Because of the awkward shape and size of bikes, they can be challenging to ship. Prevent your bicycle from getting damaged during shipping by following this step-by-step guide to ensure it’s properly packed and prepared.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Shipping a Bicycle

1. Disassemble

Remove protruding parts—handlebars, seat, seat post, and pedals—and wrap each piece individually. Remove the calipers and either both wheels or, depending on the size and shape of your bike box, only the front wheel. Use a pad spreader to keep brake pads separated. If possible, take off the rear derailleur and hanger as well as accessories, such as bottle cages, racks, and fenders.

2. Prepare Pieces

Protect your bike from scratches by wrapping it in foam padding and securing it with tape or plastic zip ties. Zip-tie larger components, such as the handlebars and the seat, to the bike frame to keep them from moving around inside the box.

Placed smaller pieces—the pedals, for example—inside a small bag or box, and tape them to the inside of the bike box to hold them secure. Use a fork spacer to keep the forks from flexing, partially deflate the tires, and encase both wheels in foam.

3. Pack & Ship

Choose the right box size for your bike and add layers of cushioning to hold contents in place. Repack or reposition anything that rolls around or rattles. Fill empty spaces with packing peanuts, and seal each seam with several layers of packing tape.

Get the help you need to ship a bike anywhere in the world by contacting Box Stop in Lexington, KY. This packaging and shipping center has been serving residents of central Kentucky since 1985. Their dedicated team makes customer satisfaction a priority and will help you find solutions that fit your budget. Call (859) 271-2393 to talk to a member of the staff, or visit the website to learn more about the store.