Shipping Printers
Shipping printers has become an integral part of modern logistics, enabling businesses and individuals to receive their printing devices promptly and efficiently.
The Best Way to Make Shipping Printers Easy and Affordable
Shipping printers–primarily commercial-grade printers, copiers, and plotters–is a heavy job. Standard parcel carriers (such as USPS) can’t handle any item that weighs more than 150 lb. or doesn’t meet dimension requirements. For commercial printing equipment, shipping by freight is the answer.
We believe that FreightCenter stands out as a reliable and customer-centric choice for shipping your printer. Our comprehensive services, network of reputable carriers, advanced tracking technology, competitive pricing, and responsive customer support make us an excellent partner for hassle-free and secure printer shipments.
Choosing the Right Freight Transportation Method to Ship a Printer
Printers, especially those with delicate components, require careful handling and protection during transit. By selecting the appropriate freight transportation method, you can mitigate the risk of damage or mishandling. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a transportation method:
- Size and Weight
- Fragility and Special Handling Requirements
- Transit Time
- Destination and Distance
- Cost
- Tracking and Visibility
- Carrier Reputation and Reliability
- Insurance and Liability Coverage
The three most common modes of freight transportation when shipping printers are air freight, ocean freight, and ground freight. Air freight is known for its speed and efficiency, making it an ideal choice for time-sensitive shipments. Ocean freight refers to shipping goods via cargo vessels across the sea. It is often the preferred choice for shipping large volumes of printers or bulky equipment. Ground freight involves transporting goods over land using trucks or trains. It is a versatile option for domestic or regional shipments.
How to Package Commercial Printing Products for Freight Shipping
Make sure you secure all loose pieces with masking tape and use shrink wrap or paper to cover any plastic components from getting easily scratched. Unless you are shipping enough pieces to require a full truckload (TL), your shipment will be classified as a less-than-truckload (LTL). LTL shipments are consolidated onto one truck with loads from other shippers, thereby saving all the shippers money. However, it would help if you packaged your machinery to easily withstand any minor impact with another shipment that might occur in transit.
We recommend using one of these two techniques to protect your shipment:
1)Band your shipment to a pallet and shrink-wrap it to add additional security. Protective shipping blankets are also advised.
2)Crating your shipment will provide the best protection.
How Much Will It Cost to Ship a Printer?
Because FreightCenter books so much shipping, we receive intense discounts from carriers and pass savings on to our customers. Typically, FreightCenter customers receive 25%, 50%, 75%, or more discounts versus shipping directly through the carrier. If you are no more than an occasional shipper, major freight carriers will not be interested in your business unless you pay the full rate card.
How to Compare Freight Shipping Costs From Trusted Carriers When Shipping Printers
FreightCenter is where the best freight carriers compete for your business. We enable you to compare multiple carriers’ rates and expected transit times in seconds. Costs vary depending on the carrier, place of origin, destination, dimensions, etc. Once you’ve prepared your printer to ship, it will be easy to determine how much shipping will cost with our free quote comparison tool. You will need to enter the following information:
- Originating and destination zip codes.
- Packaged weight
- Dimensions of the package
- NMFC (freight class) – if you don’t know the freight class, select NO and click the “Get my quotes” button
If you’re ready to move forward, book your shipment online. In a matter of seconds, you will receive quotes from leading carriers who want to carry your load, as well as estimates on the transit time for each carrier. Select the carrier of your choice to save your quote.
What if You Need Help?
FreightCenter’s team of shipping experts is ready to help you at each step along the way.
- Making sure you select the right carrier for your needs
- Verifying that all information is correct
- Double-checking for any additional charges that might be required if the carrier will face limited access or other special circumstances
Call 800.716.7608 for assistance or fill out the free quote form. Shipping is easy and affordable with FreightCenter.
Shipping Printers FAQ
Q. Are there any restrictions on shipping printers?
Freight carriers may have restrictions on certain types of printers or packaging materials. Check with the carrier about any specific restrictions, prohibited items, or hazardous materials related to your printer’s make and model.
Q. What should I do if my printer arrives damaged?
If your printer arrives damaged, immediately take photos of the damaged package and printer. Notify the freight carrier and the sender (shipper) about the damage and file a claim. Most freight carriers have specific procedures for handling damaged shipments, and the claim process should be initiated promptly to resolve the issue.
Q. Can I ship multiple printers together in one freight shipment?
Yes, you can ship multiple printers together in one freight shipment. Ensure that each printer is individually packaged following the preparation steps mentioned above. Use appropriate dividers or padding to keep them from bumping into each other during transit.
Q. Can I ship a printer with ink in it?
Yes, you can ship a printer with ink in it. However, if it’s an inkjet printer, there is no need to remove the ink cartridges if it is kept upright during shipping. But for laser printers, it’s necessary to remove the ink cartridges regardless of the printer’s positioning. Ensure proper packaging to prevent any potential leaks or damage.
Q. How do I prepare my printer for shipping?
To prepare your printer for shipping, follow these steps: First, unplug the printer cable and power cord. Secure all covers with adhesive tape to prevent them from opening during transportation. Finally, pack the printer in a plastic bag. These steps will ensure your printer is properly prepared for shipping.
