Shipping Bulky Goods Made Easy – Our Guide
Everything you need to know about dimensions, packaging and booking
Shipping bulky goods is no science — but there are some important rules you should know to get your shipment safely to its destination and avoid unnecessary extra costs. In this guide we explain what bulky goods actually are, which dimensional requirements apply, how to pack optimally and how to find the best rate at NexCargo.
What are bulky goods?
Bulky goods are shipments that cannot be sent as standard parcels due to their dimensions or weight. In the logistics industry the following limits generally apply: a shipment is classified as bulky goods when the longest side exceeds 120 cm, the total weight exceeds 31.5 kg, or the girth of the shipment (2× height + 2× width + length) exceeds 300 cm.
Typical bulky goods shipments include furniture, refrigerators and washing machines, bicycles and e-bikes, mopeds and engine parts, building materials such as panels and gratings, artwork and mirrors, as well as long pipes, metal profiles and lamps. Large industrial components such as machine parts or solar modules also frequently fall into this category.
Important dimensional requirements at a glance
- Longest side: more than 120 cm → bulky goods rate required
- Weight: more than 31.5 kg → bulky goods rate required
- Girth: 2× height + 2× width + length > 300 cm
- Maximum length: up to 600 cm for standard transport, above requires special solution
- Maximum weight: up to 1,000 kg for single shipments (depending on rate)
Tip: If you are unsure whether your shipment qualifies as bulky goods, use our price calculator. It automatically recognises the appropriate rate based on your details.
Packaging tips for bulky goods
Good packaging protects your shipment and prevents damage claims. Bulky goods have special requirements because these shipments are more frequently reloaded during transport and transported together with other goods.
Choose a sturdy outer packaging: use double-walled corrugated cardboard boxes or sturdy wooden crates for heavy and sensitive goods.
Do not forget inner padding: bubble wrap, foam corners and cushioning material prevent the contents from shifting and being damaged inside the box.
Prefer original packaging: if available, the manufacturer's original packaging is usually most suitable — it is tailored to the product.
Use edge protection: for sensitive edges (e.g. on furniture or glass panels), edge protection profiles made of cardboard or plastic protect against pressure damage.
Label shipment clearly: sender and recipient must be legibly printed on the outer packaging. For bulky goods we also recommend a "This side up" sticker and "Fragile" if necessary.
Tie multiple packages together: if your bulky goods consist of multiple parts, connect them securely with stretch film or tape into a single unit.
How to book bulky goods at NexCargo
Step 1: Enter dimensions
Go to nexcargo.de and enter the length, width, height and weight of your shipment in the price calculator. The system automatically recognises whether a bulky goods rate is required.
Step 2: Select rate
You receive several price options: standard shipping, express shipping and — for urgent or particularly valuable shipments — our direct transport service. All prices are fixed prices without hidden costs.
Step 3: Book collection
After booking you receive an order confirmation with the exact collection date. Our driver comes to you — you only need to have the shipment ready to dispatch.
Step 4: Track shipment
After collection you can track your shipment in real time via a tracking link. For any questions our customer support is available Mon–Fri from 08:00–17:00.
Special cases and what to consider
Certain bulky goods categories require special attention: hazardous goods (e.g. lithium batteries in e-bikes) may not be sent with standard rates and require a separate booking. Glass products and mirrors are particularly susceptible to breakage and should always be sent with appropriate packaging instructions and insurance cover.
If in doubt, we recommend contacting our customer support before booking. We advise you free of charge and find the best solution for your specific shipment.
