How to Ship a Mattress

Shipping a mattress is more complicated than shipping a letter or small gift. Plus, it usually costs a few hundred dollars to get your mattress from point A to point B. If your mattress is too old, it may not be worth it to ship it across the country.

For those interested in shipping their mattresses, we put together this guide to break down the process and other considerations, such as alternatives to shipping your mattress.

Can You Ship a Mattress?

Yes, you can ship a mattress, but whether you should depends on a few key factors.

While shipping is possible, the process can be expensive and time-consuming. Before making a decision, consider the following:

Factors to Consider Before Shipping a Mattress

• Mattress Size & Weight – Larger mattresses (like king-size) are heavier and more expensive to ship. Compact, lightweight mattresses are easier and more cost-effective.
• Shipping Distance – Local or regional shipping is generally affordable, while cross-country shipping can cost hundreds of dollars.
• Shipping Method – Options include freight carriers, parcel shipping (like UPS or FedEx), or professional moving companies. Each varies in cost and convenience.
• Mattress Condition – If your mattress is old, worn out, or sagging, replacing it might be a better investment than shipping it.
• Cost vs. Replacement – The average shipping cost ranges from $250 to $600. If a new mattress costs around the same, buying a new one might make more sense.

Shipping a mattress isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. The best method depends on factors like distance, cost, and convenience. Here are the most effective ways to ship a mattress:

1. Freight Shipping vs. Parcel Shipping

One of the most common ways to ship a mattress is through freight or parcel shipping. Freight shipping is ideal for long-distance moves and heavier mattresses, as carriers specialize in transporting large shipments. They also offer pickup and delivery services, making the process more convenient. 

On the other hand, parcel shipping services like UPS or FedEx work well for smaller, compact mattresses. However, you’ll need to package the mattress properly and drop it off at a shipping center. 

Freight shipping is generally better for oversized or heavy mattresses, while parcel shipping is a more affordable choice for lighter beds.

2. Hiring a Professional Moving Company

If you’re moving an entire household or want a hands-off approach, hiring a professional moving company might be the best option. Moving companies handle the packing and transportation of your mattress, ensuring it arrives safely at your destination. 

This method is particularly useful for those shipping high-value mattresses or multiple large items. However, professional moving services tend to be more expensive than other shipping methods, so it’s important to compare quotes before making a decision.

3. Shipping Through UPS, FedEx, or Other Carriers

For those looking for a cost-effective way to ship a mattress, services like UPS and FedEx offer reliable options. While they do have size and weight restrictions, these carriers provide tracking and faster delivery compared to freight shipping. 

If your mattress is a bed-in-a-box, using one of these services is often the most affordable and convenient choice. Before selecting a carrier, be sure to check size limitations, as some larger mattresses may exceed standard shipping requirements.

How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Mattress?

There’s no set price for shipping a mattress, but services calculate the cost by considering:

• The distance the mattress is traveling
• The mattress’s size and dimensions
• How quickly the mattress needs to arrive (express shipping costs vs. standard)
• The courier service agency that is selected for shipping

Most people can expect to pay at least $300 to ship a mattress.

Don’t forget to factor in the costs of shipping materials like boxes and bubble wrap, along with shipping insurance. You can choose not to purchase shipping insurance, but you may enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your mattress is protected if it’s lost or damaged in transit.

Including additional items such as bed frames, mattress foundations, and other accessories in your shipment will significantly raise the overall shipping cost. These items add extra weight and bulk, which may push your package into a higher pricing tier or incur oversized package fees. Some carriers charge based on dimensional weight, meaning larger items—even if lightweight—can still be expensive to ship. 

To minimize costs, consider shipping these items separately, using compact packaging, or exploring local purchase options at your destination instead of transporting them.

How Do I Calculate Shipping Costs?

No need to break out a calculator because most shipping services do the problem-solving for you. We recommend shopping around for free shipping quotes to make an informed decision. This should be your first step before you start packing up your mattress.

Most shipping services need the following information:

• The pickup location for the mattress.
• The address of the mattress’s destination.
• How much the mattress weighs and its dimensions (length, width, thickness).
• Your desired drop-off and delivery dates. In other words, when you want the mattress picked up and when you want it to arrive.

A delivery service can usually give you an accurate quote online or by phone. Here are a few helpful links for different services:

• UPS’s shipping costs calculator. However, for a mattress, you’ll likely need to inquire about UPS’s freight shipping options.
• FedEx’s shipping costs calculator.
• uShip’s price estimator.
• TSI has a fill-in-the-blank form to receive a free quote.
• Freight Pros’ form for a free quote.

Why is the United States Postal Service not on this list? Because the USPS has a weight limit of 70 pounds and a package size limit of 108 inches for total length and girth (130 inches for USPS Retail Ground®). These limits will keep you from shipping most mattresses with USPS.

If you can, ask how long the quote will remain accurate. You’ll often get a better estimate if you’re flexible about delivery dates and are willing to bring the mattress to a pickup location.

Understanding the weight and size dimensions of your mattress can help you compute the costs. We provide a rough range of mattress weights by size below.

How much your mattress weighs depends on its type and thickness. Memory foam and poly-foam weigh less than hybrid and latex mattresses. Naturally, a thicker mattress has more materials and weighs more than a thinner mattress.

For a more accurate weight number, reach out to the mattress manufacturer’s customer service. The manufacturer’s website may also list it on their product or in the FAQ section. If you have the mattress’s original packing slip, it may mention the product’s weight.

Should I Ship My Mattress?

Is it worth it to ship your mattress, or would you be better off buying a new mattress? Only you can answer this question, but here are a few more questions to consider to help you find the right answer:

• How old is your mattress, and what shape is it in? In other words, how much longer is this mattress likely to last? Many beds are ready to be replaced within 7 to 10 years of use, so if your bed is 5 or more years old, you might want to skip shipping it.
• What did you pay for your mattress? If you only spent a few hundred dollars on a budget mattress, it’s probably not worth it to spend a few more hundred dollars to ship it. However, if you spent between $1000 to $3000 on your mattress, shipping it provides greater value.
• Are you still getting a good night’s sleep on your mattress? If you’re waking up tired or sore, it’s probably time to replace your mattress.

When you’re comparing shipping costs, you may want to take a few moments and browse the wide selection of online mattresses. Not only is there a mattress available for everyone, but most companies will ship the mattress for free to anywhere in the continental U.S.

Steps for Shipping a Mattress

We’ve distilled the process of shipping a mattress into four steps.

1. Have Your Shipping Quotes Ready

As we mentioned earlier, the first step is to get shipping quotes and decide what service you will be using. After all, does it make sense to box up your mattress and only then shop around for a service to ship it?

As a pro trip, some delivery services offer white glove delivery, where they will come inside your home and pack the mattress for you before taking it away. Naturally, this increases your shipping costs. However, white glove delivery may be worth the cost if you have difficulty moving and carrying your mattress.

Do consider the shipping distance and the size of your mattress, as these factors can significantly influence the cost. Also, check if the shipping service offers any discounts or promotions for large items like mattresses.

Before finalizing a shipping service, compare multiple quotes to get the best deal. Some companies provide online estimators, while others require you to call for pricing. Be sure to provide accurate details, including the mattress’s dimensions, weight, and destination. 

If your move is flexible, choosing an off-peak shipping date might lower the cost. Also, check if the service offers tracking, insurance, or discounts for oversized shipments

2. Prepare Your Mattress for Shipping

The next step is to clear all items off your bed. Pack away your blankets, sheets, pillows, comforter, and box spring. However, if you have a mattress encasement, go ahead and leave it on your mattress for protection. Disassemble your bed frame as well if you plan on packing and shipping it.

Before you start packing, ensure the mattress is completely clean and dry to avoid mold or mildew growth during transit. Wipe down the mattress with a mild cleaning solution if necessary, and let it air dry completely. If your mattress has a protective cover or mattress pad, it’s best to leave it on as an additional layer of protection.

Also, check the mattress for any loose springs, tears, or defects that could worsen during shipping. If there are any issues, consider repairing them before packing.

Vacuum the mattress surface to remove dust and allergens before wrapping it. If possible, take a quick photo of the mattress condition before packing—this can be useful for insurance claims in case of damage. If your mattress is particularly delicate (such as a pillow-top or latex mattress), consider using extra layers of padding to protect it during transit.

3. Pack Your Mattress

If your mattress isn’t in a protective encasement, you can improvise with bubble wrap or shrink wrap. Once it’s covered, you can slip it inside a large cardboard box.

Alternatively, you can compress your mattress at home to slip it inside a smaller box. We recommend compressing the mattress first, then measuring its dimensions to buy the correct box.

Fill any open spaces in the box with packing foam, then seal the box with strong tape. Double-check that all flaps and corners are secured before proceeding to the next step.

To start, carefully wrap your mattress in a layer of thick plastic or mattress bag. This helps shield it from dirt, moisture, and potential damage during transit. For added protection, use bubble wrap around the mattress, focusing on the corners and edges. You can also use shrink wrap to tightly compress the mattress for a more compact form.

If you’re opting for a smaller box, be sure to compress the mattress as much as possible to reduce its volume, but avoid compressing it too much to cause damage. 

When placing the mattress in the box, add extra packing materials like foam or packing peanuts around the edges to prevent movement during transit. If your mattress is particularly large or delicate, consider reinforcing the box with extra layers of cardboard or using a heavy-duty box designed for larger items.

4. Coordinate the Pick Up

Will the shipping service pick the mattress up from your home, or will you be bringing it to a drop-off location?

If it’s being picked up, make sure you’re available at home at the scheduled time and that the package is ready. If you’re dropping it off at a specific location, make sure you’re careful when moving the box from your home to your vehicle.

After the mattress has been taken away, it’s important to follow up with the delivery company to ensure the mattress has been transferred to them. You may also be able to track the package’s status while it’s en-route with its order number.

Confirm the shipping company’s delivery windows, especially if your mattress is being sent internationally or across long distances. Some carriers may offer real-time tracking so you can monitor your mattress’s journey. It’s also important to check if there are any additional steps required upon delivery, such as a signature upon arrival or specific delivery instructions.

Once your mattress is in transit, use tracking tools to monitor its location and estimated arrival time. Some carriers allow you to set delivery alerts via text or email. 

If your mattress requires a signature upon delivery, ensure someone is available at the destination address to receive it. In case of unexpected delays, stay in touch with the carrier’s customer service to resolve any issues quickly.

5. Label and Insure Your Shipment

Before handing over your mattress to the shipping company, make sure it’s properly labeled. Attach a clear, legible shipping label with the recipient’s name, address, and contact number. Double-check that all details match the carrier’s records to avoid delivery issues.

If you’re using a freight service, you may need to include a bill of lading (BOL), which acts as a receipt and contract for the shipment. Ask your carrier if this is required.

For added security, consider placing a second copy of the label inside the box in case the outer one gets damaged during transit. If your mattress is valuable, purchasing shipping insurance is a smart move. 

Insurance protects against damage, loss, or mishandling, and it’s often available at a low cost through most carriers. Some companies also offer additional protection services, such as signature confirmation upon delivery.

There is typically a cost associated with shipping insurance. The price depends on several factors, including the value of the mattress, the shipping carrier, and the level of coverage you select. Here’s how you can calculate the cost of shipping insurance:

a. Value of the Mattress

The insurance cost is often based on the value of the item you’re shipping. For example, most carriers charge a percentage (usually between 1-2%) of the declared value of the mattress.

Formula:

• Insurance Cost = Declared Value of Mattress × Insurance Rate
• Example: If your mattress is worth $800 and the insurance rate is 1.5%, the cost would be:
  $800 × 0.015 = $12.

b. Type of Insurance Coverage

Different carriers offer varying levels of coverage:

• Basic Coverage: Often included at no extra cost, but it only covers a small percentage of the value (like $100 or $200).
• Full Coverage: This typically covers the full value of your mattress, and you pay a premium for the additional protection.

c. Shipping Carrier

Each carrier (UPS, FedEx, USPS, freight services, etc.) has its own pricing structure for insurance. Be sure to check their specific rates and policies when calculating costs.

d. Additional Services

Some carriers offer add-ons like:

• Signature Confirmation: Costs an additional fee but ensures that the mattress is delivered to the right person.
• Declared Value Protection: Some carriers may offer this as a separate service for high-value items.

Tips:

• Always check with your carrier about their specific insurance rates and whether any discounts or promotions are available.
• It’s also wise to evaluate if your mattress is covered under your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance for shipping purposes, as this can sometimes save you money on shipping insurance.

Other Things to Consider

Assess Shipping Costs vs. Mattress Value: Shipping a mattress can be expensive, sometimes approaching or exceeding the mattress’s original cost. For instance, shipping fees for larger mattresses, like a California king, can be substantial. 

It’s essential to weigh the shipping expenses against the mattress’s current value to determine if shipping is the most economical choice.

Return Policy Considerations: If you’re a business shipping mattresses to customers, establishing a clear return policy is vital. A well-defined return policy not only sets clear expectations but also enhances customer satisfaction, encouraging repeat business.

Additional Fees to Consider: When shipping a mattress, extra costs can arise based on size, weight, and carrier policies. Here are some potential fees to keep in mind:

• Residential Delivery Fees – Some carriers charge extra for delivering to residential addresses instead of commercial locations.
• Fuel Surcharges – Shipping costs may fluctuate due to fuel price changes, which some carriers pass on to customers.
• Insurance Costs – If you want to protect your mattress from damage or loss, purchasing shipping insurance can add to the total expense.
• Expedited Shipping Fees – Faster shipping options, such as overnight or two-day delivery, significantly increase costs compared to standard ground services.
• Packaging Costs – Investing in durable packing materials like mattress boxes, plastic covers, and reinforced tape ensures safe transport but adds to the overall cost.

I Don’t Want to Ship My Mattress

If you’ve decided shipping your mattress isn’t the solution for you, there are other possibilities you can consider.

Are you interested in keeping your mattress and just want to avoid the costs and complications of shipping it? Moving trucks and shipping pods allow you to transport multiple items to a new location. Often, these options are more cost-effective than shipping a mattress on its own. Renting a van, truck, or pod lets you move your mattress by yourself.

Not interested in holding onto your mattress? There are many ways to dispose and get rid of an old mattress:

• Charitable organizations like local homeless shelters and Habitat for Humanity may accept a gently used mattress. Furniture Bank is another organization that accepts used furniture, including mattresses.
• You can bring your mattress to a recycling center. Many accept whole mattresses, while others will accept mattress parts.
• If all else fails, you can look for junk removal services in your area to haul away your old mattress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you fold a mattress?

No, it’s not a good idea to fold a mattress for shipping or transportation purposes. Folding a mattress can damage its springs and leave creases in the foam that compromise its feel. If you want to make your foam mattress more compact, you can compress it at home using a vacuum cleaner.

Once the mattress is compressed, simply roll it up and slide it into a box. Rolling places less stress on the materials than folding, which is why mattress in a box brands use this method. For extra protection, encase the rolled-up mattress in a layer of bubble wrap.

What size mattress fits in a truck bed?

It depends on what the truck bed’s dimensions are. A truck bed may be under 6 feet long or 8 feet long, and between 7 to 8 feet wide. Twin, full, and even queen mattresses will probably fit in most truck beds as is. You might be able to squeeze in a king mattress so that it leans against the side of the truck bed, instead of laying the mattress flat.

What are the Tips for mattress transport?

To keep shipping costs manageable and protect your mattress during transit, use a high-quality mattress shipping box and heavy-duty plastic wrapping. Secure it properly to prevent damage and check carrier size and weight limits to avoid oversized package fees. Comparing shipping rates across USPS, FedEx, and UPS will help you determine the cost to ship your mattress while selecting the most cost-effective option.

Any services to ship a mattress?

Several major carriers, including USPS, FedEx, and UPS, offer mattress shipping services with varying costs. USPS Retail Ground is often the cheapest option, while FedEx and UPS provide faster but more expensive alternatives like Next Day Air or Express Saver. If you’re wondering how much it will cost, prices can range from $150 for ground shipping to over $700 for expedited options, depending on distance, weight, and service level.

What are the alternatives to shipping a mattress?

If shipping costs are too high, consider alternative solutions like selling or donating your mattress and purchasing a new one at your destination. Renting a moving truck or using a freight shipping company may also be more economical for transporting multiple items. Since the costs to ship a mattress can sometimes be more than its actual value, weighing the expense against alternatives is essential before making a decision.

What are the best practices for shipping?

When shipping a mattress, the best practices include using strong, protective packaging, such as a mattress bag or box, to prevent damage during transit. Secure the mattress tightly to avoid any shifting inside the packaging, and consider adding cushioning materials like foam or bubble wrap for extra protection. 

Choose a reliable carrier with reasonable pricing based on the weight and size of your mattress—knowing what it costs to ship a mattress will help you select the best option for your needs. Always track the shipment and ensure you’re aware of any extra fees that might apply, like oversized packages or fuel surcharges, to avoid unexpected costs.

Can you strap a mattress to the top of your car?

We don’t recommend tying a mattress to the roof of your car when moving. Not only can this damage your mattress, but it can also damage your car. It’s only feasible if you have a roof rack, and even then, you need to seal your mattress in a mattress bag to protect it from the elements. You also need to make sure you can still see your surroundings clearly.

If your mattress is not properly secured to the roof of your car or it appears to be blocking your front or back views, you may be pulled over by authorities.

How long does a mattress last?

How long a mattress lasts depends on what type of mattress it is:

• Memory foam mattresses tend to last about 7 to 8 years on average, though high-quality ones may last more than 10 years.
• Organic latex mattresses tend to last longer than 10 years, while synthetic ones have lifespans comparable to memory foam mattresses.
• Innerspring mattresses usually last around 5 to 6 years before sagging.
• Hybrid mattresses often last about 7 years.

Do you have a mattress more than 5 years old, and you’re debating if it’s worth the costs of shipping it? You might be better off just buying a new one.

What do I do with a mattress I don’t want?

If you’re moving and you’ve decided it’s not worth the trouble of shipping your mattress, you can look into disposing of it. Mattresses still in usable condition can often be donated to local and nationwide charities. Mattresses unfit for donation can be recycled, repurposed, or sent to a landfill.

Conclusion

Mattress shipping can be simple if you follow our steps and take steps to protect your mattress while it’s en-route. Shipping your mattress is often costly, no matter what delivery method you choose. However, it might be worth the costs if your current mattress is still relatively new and likely to provide years of high-quality sleep.

Of course, after reading our article, you may have decided that shipping your mattress isn’t worth the trouble and money. If you’ve decided to devote your time to finding the best mattress instead, we have numerous guides to make your search easier.