How to Ship a Single Piece of Furniture Without the Headache

Sometimes you only need to move one thing—like the dining room table I need to get from my parents. Because this is something I've never done before, I asked the experts at uShip to share their tips and recommendations for moving a single piece of furniture. Read on to learn how simple the process can be. Thanks to uShip for providing this helpful content for our readers (and me!). 

Shipping one piece of furniture—like a couch, bed, or dining table—can feel more complicated than moving a whole house. But it doesn't have to be. Whether you're sending a family heirloom across the country or furnishing a second home, the right prep and service can make the process smooth, affordable, and stress-free.

At uShip, we've helped thousands of people connect with experienced carriers who specialize in moving large items, including furniture. Here are five steps we recommend if you're shipping just one item.

Protecting your furniture starts with the right materials. Use moving blankets, bubble wrap, and corner protectors to prevent scratches or damage during transit. Most carriers on uShip offer blanket-wrapping services, which can save you time and effort—especially if you're short on packing supplies.

Single-item shipping is all about matching the right service level to your furniture's needs. Here are the most common options:

• White glove delivery: For fragile or high-value pieces, white glove delivery includes in-home pickup, careful handling, and even reassembly at your destination.
• Expedited shipping: In a time crunch? Expedited shipping ensures faster delivery without sacrificing care—perfect for last-minute relocations or tight move-in windows.
• Freight shipping: Have something large and heavy that can be crated? Freight is often the most affordable option, with professional loading and equipment to handle bulkier items.

uShip makes it easy to compare these services side-by-side, so you can choose based on your timeline, budget, and furniture type.

Before booking a carrier, be sure to:

• Measure your item: Record the width, height, depth, and weight to help carriers give you the most accurate quote possible.
• Compare your options: uShip's platform lets you view multiple quotes from rated carriers so you can make an informed decision based on price, service level, and customer reviews.

Taking a few minutes to prep your item can go a long way in preventing issues later:

• Clean and document:
  Wipe down your furniture and take photos of its condition before shipment.
• Disassemble if needed:
  Remove legs, cushions, drawers, or glass panels to make transport safer and easier.
• Protect and secure:
  Wrap and pad your furniture, especially corners and surfaces that scratch easily.

Once your item is on the road:

• Track in real time: Most uShip carriers offer real-time tracking or direct communication for delivery updates.
• Inspect upon arrival: Compare your furniture's condition to the photos you took before shipment and report any issues right away.
• Leave feedback: Your review helps other customers find trusted carriers—and it helps carriers improve their services.

uShip takes the guesswork out of single-item shipping. Our platform connects you with trusted, top-rated carriers who offer services like blanket wrapping, first-to-final mile delivery, and real-time tracking—all at competitive rates. Plus, you can compare quotes in one place and choose the option that works best for your budget and schedule.

Whether you're sending a dresser across the state or a sofa across the country, uShip makes it easier than ever to ship a single piece of furniture with confidence.