Help and advice
Post a bike
When you need to send a bike in the post, it's important to choose a name you can trust. We've been delivering parcels for over 25 years, setting the standard for exceptional quality of service and developing a range of services that offer the perfect balance between speed and price. We know that bicycles can be highly valuable, so you'll be pleased to know that all our UK services include compensation cover in the price, with the option to purchase cover to a higher value if required.
When sending a bike, it's really important to ensure that it's properly packaged to ensure it arrives at it's destination in good condition. Read the guide below to find out more about how to correctly package a bike.
Packaging advice for sending a bicycle
Gather the equipment
Before going ahead and packaging your bike, gather everything you need so it's all to hand.
Remove the pedals
The bike probably won't fit inside the box with the pedals on, and even if it does, they could poke through the cardboard and get damaged. Use a pedal spanner (you can buy one for a couple of pounds on eBay) to unscrew the pedals. Remember, the left pedal spindle is reverse threaded, so turn clockwise to remove the pedal when facing the crank arm.
Remove the saddle
Most newer bikes use a quick release lever, but on some models you'll need a spanner. Whichever type you're bike uses, just loosen it off and pull the saddle upwards. Try wiggling the saddle in turning movements if it's a bit stuck.
Remove the front wheel
Like the saddle, most newer bikes feature quick release mechanisms, but some will use standard nuts. They should be fairly easy to undo with a spanner or socket and ratchet.
Protect the rear wheel
Wrap some bubblewrap or similar material around the rear wheel axel to prevent it poking through box and damaging the thread.
Protect the frame
Use foam pipe insulation or bubblewrap to protect the bike frame and forks from scratches
Turn the handlebars
Use an allen key to loosen the stem slightly, and turn your rotate your handlebars so they align with the frame of the bike.
Prevent movement
Using cable ties, fix the loose rear wheel to the frame of the bike to prevent it moving around inside the box. You should also fix the loose handlebars to the frame, as shown in the clip above.
Fill the voids
This is a really important step in packing the bike, as it prevents scratches caused by loose objects inside the box. Polystyrene or recycled packaging chips are best..
Seal the box
When sending a bike, we always recommend using 'the H seal', which means taping down the centre of the box, and then across each of the smaller ends.
Add handholds
Use a sharp knife to carefully cut handholds to make the box easier to move.
Add a return to sender label
This is a really important step in case there are any problems with the delivery of your bike.
How to send a bike
Booking a a delivery service for your bike is easy on parcelforce.com. We offer convenient options too, so you can choose to arrange a collection from your home or place of work, or drop off at one of our 54 depots nationwide, or your local Post Office® branch.
To book your parcel courier online:
- Head to our quote and book page and enter your parcel details
- Select your preferred service and pickup/drop off option
- Choose additional compensation cover if required
- Pay by credit card, debit card, or PayPal
- The parcel label will be emailed for you to print and affix to the parcel
