Ship your bike instead of renting a new one when you arrive at your destination.
Participating in an out-of-state bike race can be an exciting opportunity. Keep the excitement up by shipping your bicycle from the East Coast to the West Coast as cheaply as possible. You must obtain shipping quotes from different shipping carriers, but, with a few shipping tricks, you can box your bicycle at the cheapest cost possible. Shipping your bike to a cycling event will save you money on bike rental costs, which can be pricey.
Instructions
1. Measure the bike frame from the front to the back, as well as from the center of the crank to the seat tube.
2. Buy an accurately sized cardboard bicycle box, which are available at local bicycle shops. Sizing the box beforehand will help you to save on shipping costs. To learn size a bicycle box, proceed to Step 3. If you are familiar with this process, proceed to Step 4.
3. Measure the dimensions of the box, which include the length, height and depth. Use a shipping calculator to estimate the shipping cost. Websites such as FedEx.com and UPS.com, both of which offer shipping service from the East to the West Coasts, provide online and in-store shipping calculators. Enter the shipping address for the bicycle and estimate the weight of the box.
4. Pack the box tightly. Using a larger bicycle box than is needed may result in your bicycle exceeding the approved dimensional weight and height allowed before additional charges apply. Remove the wheels, pedals, seat post and handlebars if necessary. You can also position the handlebars sideways if you do not wish to remove them.
5. Protect your bicycle with a fork protection block, which you insert into the fork to prevent damage. Use an axle protector, which you press onto the front axle to prevent it from bursting through the box.
6. Save money by transporting your helmet, bike rack (which can be disassembled using a screwdriver), cycling gear, air pump and other accessories in separate luggage. Transport these items to your destination by car, bus or plane, if possible.
7. Ship your bicycle in advance of your cycling event to avoid hefty overnight charges. Insure your bicycle based on its estimated value.
