Shipping shoes is a central component of the buy-and-sell operations in the shoe business.
But calculating and minimizing shipping costs can be a challenge.
There are various shipping options for footwear, and understanding these options can simplify the process for you.
So, in this article, we’re going to show you the important aspects of shoe shipping. Such as maximum weight, shipping couriers, express delivery, estimated costs, using your own box, domestic delivery, and courier services. Let’s look at these factors to help you understand how much it’ll cost you to ship shoes.
All Sort of Reason People Ship Shoes
- Individuals who are moving and need to ship your shoe collection to a new home, or perhaps to college. In this case, you’ll typically be working with larger quantities of shoes packed into large boxes or multiple smaller boxes.
- Individuals who sell shoes online and are shipping them to a buyer, or to a friend or loved one in another state or across the country.
- Retailers shipping shoes to buyers across the country, typically single items or smaller shipments packed into envelopes or small boxes.
- Retailers shipping large quantities of shoes to distribution centers or other locations in their network.
The Cheapest Way: How Much Does Shipping Shoes Cost?
Sending shoes can vary in price depending on the shipping method, distance, and fragile shoe size in the package. Shipping rates will vary based on the carrier you decide to use. Shipping calculators supplied by leading carriers such as UPS, FedEx and USPS will assist you figure out how much it costs to ship footwear. To get an approximate cost you will need to input the weight and size of the package, the destination, and the method of shipping. For example, a single pair of shoes will likely set you back $7-$10 via USPS Priority Mail within the United States in a small flat-rate box, and $20-$40 or more for the exact same pair of shoes to international destinations, depending on weight and where the package is headed to. You should always compare rates among various shipping carriers and its methods to get the best option developed for your shipping needs.
Factors Influencing Shipping Costs
Shoes’ Weight & Dimensions
Shoes, in general, are most affected by their weight and dimensions when shipping. The weight, as well as the height, length, and width of the shoes, are critical. Shoes with higher dimensional weights also tend to be more expensive to ship.
Distance
Less obvious is the fact that the farther you need to ship your shoes, the higher the cost. In the other hand, when shipping internationally, some countries impose their own additional costs due to shipping regulations. For a more accurate estimate, use an online cost estimator or talk to an expert from your chosen courier service.
The Courier Companies
You might have different courier choices depending on the country or state you ship to. You must research and see which one offers you the best rates. In the US, the two main candidates are FedEx and UPS.
The Shipping Quantity
The more items you ship, the higher the cost of shipping will be. Nevertheless, some courier services provide discounted rates for bulk delivery services. Before you finalize your shipment, it’s a good idea to check with the courier to see if they provide this option. Moreover, third-party shipping companies might also help lower your costs by offering flat-rate boxes.
Taxes
Taxes (customs duty or VAT, for instance) may be incurred when shipping internationally. Although you may not have to pay sales tax, it is smart to see what taxes are applicable by going to the government’s websites. Alternatively, your courier may provide this information.
USPS or Post Office
For shipping one pair of shoes, USPS could be the cheapest option. The service also includes a wide range of shipping options such as priority mail, first-class mail, USPS priority mail express, and retail ground at flat rates. First-class mail costs just $4, making it a low-cost option for shipping shoes. If USPS is not available, you might want to use the post office. The general footwear shipping by USPS ranges from $8 to $12.
Parcel Service (UPS or FedEx)
Parcel shipping services like FedEx and UPS also offer flat-rate options, as well as UPS ground service. These services provide fixed shipping rates for shoes and enable you to select delivery timeframes, and making you sure that your shoes get there when they’re supposed to, even if they’re traveling long distances.
The Trend of Wearing Shoes Is Becoming Popular
The trend of wearing smart shoes has evolved quickly, accompanied by style and self-expression. Sneaker culture, tied to limited-edition releases and collaborations, has contributed significantly. Sustainability is taking more of a role in the industry as consumers demand eco-friendly and ethical brands. Now footwear is also a manifestation of our values.
Based on the statistics related to footwear trends and its noticeable factor, following are some of the key ones:
Worldwide Footwear Market: Valued at $365.5 billion in 2020; Expected to reach USD 530.3 billion by 2027; Growth at a rate of 5.5% Conclusion.
Sneaker Market: $70 billion in 2020, 7.2% CAGR until 2025 The sneaker resale market is projected to reach $30 billion by 2030.
Sustainable Footwear: 66% of global consumers will pay more for sustainable products — Sustainable Footwear market is expected to be worth USD 257 billion in 2028, growing at a CAGR of 5.8% from 2021 to 2028.
Customization & Self-Expression: Customization services experienced a 20% annual increase and 53% of Gen Z consumers perceive a responsibility for brands towards sustainability.
Athleisure: The athleisure market (including casual footwear) was worth $155.2 billion in 2018 and is estimated to grow to $257.1 billion by 2026, at a CAGR of 6.7%.
Comparing Shipping Carriers and Services
USPS Shoe Shipping Rates
USPS provides a good selection of shipping options for shoes based on the size and weight of the package and the speed at which you wish to ship. Here’s a quick rundown of your options:
First-Class Mail: This is a cheap option ideal for lightweight shoe packages up to 13 ounces — starting from $3.80. This is a great option for shipping single pairs in bubble mailers, as they are cost effective and work quickly.
Priority Mail Flat Rate: For those heavy packages or multiple pairs of shoes, Priority Mail Flat Rate is your friend. It ships in one to three business days and utilizes pre-defined USPS packing. Prices vary by box size:
Padded envelope: $9.65
Small box: $9.45
Medium box: $16.10
Large box: $21.50
(USPS even has a special Priority Mail Shoe Box to ship footwear through its service, big enough to fit a size 13 men’s shoe, a perfect online-retailer option.
The USPS Priority Mail Shoe Box
The USPS Priority Mail Shoe Box is a dedicated mail service with a exclusive shipping box for shoes. The box measures 14-7/8 inches long, 5-1/4 inches wide, and 7-3/8 inches tall, so it should fit most average-size shoes. This box provides a flat rate shipping option, meaning the price is the same no matter how heavy the shoes will be (as long as the shoes fit in the dimensions of the box).
Highlights of the USPS Priority Mail Shoe Box include:
Flat-Rate Shipping: You ship shoes for a set price, is an inexpensive choice, and there’s no surcharge for weight — as long as everything fits inside the box.
Design Build Strong: The box is designed to ensure your shoes arrive at their destination without damages.
Cost: Available free at USPS locations; may also be ordered online via the USPS Postal Store
All you have to do is pack your shoes inside, seal the box shut, and attach the proper postage with the Priority Mail Shoe Box. You buy the postage through USPS Click-N-Ship or at a retail outlet. This box is especially convenient for shipping shoes for gifts, returns, or businesses looking to send shoes to customers.
Variable Rate Shipping: Priority Mail is also a variable rate, where the cost of shipping depends on the size and weight of the package as well as being shipped to the destination. Although it tends to cost more than flat-rate shipping, this approach allows for more flexibility in terms of packaging and speed (there’s even overnight, if you’re willing to pay for it).
USPS services offer versatility, whether you need to send small, lightweight items or larger shipments. Pricing is competitive, especially with flat-rate offerings for shipping of multiple pair of shoes.
FedEx and UPS shipping rates for shoes
Both FedEx and UPS provide flexible pricing for shipping shoes, depending on your requirements. Whether you want flat rate or variable prices, each carrier offers solutions based on the speed you need and your shipping volume.
Flat Rate Shipping
UPS Simple Rate:
· Based on package size and selected delivery speed, with distance irrelevant to the price.
· Use your own boxes.
· Up to 50 lbs per package.
· UPS Ground, UPS 3 Day Select and UPS 2nd Day Air
FedEx One Rate:
· Depending on package size, how quickly it needs to be delivered, and the distance involved.
· You must use FedEx packaging, but it is free and can be ordered online.
· Up to 50 lbs per package.
· Includes FedEx Express Saver, FedEx 2Day, FedEx Standard Overnight, etc. Flat rate products are more convenient for LTL shipments under 1,200 lbs.
Variable Pricing
With variable rates, shipping costs depend on the box size, the weight of the shipment, and the distance that your package will travel. Here is a range of shipping fees according to routes and box size:
Box Size: 10" x 5" x 5" (Weight: 5 lbs, approx. single pair of shoes)
- Philadelphia → Miami
- UPS: $16.42 – $124.76
- FedEx: $17.27 – $155.28
- Philadelphia → Los Angeles
- UPS: $20.07 – $138.57
- FedEx: $20.08 – $180.69
- Chicago → Dallas
- UPS: $14.42 – $120.99
- FedEx: $17.27 – $155.28
- Cleveland → San Diego
- UPS: $20.07 – $138.57
- FedEx: $20.08 – $180.69
Box Size: 14" x 12" x 8" (Weight: 20 lbs, approx. 5 pairs of shoes)
- Philadelphia → Miami
- UPS: $31.50 – $218.43
- FedEx: $25.03 – $278.53
- Philadelphia → Los Angeles
- UPS: $52.91 – $241.39
- FedEx: $39.52 – $311.81
- Chicago → Dallas
- UPS: $29.50 – $214.66
- FedEx: $25.03 – $278.53
- Cleveland → San Diego
- UPS: $52.91 – $241.39
- FedEx: $39.52 – $311.81
Box Size: 18" x 14" x 12" (Weight: 40 lbs, approx. 10 pairs of shoes)
- Philadelphia → Miami
- UPS: $56.16 – $327.76
- FedEx: $41.53 – $425.98
- Philadelphia → Los Angeles
- UPS: $93.90 – $384.48
- FedEx: $69.58 – $483.24
- Chicago → Dallas
- UPS: $54.16 – $323.99
- FedEx: $41.53 – $425.98
- Cleveland → San Diego
- UPS: $93.90 – $384.48
- FedEx: $69.58 – $483.24
Notice: Please note that these cost estimates are approximate and based on the providers’ online calculators. Exact prices and shipping times may vary.
International Shoe Shipping
When shipping shoes worldwide, you must know the customs rules of the country you’re sending to. Make sure all forms are filled out right to prevent delays. Standard shipping takes 7 to 21 days, but express services can get your shoes there in 3 to 7 days.
Use strong packaging to keep your shoes safe during their journey. Also, include all the details needed for customs forms.
Here is a summary of the delivery times and costs for various international shipping services:
USPS Priority Mail International
- Delivery Time: 1-3 weeks
- Cost: $5.99 – $59.99*
UPS Worldwide Express
- Delivery Time: 3-7 days
- Cost: $60 – $120*
FedEx International Economy
- Delivery Time: 5-7 days
- Cost: $50 – $100*
Notice: Prices may vary according to destination and package size and weight.
The Importance of Shoe Packing
Good shoe packaging will protect the shoes during shipping. It ensures they are in good physical condition. This preserves the product’s quality and helps provide the buyer with a great first look at their new shoe.
Customers could talk about your brand to others when you create unboxing experience. It also reduces shipping costs by utilizing the proper box size. That opens up cheaper options for how to ship the shoes.
Transporting Shoes Without Damage
To avoid getting shoes damaged, the first thing to do is to ship them properly. This is a huge deal for luxury or delicate shoes. Bubble-wrapping them, using tissue and putting in “shoe trees” keeps them safe and looking good.
Make the Unboxing Experience Memorable
How customers feel about the brand can depend on how the shoes are packed. A nice box and good presentation do make a difference. They reward positive reviews and social media shares in the experience.
Minimizing Shipping Costs
It costs less money overall to smart ship. The right box and materials can help reduce shipping prices. This helps you to save money and at the same time helps show better pricing to your customers.
Factors to Consider When Packaging Shoes
When sending out shoes, remember key points to keep them safe. Think about the design complexity and if you have the original box. Also, think about the right packaging materials.
Design Complexity
Shoes with lots of details or sharp parts need careful packaging. They can get damaged easily. Make sure to use the right materials to keep them safe from harm.
Presence of the Original Box
Sometimes, the original shoe box isn’t enough for shipping protection. Adding a strong outer box can keep shoes safe. This step ensures your shoes stay in perfect shape until they’re opened.
Packaging Materials
Selecting the appropriate packaging materials is crucial. Bubble wrap, tissue paper and sturdy boxes all do their part. Selecting the right materials for your shoes can help make them easier and cheaper to ship.
Final Remarks
When shipping shoes, there are several elements to consider, from weight and size to distance and carrier choice, that contribute to the total cost. By learning about shipping carriers’ pricing structures, flat-rate options, and potential bulk discounts, you can identify the most affordable method for sending shoes across the country or around the globe. On the contrary, shipping is an essential process in shoe shipping, which is why we need to ensure the proper packaging of shoes in order to protect them during transit, upgrade the unboxing experience, and reduce the shipping cost. No matter if you’re an individual sending a single pair or a retailer managing shipments of thousands, taking the time to plan and research the process can help simplify the process and save some bucks. Now, with sneaker culture, sustainability, and customization trends on the rise, the footwear business is continuing to evolve, and efficient shipping solutions are more important than ever.
