How to ship fishing rods
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Shipping fishing rods can be tricky, as they are long and fragile items that require careful packing. Generally, the Post Office won’t cater for particularly long items and some couriers will charge extra once your package reaches a certain length.
However, Parcel Monkey can help you find couriers that will ship long items like fishing rods and compare prices so you can catch the best deal for shipping fishing rods domestically and internationally.
How to mail a fishing rod
Depending on the type of fishing rod you’re sending, there are a variety of options for shipping fishing rods.
Mailing a telescopic or two-piece rod is relatively straightforward, as this can be reduced to a manageable size. However, your options will be a bit more limited if you’re looking to ship a one-piece rod, as a lot of couriers won’t transport something so long.
Find out about our shipping services for large and long items.
How much does it cost to post a fishing rod?
The cost of shipping a fishing rod depends on the size, weight and destination of your packaged rod, but the Parcel Monkey shipping calculator can help you find the cheapest way to ship fishing rods, whether you’re sending domestically or overseas. Simply enter the weight, dimensions and destination and we’ll show you a variety of carriers to choose from, all at discounted rates.
How to prepare your fishing rod for shipping
Fishing rods are fragile items that require special care when packing, but fortunately, there are a variety of packaging options available, so with some care and attention rods can be shipped perfectly safely.
Whether you’re going on a fishing trip and shipping your rod ahead, or you’ve sold a rod online and you’re sending it to the new owner, this guide will tell you everything you need to know about packaging and shipping fishing rods.
What do I need to package a fishing rod?
Make sure you have plenty of bubble wrap, polystyrene (or shipping peanuts) and packing tape. You’ll also require a container that’s strong enough to protect the rod.
The obvious choice is a purpose-made fishing tube or case, but if you’re using one of these, you’ll still need to pack it into a box for shipping, as the case will not provide enough protection on its own. This can mean the whole package becomes very bulky and heavy which will increase your shipping costs.
If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative, try visiting your nearest fishing tackle shop and ask if they have any leftover tubes from rods they’ve had delivered to them. You might even get it free of charge. Another option is a piece of sewer pipe or gutter downpipe bought from a DIY store.
If you’re using one of these methods to make a tube, be sure you leave a good two inches of space either end to allow for plenty of padding.
How to pack a fishing rod for postage
- If you have a telescopic or two-piece fishing rod, get it into its shortest form.
- Wrap separate pieces in bubble wrap individually, paying particular attention to the tip of the rod. Use packing tape to ensure the bubble wrap is securely in place.
- Place the sections into the tube and pack it out with bubble wrap or polystyrene, to ensure there’s no movement once everything is in place.
- Seal the ends and cover the tube with bubble wrap for a further layer of protection.
- Attach a large and clear ‘Fragile, please handle with care’ note to the outside of the package
- Weigh and measure the packaged rod, enter the details into our shipping calculator and select the service that suits you best.
How to pack multiple fishing rods
If you buy a big enough tube, you could send multiple rods in one tube, however, you need to ensure you have enough space for adequate padding. Don’t compromise on this, if in doubt, ship the rods separately or get a larger tube.
Make sure each rod is wrapped individually in bubble wrap, then arrange them facing in the opposite directions. Make sure the butts stick out an inch or two from the tips and ensure the ends have extra padding.
How to post fishing rods internationally
Size restrictions are a bit tighter when it comes to shipping overseas, but you should have no problems sending a telescopic fishing rod. Our Parcel Monkey own-brand services can help you send items up to 84 inches in length to destinations around the globe at an affordable price.
Complete the customs forms we provide for international shipments and make sure you include a contact number for the recipient.
Can I insure my fishing equipment when shipping?
During the Parcel Monkey booking process, you will have the option to add protection cover to your order. This means we can offer compensation in the event of the rod being lost, stolen or damaged*.
*Compensation will only be paid on damaged items if our packaging requirements have been met. For more general information on packaging please see our packaging guide.
Can I send a fishing rod I have sold online?
If you have sold a fishing rod online, via Amazon, eBay or another marketplace, our courier services are ideal for online selling.
Our shipping rates are significantly cheaper than going direct to a carrier and include full tracking and protection cover – you can even share the tracking information with the recipient, so they can track the parcel all the way to their door.