How Do I Ship a Mattress? A Practical Step‑by‑Step Guide

If you’re asking “How Do I Ship a Mattress?”, you’re likely moving, selling, or sending a bed to someone else and want to do it safely, affordably, and without damaging the mattress. This guide walks through the process in clear steps, answers common questions, and highlights what to consider before you ship.

What Does It Actually Mean to “Ship” a Mattress?

Shipping a mattress means sending it through a carrier or moving service rather than moving it yourself in a personal vehicle. This usually involves:

  • Packing and protecting the mattress
  • Arranging transport with a shipping or moving company
  • Labeling and tracking the shipment

Because mattresses are large, flexible, and sometimes heavy, improper shipping can bend, tear, or permanently deform them. That’s why understanding How Do I Ship a Mattress correctly matters.

How Do I Ship a Mattress Step by Step?

1. Decide if the Mattress Is Worth Shipping

Before anything else, ask:

  • Is the mattress in good condition (no sagging, stains, or odors)?
  • Will shipping cost more than replacing it at your destination?
  • Will it fit in the new space or bed frame?

If the mattress is older or already uncomfortable, shipping may not be practical. If it’s newer or a specialty size, shipping can make more sense.

2. Measure and Weigh the Mattress

To get an accurate quote, you’ll need the approximate size and weight:

  • Size (Twin, Full, Queen, King, etc.)
  • Thickness (height) in inches
  • Estimated weight (often based on typical mattresses of that size and type)

Carriers usually ask for length, width, height, and weight to determine cost.

3. Choose How You Want to Ship

Common options include:

  • Freight or shipping carrier – Often used for long distances or cross-country moves.
  • Moving company – May bundle the mattress with other household items.
  • Local delivery or courier – For short distances within the same city or region.

When asking How Do I Ship a Mattress, many people compare:

  • Cost
  • Transit time
  • Whether they need to move other furniture at the same time

How Do I Protect the Mattress During Shipping?

Use the Right Packing Materials

Proper protection helps avoid dirt, moisture, and tears. Helpful supplies include:

  • Mattress bag or mattress box
  • Packing tape
  • Plastic wrap or stretch wrap (optional, for extra protection)
  • Cardboard sheets or corner protectors for added stability

📝 Simple Packing Checklist

  • Clean and fully dry the mattress
  • Cover with a fitted mattress bag
  • Seal all open edges with tape
  • Add a box or extra cardboard if required by the shipper

Can I Roll or Fold My Mattress?

This depends on the type of mattress:

  • Foam or hybrid mattresses: Some can be compressed, rolled, or boxed for shipping, similar to how they arrive when new. This is sometimes called “bed-in-a-box” style packing.
  • Innerspring mattresses: Generally should not be folded sharply, as the coils and structure can bend or break.

Always check any manufacturer guidance you still have. When in doubt, keep the mattress as flat as possible and avoid tight folds.

How Do I Label and Prepare the Shipment?

Once the mattress is packed:

  • Write or attach clear labels with the destination address
  • Include your return address
  • Add a visible “Fragile” or “Do Not Bend” note, if the carrier allows

Some carriers provide a shipping label you print and attach. Others may handle labeling when they pick up the mattress.

What Does It Usually Cost to Ship a Mattress?

Costs vary based on:

  • Size and weight
  • Distance (local vs. cross-country)
  • Service type (standard, expedited, or white-glove style delivery)

Larger sizes like Queen or King typically cost more than Twin or Full. For many people, it’s common to compare the shipping quote to the cost of a new mattress before deciding.

Common Questions About How Do I Ship a Mattress

How long does mattress shipping usually take?

Timing depends on:

  • Carrier and service level
  • Distance and route
  • Weather or seasonal volume

It may take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks for long-distance shipments.

Is shipping a mattress safe for the mattress itself?

When properly bagged, padded, and handled, most mattresses travel without significant damage. Risks increase if:

  • The mattress is bent, folded too tightly, or stacked under heavy items
  • It is uncovered, allowing dirt, moisture, or tearing

Good protection and clear handling instructions help reduce these issues.

Do I need insurance for the shipment?

Some carriers offer coverage or declared value protection. Many people consider it for higher-priced or specialty mattresses, especially over long distances.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about “How Do I Ship a Mattress”

  • Evaluate first: Make sure the mattress is in good shape and worth the cost of shipping.
  • Measure and weigh: Accurate size and weight are essential for realistic shipping quotes.
  • Protect well: Use a mattress bag, tape, and optional boxing to guard against dirt and damage.
  • Avoid tight folds: Foam may be rolled; innerspring mattresses usually should stay flat.
  • Label clearly: Include both destination and return addresses, plus handling notes if allowed.
  • Compare options: Consider freight carriers, moving companies, and local delivery services.
  • Balance cost vs. value: If shipping approaches the price of a new mattress, reconsider whether to send it.

Understanding How Do I Ship a Mattress comes down to careful packing, choosing the right shipping method, and weighing the costs against the mattress’s condition and value. With thoughtful preparation, you can move your mattress safely and arrive ready for a familiar night’s sleep in your new space.