How to ship large items fast

Challenges with shipping large, heavy, or oversized items 

With around 90% of world trade moved by ocean¹, there is immense pressure on freight forwarding services, which is being felt by businesses around the world. A DHL survey found that “capacity and pricing challenges with freight forwarders” is a leading concern for its customers – at a time when e-commerce volumes have never been greater. 

Thankfully, there is a more stable alternative to freight forwarding: Express shipping. Already millions of businesses call on the expertise of DHL Express to send light items and small consignments. But what many don't realize is that the same fixed price, time-definite international service can be used for heavier and larger shipments too.  

Read on to find out how to ship a large package or heavy items through DHL Express. 

Large vs heavy vs oversized items: what’s the difference? 

When it comes to freight forwarding, the size and weight of your cargo play a crucial role in determining the shipping method, cost, and logistics. Let's break down the key differences between large, heavy, and oversized items to better understand how to ship big packages. 

Large items

• Definition: Large items are typically those with two sides measuring more than 800mm, or one side that exceeds 1200mm, but which aren't necessarily heavy. They might take up significant space in a container or require special handling due to their size. 
• Examples: Flat-pack furniture (bookshelves, desks, wardrobes), fitness equipment (exercise bikes, treadmills, rowing machines), home entertainment (large speakers, soundbars, big-screen TVs).  

Heavy items 

• Definition: Heavy items are those that ​exceed 30kg, which often require more than one person or specialized equipment to lift. These items can pose challenges due to their density and potential to damage standard shipping containers. 
• Examples: Large appliances (washing machines, refrigerators), palletized goods (food supplies, construction materials), industrial machinery (generators, compressors). 

Oversized items 

• Definition: Oversized items, also known as out-of-gauge (OOG) cargo, exceed standard container dimensions in terms of length (300cm), width (200cm), height (160cm), or a combination of these. They often require specialized transportation methods. 
• Examples: Automotive parts (engines, transmissions), medical equipment (hospital beds, diagnostic scanners)large musical instruments (pianos, drum kits). 

How to ship heavy or large items: weight and size limits 

One of the best and most convenient ways to ship large boxes or heavy items is through DHL Express. Above you will find the maximum size and weight limits for each shipment. 

Maximum sizes for large or heavy items delivery through DHL Express 

Each individual piece for shipping should not exceed a length of 300cm with a width of 200cm. The height of the piece is set at a maximum of 160cm. However, a height of up to 180cm is possible with a separate approval. 

Maximum weight for large or heavy items delivery through DHL Express 

Each individual piece should not exceed 1,000kg. The entire shipment can only have a maximum weight of 3,000kg.   

For items that exceed either the size or weight limits, special bookings may be required. 

For further details on exact size and weight limits, pricing structures, and a guide to protecting your goods, download our packing guide. 

How much does it cost to ship large and heavy items? 

The cost of shipping a large or heavy item will vary depending on a number of  factors: the size and weight of the item, of course; where it's travelling from and to; the type of service you opt for; whether you add insurance, customs brokerage or other value-added services; and whether it requires special handling  – because it's fragile perhaps, or contain hazardous materials.  

The best advice to talk to an expert who can run you through the various options and help you work it out. 

How to ship a pallet 

Pallets provide a sturdy base for securing heavy items, making them easier to handle, load, and unload during transit. They are among the best ways to ship heavy items.  

When sending heavy, bulky or palletized items – especially with express services – it's important to stick  to specific guidelines to prevent damage, delays, or even rejection of your shipment. 

DHL Express Palletized Shipping Guidelines 

• Opt for pallets with dimensions up to 120 cm (W) x 120 cm (L) for shipments and ensure the height does not exceed 160 cm. 
  
• Ensure your goods are securely packed in boxes, crates, or directly onto the pallet. Use appropriate strapping, banding, or shrink wrap to secure items to the pallet. 
  
• Choose items that can be safely stacked on top of each other. Odd-shaped or non-stackable items may incur surcharges. 
  
• Be mindful of weight restrictions. Individual pieces should not exceed 70 kg without incurring a surcharge, and the maximum piece weight is 1000 kg. The total shipment weight should not exceed 3000 kg. 
  
• Avoid pieces with lengths exceeding 300 cm or widths exceeding 200 cm, as DHL Express does not accept them. 
  
• ​​Avoid damage in transit by making sure your goods are properly packaged and secured safely and securely to the pallet.​​     ​ 
  

For the full picture, this packing guide has all the Dos and Don'ts of palletized shipping, so your goods get to where they need to be on time and without damage or delay.  

Tips for shipping heavy and large items 

Shipping heavy and large items, whether it's furniture, machinery, or industrial equipment, requires careful planning and preparation. Here are some essential tips on how to ship large items effectively. 

Use a Strong Box 

Choose a sturdy box that can withstand the weight and size of your items. Avoid using old or damaged boxes, as they are more prone to collapsing during transit. 

Use Heavy-Duty Packing Tape 

Securely seal all seams and edges of the box with heavy-duty packing tape. Reinforce the bottom and top of the box with additional tape for extra strength.  

Consider Dividing the Shipment into Multiple Packages 

If your shipment contains exceptionally large or heavy items, the best way to ship it may be to divide it into multiple smaller packages. This can make handling and transportation easier and potentially reduce shipping costs.  

Ensure Necessary Documentation for Customs & Shipping 

If you're shipping internationally, ensure you have all the necessary documentation for customs clearance. This may include commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and other relevant documents. Check with your shipping provider for specific requirements. 

What are the benefits of shipping heavy/large items with DHL Express?  

Stability 

Since DHL Express relies solely on air and land rather than sea freight, it’s more resilient against some of the market disruptions currently impacting freight forwarding services. 

Speed 

With DHL Express’s Time Definite shipping, you can be sure your shipments will get to where they need to be, on time and in one piece – whatever their size. 

Cost 

DHL Express offers a transparent, all-in-one pricing structure which removes the uncertainty of additional costs further down the line – things like export documentation, airport handling and delivery, which can ramp up the price of traditional freight forwarding services considerably. 

Customs 

DHL Express has extensive worldwide customs knowledge and experience. They understand that a smooth and efficient customs clearance process is key to ensuring your shipments arrive as quickly as possible. This service is included in your standard shipping price​

End-to-end visibility 

You’ll be able to track your shipment and request notifications of its progress. Peace of mind for you and your customers. 

Customer Service 

DHL Express’s Certified International Specialists have all the experience and expertise to find solutions to your shipping challenges, whatever they may be. 

Let's get things moving... 

Shipping big items doesn’t have to be daunting – it’s just about knowing how to handle the unique challenges that come with their size and weight.  DHL's extensive experience in handling heavy, large, and oversized items makes them a trusted partner for your shipping needs. Their global network, specialized equipment, and commitment to adhering to industry best practices ensures that your cargo is always in safe hands. 

If you don't currently ship with DHL Express, but are ready to enjoy the benefits,​​ ​open ​​​an account by clicking the button below.