Crate shipping is the process of securely packaging and shipping items in a crate for added protection during transportation. Crate shipping is best for delicate and valuable items, including artwork and electronics. When you have expensive, fragile items and want to move locally, across the country, or even across continents, using the help of a reputable and experienced crate shipping service is crucial.
How To Choose The Best Crate Shipping Service For Your Move
When moving, here are 8 tips that can help you choose the best crate shipping service for your needs:
1. Review their crate building and packaging process
Make sure the crate shipping company has a thorough crate building and packaging process in place, including custom crate construction and appropriate packing materials.
2. Check their insurance coverage
It’s important to make sure that the crate shipping company’s insurance coverage will cover any potential damage to your items during the shipping process.
3. Ask about their experience and specialization
Experienced crate shipping companies have expertise in different industries and can handle specific crate packaging needs, such as crate shipping for art or electronics.
4. Inquire about tracking and communication options
Ensure that the crate shipping company offers tracking options for your crate and clear communication throughout the crate shipping process.
5. Read customer reviews
Reading customer reviews can provide insight into their level of professionalism, dependability, and quality of service.
6. Compare quotes from multiple crate shipping companies
Getting quotes from multiple crate shipping companies allows you to compare and choose the best option for your budget.
7. Confirm crate pickup and delivery options
Make sure the crate shipping company offers convenient crate pickup and delivery options that work with your schedule and location.
8. Verify their accreditations and certifications
Look for crate shipping companies with professional accreditations and certifications, such as being a member of the International Association of Movers.
The 5 Best Experts In Crate Shipping
Now, let’s take a look at the top 5 professional experts in crate shipping companies that offer local, cross-country, and global small moves services.
1. Ship Smart
This company is headquartered in San Francisco and has over 20 years of experience in crate shipping, offering crate building and packing services as well as local, national, and international shipping options. Their crate shipping services include industry-specific crate packaging for art, antiques, electronics, and medical equipment. Ship Smart is a ProMover member of the American Moving & Storage Association and certified by the International Association of Movers.
2. Craters and Freighters
With over 25 locations nationwide, Craters and Freighters offer crate shipping services for both residential and commercial moves. Their crate packaging process includes custom crate building, packing materials, and insurance coverage up to $100,000 per crate. They specialize in a variety of industries, including medical and laboratory equipment, aerospace and aviation, fine art and antiques, and electronics. Craters and Freighters also offer crate rental options.
3. Pak Mail
This crate shipping company has over 250 locations across the United States, offering crate-building services as well as local, national, and international shipping options via air, land, and sea. Their crate packaging process includes custom crate construction and packing materials to ensure the safety of your items during shipping. Pak Mail is a certified ProMover member of the American Moving & Storage Association and an agent for Allied Van Lines.
4. Advantage Crate Express
This crate shipping company offers nationwide crate shipping services with pickup options in California, Texas, and Florida. Their crate packaging process includes building custom wooden crates and using appropriate packing materials for the items being shipped. Advantage Crate Express also offers crate rental options for one-time moves.
5. Ace Relocation Systems
With over 40 years of experience in crate shipping, this company offers crate building and packaging services as well as local, national, and international shipping options. Their crate packaging process includes an analysis of the items being shipped to determine the best crate materials and packing methods. Ace Relocation Systems is a ProMover member of the American Moving & Storage Association and an agent for Allied Van Lines. They also offer crate rental options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are 3 common questions about crate shipping:
1. How much does crate shipping cost?
The cost of crate shipping depends on factors such as the size and weight of the crate, the distance of shipment, and any additional services (such as crate building or packing). It is best to get quotes from multiple crate shipping companies to compare prices and choose the best option for your needs.
2. How long does crate shipping take?
The length of crate shipping can vary depending on the distance of shipment and the chosen shipping method. It is best to discuss estimated timeframes with the crate shipping company before making a decision.
3. Are crate shipping services insured?
Many crate shipping companies offer insurance coverage for damage or loss during shipment. It is important to discuss insurance options with the crate shipping company before making a decision.
Wrap Up
Overall, it is important to do research and compare crate shipping companies to find the best option for your needs in terms of price, services offered, and insurance coverage. Consider discussing estimated timeframes and insurance options before making a decision. By working with a top company such as Ship Smart, you can ensure that your crate shipping needs will be taken care of efficiently and safely.
