How to Ship Kayaks & Canoes: Freight Guide

Kayaks and canoes are too large for standard parcel carriers and must be shipped as freight. These items typically range from 8 to 17 feet long and require palletizing or custom crating. The good news is that freight shipping for kayaks is more affordable than many expect when you use a freight broker.

Best Carrier

uShip freight or Estes Express LTL

Package Type

pallet

Typical Weight

35-80 lbs

Shipping Tips for Kayaks & Canoes

Use uShip.com to get competitive freight quotes from multiple LTL carriers — rates are often $100-$250 for domestic shipments
Secure the kayak to a wooden pallet with heavy-duty strapping; pad contact points with foam to prevent hull damage
Cover the entire kayak in stretch wrap after padding to protect against scratches and moisture
Remove or secure all loose accessories (paddles, seats, hatches) separately or tape them down inside the hull
Take photos of the kayak before and after packaging — essential for filing a freight damage claim if needed

Create Your Shipping Label

From (Sender)

To (Recipient)

Package Details

Weight (lbs)

Weight (oz)

Package Type

Length (in)

Width (in)

Height (in)

Label Options

Label Size

Carrier Format

Service Type

Reference Number

Scannable Code (from Reference Number)ⓘ

Encodes the Reference Number above as a real, scannable code. Not a carrier tracking barcode — use for your own order IDs, SKUs, or RMA numbers.

FRAGILETHIS SIDE UP

Label Preview

SHIPPING LABEL

From:

Sender address

Ship To:

Recipient address

Enter reference # to generate barcode

REF-000000

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5 fields needed to generate

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How it works: We format the label with your barcode/QR. Buy postage from your carrier (USPS, UPS, FedEx, DHL) — they add the tracking barcode at drop-off.

Shipping Kayaks & Canoes FAQ

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Related Resources

USPS Labels UPS Labels Cheapest Shipping Best Printers