Packing and Shipping Your Used Bicycle

Packing Options

1. Get a box from a bike dealer
Pros: Usually get a sturdy bike box for free
Cons: The bike requires disassembly
Disassembly and packaging instructions for this option.

Note: Don't use flimsy cardboard boxes! Shipping companies eat bicycles in flimsy cardboard boxes for breakfast, lunch, and late-night snacks. Consider asking the dealer for two boxes, one slightly larger than the other and double box for extra protection. 
 
2. ShipBikes.com
Pros: Robust, easy to use shipping container, very little disassembly of bicycle required
Cons: Box cost
Shipbikes.com is a safe, convenient way to pack and ship a bicycle anywhere in the contiguous U.S. All you need to do is lower or remove the seat, rotate the handlebars back, and remove the front wheel. They offer door-to-door discounted service through FedEx and the entire transaction can be done online. Box and shipping cost is typically less than $200 in the contiguous U.S. For additional information and a shipping calculator visit ShipBikes.com.
 
3. Bike Dealer
Pros: They know what they're doing
Cons: Cost
It's worth a call, especially if you just bought your new bike from them.

4. UPS Store
Pros: Experience
Cons: Cost
This may be the most convenient option, but also the most expensive.
 

Shipping Options

FedEx, UPS and DHL are all good options. However, FedEx Ground is your fastest and cheapest option.

Click an icon for the shipping calculator:

                     

Note: In case it's not obvious...Insure the bicycle!

Amtrak
Amtrak has a service that takes bikes, Package Express (800-377-6914). They also sell bike boxes (you may need to give them advance notice). A bit erratic, but it may be worth looking into if you live along one of their routes as their rates are typically very reasonable.

Greyhound
Greyhound, too, has a Package Express (800-231-2222). But Aaron Teasdale said it best, "if you're willing to send your bike away, alone on a bus, you may as well duck tape it to the bumper of a passing car and hope it magically arrives at your destination."
 
If you have any questions about packing or shipping a bicycle you may contact TheBikeTraderOnline.com.