How to Ship Furniture on eBay

Large items can be sold on eBay and shipped safely to buyers.

Selling larger items, like furniture, on eBay can often accrue hefty shipping fees. Before you list your grandmother's dining set for auction, look into the shipping options available and the costs your buyers will incur. You will need to state this information in your item description, as well details about the countries from where you are willing to accept bids. Even shipping over the border to Canada can be far pricier than sending freight from California to Kansas, for example.

Things You'll Need

• Basic tool kit (for disassembly)
• Crates or sturdy boxes
• Padding and bubble wrap

Instructions

Ship Your Larger eBay Auction Sales

1. Decide which type of shipping will be best for your item and packing abilities. There are two basic options: standard freight and white-glove services. With standard freight shipping, you are responsible for disassembly and packing of the furniture you are selling. White-glove services do all the packing for you.

2. 

   Use the Internet to check out freight companies.

   Research various freight companies. Do an internet search to not only find a shipping company but to check for customer complaints against specific companies. The Better Business Bureau's website is a good place to start. Members of the Better Business Bureau have a list of complaints made and if they were resolved.

3. 

   Wrap every inch of your furniture prior to shipping.

   Disassemble and pre-pack the furniture to avoid the stress of rushing. Your shipping company will tell you how to pack your items. If you are using a white-glove service, ask if they will pre-pack and hold your furniture until the auction ends.

4. 

   If there is a dispute, prepare for it with pictures.

   Take pictures throughout the packing process. If an item is damaged in transit, photos will prove the condition that the furniture was in prior to shipping.

Tips & Warnings

• Offer local pick-up. Many customers search for auctions near their homes.

• While packing, don't leave any of the item uncovered. You can never over wrap.

References

• Better Business Bureau
• UShip
• FreightCenter: Shipping Furniture Through Standard Freight