How Do You Ship a Mattress? A Practical Step‑by‑Step FAQ

If you’re asking “How Do You Ship a Mattress”, you’re usually:

  • Moving long distance
  • Sending a mattress to someone else
  • Or storing and transporting it safely

This guide explains how to ship a mattress, what to watch out for, and how to protect it from damage on the way.

How Do You Ship a Mattress in the Safest, Most Practical Way?

The safest way to ship a mattress is to protect it, pack it securely, and choose appropriate transport (courier, freight, or moving service) based on its size and distance.

In simple terms, the process is:

  1. Measure and clean the mattress
  2. Cover and protect it (bag, wrapping, cardboard)
  3. Decide how you’ll ship it (moving truck, freight, or courier)
  4. Label and secure it for transport

Each step reduces the risk of stains, tears, and sagging.

What Should You Do Before Shipping a Mattress?

Measure and check the condition

Before you decide how to ship a mattress, start with a quick assessment:

  • Measure size and thickness (twin, full, queen, king, etc.)
  • Check its condition: any sagging, stains, or broken springs?
  • Decide if it’s worth shipping
    • Shipping a very old or heavily worn mattress may not be practical.

Clean and dry the mattress

A clean, dry mattress is less likely to develop odors or mildew while in transit.

  • Lightly vacuum the surface
  • Let it air out and dry completely
  • Avoid soaking it; excess moisture can cause damage once wrapped

How Do You Protect a Mattress for Shipping?

Use a mattress bag or cover

A heavy-duty plastic mattress bag or fabric cover is one of the most important steps in shipping a mattress. It helps protect against:

  • Dirt and dust
  • Moisture and spills
  • Tears and scuffs

Seal the ends with packing tape for extra protection.

Add padding and structure

For longer trips or rough handling, add:

  • Moving blankets around the bagged mattress
  • Cardboard sheets on each side to prevent bending or punctures
  • Strong packing tape or straps to hold everything in place

Avoid compressing the mattress too tightly unless it’s specifically designed to be compressed.

Can You Roll or Box a Mattress for Shipping?

Compressing and rolling

Some mattresses (especially certain foam types) are designed to be compressed, rolled, and boxed. Others are not.

  • Foam-only mattresses are more likely to handle careful compression
  • Mattresses with springs can be damaged if they are forcefully folded or rolled

If you’re unsure, treat it as non-compressible and ship it flat.

Folding a mattress

Many traditional mattresses should not be folded because it can:

  • Damage coils or internal support systems
  • Lead to permanent creases or lumps

If folding is necessary (for tight doorways or short moves), do it as gently and briefly as possible and only if the mattress is flexible enough.

What Are Your Options for Shipping a Mattress?

How you answer “How Do You Ship a Mattress” depends on distance, budget, and how fast you need it delivered.

1. Local or short-distance moves

For short distances, common options include:

  • Personal vehicle (pickup or van)
  • Rented moving truck
  • Local moving service

Keep the mattress on its side or flat, and strap it securely to keep it from sliding or bending.

2. Long-distance or cross-country

For longer distances where you can’t move it yourself, people often choose:

  • Freight or shipping companies (you provide packaging)
  • Moving companies offering full-service transport

In these cases, good packing (bag, padding, stable shape) becomes even more important.

How Much Does It Typically Cost to Ship a Mattress?

Exact costs vary, but the main factors are:

  • Size and weight – Larger, heavier mattresses cost more
  • Distance – Longer trips are more expensive
  • Service level – Basic curbside freight is usually cheaper than full-service moving

Because mattresses are bulky, shipping can sometimes rival or exceed the value of an older mattress, which is why some people choose not to ship very old beds.

How Do You Label and Handle a Mattress During Shipping?

To reduce risk of mishandling:

  • Label both sides with “This Side Up” or “Do Not Bend” as needed
  • Attach a name and delivery address clearly
  • Avoid stacking heavy items on top of the mattress
  • Keep it away from sharp edges that could puncture the bag or fabric

Handle the mattress with two people when possible to avoid dragging and tearing.

Is It Always Worth Shipping a Mattress?

Not always. Consider:

  • Age: Older, sagging, or uncomfortable mattresses may not be worth the cost
  • Condition: Deep body impressions, broken coils, or strong odors are signs it may be better to replace
  • Distance and cost: For very long distances, some people find it more practical to keep only the frame and buy a new mattress at their destination

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

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

  • Preparation matters: Measure, inspect, and clean your mattress before you ship it.
  • Protection is essential: Use a mattress bag, padding, and sturdy tape to guard against dirt, moisture, and damage.
  • Not every mattress can be rolled or folded: Compress only if the mattress type allows it; avoid bending models with delicate support systems.
  • Choose shipping based on distance: Use personal vehicles or local movers for short moves; consider freight or moving services for long distances.
  • Cost vs. condition: Weigh shipping costs against the age and comfort of your current mattress before deciding to send it.
  • Careful handling reduces damage: Keep the mattress upright or flat, label it clearly, and avoid stacking heavy items on top.

By understanding how do you ship a mattress from preparation through delivery, you can protect your bed, reduce stress during a move, and arrive with a mattress that’s still comfortable and ready for use.