How to ship and package luggage

Responsible packaging can save you money and improve the safety and handling of your luggage.
Follow these guidelines for your shipment.

Responsible packaging can save you money and improve the safety and handling of your luggage. Follow these guidelines for your shipment.

Steps for how to ship luggage

When shipping luggage or other fragile or unique items, we can handle all the packing for you to help provide protection and peace of mind. Follow these steps to get your shipment ready to take to a FedEx Office location. 

1. Inspect luggage

Inspect your luggage to ensure that it is in good shape and meets safety standards. Do not pack items considered Dangerous Goods even though they are "normal" travel items (e.g., hairspray can, cigarette lighters, nail polish, etc.). We cannot ship any package, including luggage, that contains Dangerous Goods. For help identifying Dangerous Goods, visit our Service Guide and click on the Identifying Dangerous Goods section.

Quick Checklist

  • Check bag condition (zippers, wheels, handles).
  • Remove prohibited items
    • Cigarette lighters or matches
    • Nail polish remover
    • Lithium or spare batteries
    • Other dangerous goods

2. Attach shipping information

Shipping labels and any additional documents must be secured to the luggage using a tie-on tag. If you don't have a tie-on tag, ask one of our team members for one.   

*FedEx does not accept liability for damage to any type of luggage during transit.

3a. Pack and ship at a FedEx Office location

Create a shipment at your local FedEx Office with your shipping information and a payment method. Pricing includes the right FedEx box solution, cushioning materials, and expert packing service backed by the FedEx Office Packing Pledge. We’ll take it from there.

Quick checklist:

  • Bring luggage and payment method
  • FedEx Office provides:
    • Box solution
    • Cushioning materials
    • Professional packing (Packing Pledge)
Find A FedEx Office Location

3b. Or pack and ship without visiting a FedEx Office location

Obtain a box for your shipment. Fill the bottom of the box with packing material such as loosefill peanuts, bubble wrap, or air-cellular cushion. Center the shipment inside the box and fill any empty spaces on all sides.

Using the H taping method, apply pressure-sensitive adhesive plastic tape to both the top and bottom of the carton to protect the package and its contents. Tape all seams or flaps.

Quick checklist:

  • Choose a sturdy box with 2-3 inches cushioning space.
  • Add cushioning (bubble wrap, peanuts, air pillows).
  • Center the luggage and fill empty spaces.
  • Seal with H taping method (across seems and flaps). See image below.

 

*Image is not a representation of the box size that should be used to package this item. 

NOTICE: This packaging brochure is provided to FedEx customers to help reduce loss or damage due to improper packaging. It is NOT intended to be a comprehensive guide for packaging items we accept for transit. We make no warranties, expressed or implied, regarding this information. Proper packaging is the sole responsibility of the shipper. Refer to the current FedEx Service Guide for terms, conditions, and limitations applicable to FedEx® delivery services.

Understanding shipping costs for luggage

Shipping costs depend on your package size, weight, and delivery time. You’ll be charged for whichever is greater — the actual weight or the dimensional (DIM) weight, which measures how much space your box takes up. To find DIM weight, multiply length × width × height (in inches) and divide by 139.

Use a box that fits your luggage closely to avoid paying for extra space. Enter accurate weight and measurements when creating your label to prevent price adjustments later.

Choose a delivery option that matches your schedule and budget. You can drop off your shipment at a nearby FedEx location or other participating retail location, or schedule a pickup.

Quick tips:

  • Charges use the higher of actual or DIM weight.
  • Use a snug box to help reduce costs.
  • Enter exact measurements for accurate pricing.
  • Pick the delivery option that best fits your needs.

Shipping luggage internationally

Before sending luggage overseas, check what’s allowed and what paperwork you’ll need. Customs rules differ by country and territory, and missing details can cause delays.

List your items clearly on a customs declaration form with their value: for example, “3 shirts, 2 pairs of shoes” instead of “clothes.” Avoid restricted items like food, alcohol, or batteries, and review import rules for your destination.

Attach customs documents securely to the outside of your box and keep a copy inside. Ship a few days early to allow extra time for customs clearance.

Quick tips:

  • Complete a customs form with details about the item and its contents, including value.
  • Avoid restricted items (food, alcohol, batteries, etc.) and dangerous goods.
  • Use clear, specific item descriptions.
  • Attach forms outside and keep a copy inside.
  • Ship early to allow for customs processing.

FAQs about luggage shipping

Can I ship my luggage with FedEx?

Yes. You can ship luggage, suitcases, or travel bags through FedEx by packing them in a sturdy box or having them packed at a FedEx location.

What items can’t I ship in my luggage?

Do not ship hazardous or restricted items such as aerosols, nail polish, lighters, or lithium batteries. Review the Dangerous Goods section in the FedEx Service Guide before shipping.

How much does it cost?

Costs depend on size, weight, distance, and delivery speed. Charges are based on the greater of actual or dimensional (DIM) weight. Use a snug box to avoid paying for unused space.

How early should I ship before traveling?

For domestic shipments, send your luggage 2–3 business days before your trip. For international shipments, allow 5–7 business days for customs and delivery.

Can I ship luggage internationally?

Yes. You’ll need a customs declaration form listing the contents and approximate value. Avoid restricted items like food, alcohol, and batteries, and ship early to allow for customs clearance.

How to Ship Luggage: Step-by-Step Video Guide

Learn how to prepare and ship your luggage safely and efficiently.
This short video walks you through each step — from inspecting your bag and removing restricted items and dangerous goods, to packing it securely and attaching your shipping label.

You’ll see how to:

  • Choose the right box and cushioning materials
  • Apply the H taping method for strong sealing
  • Complete your shipment online or at a FedEx location