Shipping a bowling ball is possible through services like USPS, UPS and Fedex with varying prices and requirements. Depending on your specific circumstances, this guide will help you find the mail service that is for you.
There is a common misconception that shipping large or heavy objects will not be feasible, but that is not the case at all! There are plenty of options for shipping bowling balls and the only challenge will be figuring out which method works best for you.
The information below will allow you to compare different services in the United States for shipping based on bowling ball weight, container size, location, and price.
Taking Measurements
Before looking into your shipping options, you need to know the size of the bowling ball you are attempting to ship. The weight of bowling balls not only influences the way you play but will also impact how much your shipping method costs. Bowling balls are typically about 8.5 inches in diameter and range in weight from 6-16 pounds.
If you have your own box or shipping container already prepared, that needs to be recorded as well. For most bowling balls you will need to use a box with a 9” height, 9” width, and 9” length. But if you have additional packing materials that need to be included, look for the next standard size box at 12” on all sides.
Your shipping options and their price may be affected by the type of container you use. Whenever possible, it is advised to purchase a recommended shipping container with the service you will be using, but there are ways to work around this.
Locations
For every shipping option listed below, your cost and delivery window may change based on your location and where you are attempting to ship to. Having this information ready when looking into these options will help to prevent shipping issues and unexpected fees.
If you are shipping a bowling ball as a business and the cost is being covered by a customer, having clear communication is key. Give them a choice between options so they can stay within their budget.
USPS Shipping
There are several different options you can chose through the United States Postal Service. Keep in mind, however, that this option is probably not best for international shipping. Read through the different services below to figure out which is best for you.
Parcel Select Ground
If your bowling ball is on the lighter side and only weighs between 6-8 lbs. this will be your best option. Parcel Select Ground accepts weights up to 70 lbs., but as the size of your package increases so does your price tag.
If your bowling ball weighs under 8 pounds, you can get it shipped for as little as $8.06 through this option. The only downside is that the estimated arrival date can be a bit delayed when compared to other methods. USPS promises a 2-to-8-day delivery window.
Priority Mail Cubic
This service is the preferred method for bowling balls between 8-19 pounds. It is cost effective at a flat rate of $9.08 for any weight, however you need to make sure that your shipping container is under .5 cubic feet. This will require a cubic box measuring 9” on all sides.
The Priority Mail Cubic option will deliver your bowling ball within 1-3 days. This service is typically reserved for commercial businesses, but you can still take advantage of this option by going through free third party shipping sites like PirateShip or Shippo.
Priority Mail Express
If cost is not an issue and you need your bowling ball to be delivered fast, try Priority Mail Express. You may end of paying upwards of $47.75 but if speed is required this will be your best option. This service will get your bowling ball delivered in 1-2 days.
Bowling Ball Shipper
Alternatively, you can utilize the reliability of USPS shipping but go through a third party for a flat rate shipping quote. Bowling Ball Shipper is an online retailer that will simplify the process of getting your bowling balls in the mail. They accept all bowling balls and other items measured under 9’ x 9’ x 9’ and weighing below 19 lbs.
If you do not have the time or energy to spend on shipment procedures, you can pay $20 to this service, and they will get it sorted for you. Payment is collected through PayPal which provides a good level of protection for your purchase.
UPS Shipping
UPS Shipping rates and time estimates are specific to your unique situation, so it is hard to find a definite answer on price and shipping time without knowing that information. For the most part, you will end up paying more than USPS charges.
Even if you’re shipping locally and have a very light bowling ball at 6 lbs., you will end up paying at least $11.37 for Ground shipping and your recipient will be waiting 1-5 days for their package.
On the other end of the spectrum, if you are shipping a very heavy bowling ball (closer to 16 lbs.) across the country, you are looking at a cost of $44.35 with the same 1–5-day promise.
FedEx Shipping
With FedEx you have much more control over the date and time your bowling ball will be delivered. Their online quote calculator gives you arrival dates as soon as next day at 8:00 AM, but of course it does not come cheap.
You will be charged at least $11 for ground shipping, and the prices can exceed $80. If you are really concerned about the shipping deadline but have a larger budget, FedEx may be right for you.
Final Thoughts
All the shipping options listed above have their own benefits. You really must understand what your priorities area, whether you want items shipped quickly or cheaply, before making a decision. Also keep in mind the requirements of each carrier, as you might not meet their specifications for shipment.
In most cases, USPS will be the best option when shipping within the United States. You will find that most of their options have a very reasonable cost and will get your items shipped within one week.
If you are more focused on getting your items shipped as fast as possible, FedEx will be the right choice for you. Just keep in mind that you will be paying extra for their speedy delivery services.