a full set of clubs.
Overnight delivery is available but substantially more expensive. Additional charges may apply for oversize dimensions. Rates vary by mile and seasonality as well.
For a better understanding, here is an example:
Ending Thoughts
Overall, proper packaging and carrier selection is key in safely and cost-effectively shipping golf clubs. Use a sturdy, padded golf travel case with protective supports to avoid damage. Measure dimensions accurately for quotes.
For domestic shipping, review parcel couriers like UPS and FedEx or companies like ShipSticks for the best rates. Ground service is most economical and reliable at 3-5 days. Add insurance to cover potential losses.
When shipping overseas, be mindful of customs forms, and duties/taxes. Use a carrier with global tracking. Time deliveries to account for extended transit times.