Ship anything unusual, oversized, or one-of-a-kind

Specialty and oversized shipping covers the widest range of cargo in the transport industry — from a single grand piano to a 50-ton industrial transformer to a priceless piece of sculpture. What unites these shipments is that they all require something beyond standard transport: special equipment, custom securing, permits, or careful handling that goes above and beyond a typical move.

The key to a successful specialty shipment is communication. Provide as much detail as possible in your listing: exact dimensions (height, width, depth, and weight), photos from multiple angles, material composition (is it wood, metal, glass, stone?), and any fragility concerns. Describe the pickup and delivery locations in detail — will the carrier need a crane to lift the item over a fence? Is there a narrow doorway? Are there stairs? The more information carriers have, the more accurate their bids will be and the fewer surprises will arise on moving day.

For oversized loads that exceed legal highway dimensions, the permitting and logistics process adds complexity and cost. Each state has its own rules for oversized transport, including maximum dimensions, travel-hour restrictions, required escort vehicles, and approved routes. A load traveling coast to coast may need permits from eight or more states, each with different requirements. Experienced oversized carriers manage this entire process, but it takes time — book at least two to three weeks in advance for permit-dependent shipments.

Custom crating and packaging deserve special attention for fragile, antique, or high-value items. A professional crating service builds a wooden crate tailored to your item with internal bracing, foam cushioning, and sometimes climate barriers. While crating adds cost, it dramatically reduces the risk of damage and gives you recourse with insurance if something does go wrong. For items like artwork, musical instruments, medical equipment, or electronics, custom crating is not a luxury — it is a necessity. Always discuss packaging options with your carrier and factor crating costs into your budget from the start.