How to ship · electronics
How to ship a microwave
Microwaves ship fine via parcel if packed correctly. The magnetron (the heavy electronics) and the turntable glass are the two vulnerable parts.
- Typical weight
- Countertop: 25-40 lb, Over-the-range: 40-80 lb
- Rate band tracked
- 20 lb
- Cheapest option
- UPS Ground with original box
Live rates
What it costs to ship a microwave, right now
A 20 lb parcel from New York, NY to Los Angeles, CA. Actual cost for your microwave varies by ±10-30% with its specific weight and destination zone.
- 01
Ground FedEx 4d $46.79 +$37.48 - 02
Ground Saver UPS 5d $9.31 cheapest - 03
Ground Advantage USPS 5d $9.65 +$0.34
Close call Only $0.34 (4%) separates the cheapest from the runner-up. Free USPS home pickup or a closer drop-off can erase this gap. Pick by convenience, not price, at this margin.
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Before you pack
The box and materials
Box
Original box or 2 in larger box with foam
Typical countertop microwave box: 24 x 20 x 14 in
The turntable glass must ship in its own padded bag.
Checklist
- Corrugated box
- Bubble wrap
- Turntable glass bag
- Foam sheets
- Tape
The process
Pack a microwave in 5 steps
01 of 05
Remove the turntable glass
Lift out the glass plate and the rotating ring. Wrap each in bubble.
02 of 05
Secure the door
Tape the door shut with painter tape; otherwise it swings open in transit.
03 of 05
Wrap the main unit
Full 2+ layers of bubble around the microwave body.
04 of 05
Pack turntable glass in its own labeled bag
Glass in a padded bag or small box, tucked into the main shipping box.
05 of 05
Fill gaps with foam or peanuts
No movement allowed inside the main box.
Carrier notes
Which carrier to use
USPS
Ground Advantage up to 70 lb; most countertop microwaves fit.
UPS
Ground for over-the-range units.
FedEx
Similar to UPS.
Insurance + declared value
Protecting the package
Declare at replacement cost for microwaves over $150.
Specialty shippers are usually not worth it here.
Parcel handles microwaves fine.
FAQ
Common questions
Q01 Do I need to drain anything in the microwave?
No. Modern microwaves have no user-serviceable fluid.
Q02 What about over-the-range microwaves with mounting hardware?
Ship the mounting kit in a separate small box with the main shipment.
Q03 Can I ship with the turntable glass inside?
Only if the original foam has a slot for it. Most original boxes have this.