The Cheapest Way to Ship a TV in 2026

Flat-screen TVs are one of the most challenging items to ship. They're large, fragile, and heavy — a combination that drives up shipping costs. But with the right packaging and carrier choice, you can ship a TV safely without breaking the bank.

TV Shipping Costs by Size

FedEx/UPS costs include DIM weight pricing and additional handling surcharges.

Important: Carrier Restrictions

Before choosing a shipping method, know the limitations:

USPS: Max 130" combined (length + girth). TVs 50"+ usually exceed this. Not recommended for TVs larger than 40".

FedEx/UPS: Max 150 lbs, 108" on longest side, 165" length + girth. Works for most TVs up to 75".

Freight (LTL): No practical size limit. Required for TVs over 80" or multiple TVs.

Best Methods by TV Size

Small TVs (32"-43"): FedEx or UPS Ground

Small TVs are light enough and compact enough to ship affordably through standard carriers.

Best option: FedEx Home Delivery or UPS Ground Cost: $50-$110 Transit time: 2-5 business days

Compare FedEx and UPS rates instantly at atoship to find the cheapest option for your specific route.

Medium TVs (50"-55"): FedEx/UPS or Freight

This is the sweet spot where you should compare parcel and freight options.

Parcel (FedEx/UPS): $80-$150 — faster but more expensive due to DIM weight and surcharges Freight (LTL): $100-$180 — slower but sometimes cheaper, especially for longer distances

Large TVs (65"-75"): Freight Recommended

For TVs 65" and larger, freight carriers often provide better rates and handling.

Why freight is better for large TVs:

• No additional handling surcharges
• Items are palletized (less handling)
• Insurance is typically included
• Terminal-to-terminal option saves money

How to Package a TV for Shipping

TV screens are incredibly fragile. A poorly packed TV has a very high chance of arriving with a cracked screen. Follow these steps carefully:

Option A: Original Box (Best)

If you still have the TV's original box with the Styrofoam inserts:

Place the TV in the original packaging

Tape all seams with heavy-duty packing tape

Consider placing the original box inside a slightly larger box with padding

Add "FRAGILE" and "THIS SIDE UP" labels

Option B: Custom Packaging (No Original Box)

Screen protection: Place a piece of rigid cardboard cut to the exact screen size directly on the screen surface. Tape it in place with painter's tape (not packing tape — it can damage the screen).

Corner protection: Apply foam corner protectors on all 4 corners. These are available at Home Depot or U-Haul for $3-$5.

Wrap the TV: Cover the entire TV in 2 layers of bubble wrap. Secure with tape.

Double-wall box: Use a double-wall corrugated box. Standard boxes aren't strong enough for TVs. The box should be 3-4" larger than the TV on each side.

Bottom padding: Place 3-4" of foam or crumpled paper at the bottom of the box.

Insert the TV: Place the wrapped TV vertically in the box (standing up, just like it would be on a wall). TVs should NEVER be shipped flat — the screen can crack from its own weight during transit.

Fill the gaps: Pack all empty space firmly with foam, bubble wrap, or air pillows. The TV should not shift at all.

Seal and label: Tape all seams, add "FRAGILE," "THIS SIDE UP," and "DO NOT LAY FLAT" labels.

Where to Buy TV Shipping Boxes

Pro tip: Call your local Best Buy or TV dealer and ask if they have any TV boxes they're discarding. Most stores throw out dozens each week and will gladly give you one.

Insurance for TV Shipping

TVs are fragile and expensive — insurance is highly recommended.

For TVs under $300: Carrier-included coverage ($100) plus an extra $5-$8 for full declared value.

For TVs $300-$1,000: Add full declared value coverage ($8-$15 extra).

For TVs over $1,000: Full declared value coverage is essential ($15-$30 extra). Take detailed photos of the TV working and the packaging process.

Important: All carriers require proper packaging for claims. If your TV arrives damaged and the packaging is deemed insufficient, the claim will be denied.

5 Rules for Shipping TVs Safely

Always ship vertically — never lay a TV flat in a box

Protect the screen first — rigid cardboard on the screen surface is essential

Use a double-wall box — standard corrugated boxes aren't strong enough

Don't over-pack — the TV needs to be snug, not compressed

Document everything — photos of the TV working, the packaging process, and the sealed box

FAQ

Can I ship a TV through USPS?

Only for small TVs (40" and under). USPS has a 130" combined length + girth limit, which most medium and large TVs exceed. For larger TVs, FedEx or UPS Ground are better options. Compare rates at atoship.com.

How much does it cost to ship a 65-inch TV?

Expect to pay $100-$200 via FedEx or UPS Ground, or $120-$220 via LTL freight. The exact cost depends on distance and packaging dimensions. Freight is often cheaper for long distances.

Should I ship a TV flat or upright?

Always ship a TV upright (standing on its edge, like it would hang on a wall). Shipping flat puts stress on the center of the screen, which can cause it to crack — especially for larger TVs 50" and above.

What if my TV arrives damaged?

File a claim immediately with the carrier. You'll need: photos of the packaging, photos of the damage, proof of the TV's value (receipt or listing), and the tracking number. Most claims are processed within 5-10 business days.

Is it worth shipping an old TV or should I just buy a new one?

For TVs worth less than $150, shipping often costs more than replacing the TV. For TVs worth $300+, shipping is almost always the better financial decision.