How to Ship Golf Clubs? Everything You Need to Know

You’re planning a golf vacation and want to avoid the hassle of dragging your clubs through the airport.

Figuring out how to ship your golf clubs safely and affordably can be confusing with so many options like FedEx Ground, UPS Ground, and Ship Sticks.

This guide will walk you through the entire process, step-by-step, so your clubs arrive at your destination in perfect condition, whether it’s Pebble Beach or your local pro shop.

What Are My Options?

There are several different ways to ship your golf clubs, and the best method for you depends on several factors.

Your budget, how quickly you need your clubs to arrive, and how much protection you want for them.

Shipping Carriers

• FedEx Ground/UPS Ground: These are popular choices and are usually cheaper than other options. They’re great for shipping within the United States, but they can take a few days longer than other methods.
• Ship Sticks: This company specializes in shipping golf clubs. They offer door-to-door service and can even pick up your clubs from your house or the pro shop. They’re usually more expensive, but they often include insurance and take extra care of your clubs.
• USPS: While not specifically for golf clubs, the U.S. Postal Service can be a good option if you’re on a budget. Just be aware that they have size restrictions, and your clubs might not be handled as gently as other carriers.

Packaging Methods

• Golf Travel Bag: These are soft-sided bags designed for traveling with your clubs. They’re lightweight and easy to carry, but they don’t offer as much protection as hard cases.
• Hard Travel Case: These cases offer the best protection for your clubs, especially club heads, but they can be heavier and more expensive.
• Cardboard Box: If you’re on a budget, you can ship your clubs in a sturdy cardboard box. Just make sure to pack them carefully with plenty of padding.

No matter which method you choose, you’ll need to package your clubs carefully to prevent damage. We’ll cover that in the next section!

Packing Your Golf Clubs

Now that you’ve picked how you want to ship your clubs let’s make sure they arrive at the golf course in one piece!

Here’s how to pack them up like a pro:

What You’ll Need

• Your Golf Bag or a Hard Travel Case: This is where your clubs will live during their journey. If you’re using your golf bag, make sure it’s sturdy and has a good cover.
• Bubble Wrap: Lots and lots of bubble wrap! This is your club’s best friend for protection.
• Packing Tape: You’ll use this to secure the bubble wrap and make sure everything stays in place.
• Sharpie: This is for writing your shipping label.

Packing Steps

1. Clean Your Clubs: Give them a good wipe-down. You don’t want any dirt or sand scratching them up during shipping.
2. Protect the Club Heads: These are the most delicate parts of your clubs. Put headcovers on them or wrap them in a few layers of bubble wrap. Secure the bubble wrap with tape so it doesn’t come loose.
3. Wrap Each Club: Wrap each club individually in bubble wrap. Start at the top of the club and wrap all the way down to the grip. Don’t be shy with the bubble wrap! The more, the better.
4. Place Clubs in the Bag: Could you arrange your clubs snugly in the bag? If there’s any space, fill it with bubble wrap or soft clothes.
5. Secure Everything: Zip up your golf bag or close your travel case. If you have any straps, you can fasten them tight. You don’t want anything moving around inside.
6. Add the Shipping Label: Write your name, address, and phone number clearly on the shipping label. Make sure to include the address of the golf course where you want your clubs delivered. Attach the label securely to your bag.

Extra Tips

• Take Pictures: Before you seal up your bag, take pictures of how you’ve packed everything. This will be helpful if your clubs get damaged and you need to file an insurance claim.
• Check Weight and Size Limits: Different shipping carriers have different weight and size restrictions. Check with your chosen carrier to make sure your bag is within their limits.

By following these steps, you can rest easy knowing your clubs are packed up safe and sound for their journey!

How to Ship Your Golf Club

Alright, your clubs are all packed up and ready to go. Now comes the fun part – deciding how you’ll ship them!

Here’s a quick look at your options, keeping in mind your budget and how soon you need your clubs to arrive:

FedEx/UPS Ground

• Good for If you’re not in a rush and want to save some money.
• How long it takes: Usually 3-5 business days within the United States.
• Cost: It depends on the weight and size of your bag, but it’s generally less expensive than other options.
• What’s included: You can usually get complimentary insurance up to a certain amount.
• Extra tip: If you have a FedEx or UPS account, you might get a discount on shipping charges.

Ship Sticks

• Good for If you want a hassle-free experience and don’t mind paying a bit more.
• How long it takes: They offer different shipping speeds, so you can choose what works best for you.
• Cost: More expensive than FedEx/UPS Ground, but they often have special deals or discounts.
• What’s included: They usually include insurance, and they take extra care in handling your clubs.
• Extra tip: They offer door-to-door service, so you don’t even have to leave your house!

USPS

• Good for If you’re on a tight budget and don’t need your clubs super fast.
• How long it takes: It can take a week or longer, depending on where you’re shipping to.
• Cost: Usually the cheapest option.
• What’s included: You can purchase insurance separately.
• Extra tip: If you can, use a sturdy box with plenty of bubble wrap for extra protection.

No matter which method you choose, remember:

• Label clearly: Make sure your name, address, and phone number are clearly written on the shipping label.
• Track your shipment: Most carriers offer tracking so you can see where your clubs are and when they’ll arrive.
• Don’t forget insurance: It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.
• Add more bubble wrap: Seriously, you can never have too much bubble wrap when shipping golf clubs!

The best shipping method is the one that fits your needs and budget. Choose wisely, and your clubs will be waiting for you at the first tee!

Shipping Your Golf Clubs: Tips and Tricks

You’re almost ready to send your clubs on their way! But before you do, here are some extra tips to make the process even smoother:

• Shipping Your Clubs Ahead: If you’re heading on a golf vacation, consider shipping your clubs ahead of time. This way, you won’t have to worry about them getting lost or damaged in transit. Plus, you’ll have one less thing to carry through the airport!
• Shipping Directly to Your Hotel or Golf Course: Many hotels and golf courses will accept golf clubs directly, saving you the hassle of picking them up at a shipping store. Just be sure to call ahead and let them know your clubs are on their way.
• Adding a Support Rod: Some golf bags come with a support rod that helps protect your clubs from damage. If yours doesn’t, you can purchase one online or at a golf store. It’s a small investment that could save you a lot of heartache in the long run.
• Choosing the Right Box: If you’re not using a travel bag or case, make sure you choose a sturdy box that’s big enough for your clubs. You don’t want them rattling around inside.
• Shipping a Single Club: If you only need to ship one club, UPS offers a special tube-shaped box that’s perfect for the job. It’s the cheapest way to ship a single club and offers good protection.

Need More Help?

If you still need to figure out the best way to ship your clubs, don’t worry! You can always ask for expert advice at your local shipping store.

They can help you choose the right packaging method, carrier, and insurance options.

Remember, shipping your golf clubs doesn’t have to be a hassle. With a little planning and preparation, you can make sure they arrive at your destination safe and sound, ready for your next round of golf.

Conclusion

Shipping your golf clubs doesn’t have to be a hassle.

It’s a simple way to make your next golf trip a whole lot easier! No more lugging heavy bags through the airport or waiting anxiously at baggage claim.

Your clubs will be waiting for you at the golf course, ready for your next round.

Whether you choose FedEx, UPS, Ship Sticks, or USPS, remember to pack your clubs carefully, label your packages clearly, and track your shipment. Also, remember the extra tips we shared to make the process even smoother.

Now, go out there and enjoy your next round of golf with the peace of mind that comes from knowing your clubs are taken care of.

Frequently Asked Questions