How to Ship a Rowing Machine in Australia

Figuring out how to ship a rowing machine in Australia can feel daunting at first. These machines are bulky, awkward, and often weigh 38–193 kilos, not something you can just throw in the back seat. Maybe you’re relocating interstate, selling a second-hand rower, or setting up equipment for a new gym. Whatever the reason, the key is preparation. 

In this guide, we’ll break down the practical steps to get your rowing machine ready for transport and show you how to book the right courier service to handle it safely.

How to Ship a Rowing Machine

Here’s the short version of how to ship a rowing machine in Australia. These machines are large and awkward, so following the right steps helps you avoid damage and delays:

• Measure and weigh your rowing machine before getting a courier quote.
• Disassemble removable parts like the console, seat, or arms.
• Wrap each section with blankets, bubble wrap, or stretch wrap.
• Place screws and bolts in a sealed bag and tape it to the frame.
• Label all components clearly with delivery details.
• Book a courier that handles bulky freight.
• Choose the best delivery method: same-day metro, next-day, or interstate road/rail.
• Track your shipment until delivery is complete.

These steps cover the essentials for safe transport.

If you’d rather skip the hassle, Couriers & Freight can help. Our Big & Bulky Delivery service lets you compare carriers instantly, choose the option that fits your budget and timeframe, and track your machine from pickup to drop-off.

Ship Your Rowing Machine the Easy Way

Get fast, reliable bulky delivery across Australia with Couriers & Freight.

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Why Shipping a Rowing Machine is Complicated

Shipping a rowing machine isn’t like sending a carton or a small appliance. These machines are usually more than two metres long, weigh up to 193 kilos (for elite athletes), and have a narrow frame that’s awkward to carry through doorways or hallways. Trying to shift one during a house move, or load it into a van without help, quickly shows why standard freight services aren’t designed for this type of delivery.

For gyms, personal trainers, and equipment resellers, the challenges are even more common. Bulky machines mean tight spaces, heavy lifting, and higher freight costs. The risks don’t stop there: if the frame isn’t supported correctly, it can bend. Consoles are easily cracked or scratched, and even a dent can lower resale value.

That’s why the right packing and courier choice matter. With some preparation and the right carrier, you can protect your machine and avoid unnecessary costs. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to get it right.

Step-by-Step Guide to Shipping a Rowing Machine

Step 1: Measure and Weigh Your Machine

Start by taking down the length, width, and height of your rowing machine. Most models are between 2 and 2.5 metres long and weigh 38–193 kilos, bigger than most people expect. 

Couriers need exact details to calculate freight costs, and if you guess wrong, you risk extra fees or delays. Having the numbers ready also makes it easier to compare courier quotes.

Step 2: Disassemble for Safer Transport

Taking the machine apart reduces the chance of damage. Remove the console, seat, and arms if your model allows. Keep screws, bolts, and fittings in a sealed bag, then tape it to the frame so nothing goes missing. It keeps reassembly simple and prevents a frustrating search for small parts later.

Step 3: Pack and Protect Properly

Don’t rely on luck when it comes to packing. Wrap the frame in moving blankets or bubble wrap, and give the console extra padding. For interstate transport, palletise the equipment so it doesn’t shift around in the truck. Stretch wrap or heavy-duty plastic sheeting helps protect against scratches, dirt, and even a sudden rain shower during loading.

Step 4: Label Clearly for Delivery

Clear labelling avoids confusion at depots and during handover. Write your name, delivery address, and contact number directly on the package. Add “Bulky” and “Fragile” markings in bold so handlers know it needs extra care. 

That way, even if paperwork slips or scans fail, the driver still knows exactly where the machine is going.

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Choosing the Right Courier for a Rowing Machine

Not every courier that delivers parcels can manage a two-metre rowing machine or even a treadmill. Standard services have strict weight and size limits, and even when they accept bulky items, they may not have the equipment or staff to move them safely. That’s why choosing the right courier is just as important as packing your machine correctly.

What to look for in a courier:

• Big & bulky freight capability: Carriers that can load and transport items over 25–50kg.
• Transit insurance: To cover accidental damage, such as a cracked console.
• Tracking tools: So that you can see where your machine is during transit.
• Handling support: Staff trained to load and unload bulky equipment.

Couriers & Freight vets carriers before listing them on our platform, making sure they have the right equipment and experience with rowing machine delivery. 

Our Big & Bulky Delivery Service connects you with multiple carriers at once, so you can compare quotes instantly, choose the option that fits your budget and timeframe, and book with confidence for both domestic and international moves.

Costs and Delivery Options in Australia

How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Rowing Machine?

Costs vary based on distance, weight, and delivery speed. For metro or local deliveries, prices usually start at $100–$200. Interstate bulky freight is higher, typically $250–$600, with longer routes costing more. 

For example, moving a rowing machine from Sydney to Melbourne often falls between $250–$400, depending on the service level.

Extra options like palletising, packing help, or transit insurance can add to the total but also protect your equipment. A damaged console or bent frame is far more expensive to replace than adding insurance upfront. 

The best way to control costs is to compare multiple quotes through Couriers & Freight’s Big & Bulky Delivery service.

Delivery Options for Rowing Machines

When booking rowing machine delivery within Australia, you’ll usually choose between:

• Standard bulky freight – most affordable for non-urgent moves.
• Express or next-day metro delivery – ideal if you need it fast.
• Interstate road or rail freight – suited to long-distance transport.
• White glove services – premium delivery with unpacking and setup included.

Couriers & Freight helps you line up these options side by side, so you can choose the one that fits your budget and timeframe.

Shipping a Rowing Machine Overseas

Can you ship a rowing machine overseas?

Yes, but not every courier will take it. Rowing machines are classed as bulky freight, so you’ll need a carrier that handles international delivery for bulky and large items. Always confirm service availability before booking.

How much does it cost to ship a rowing machine internationally?

Prices vary by destination and service speed. Sending a rower to New Zealand might start from $500–$700, while shipping to the US or Europe can cost $1,000+. On top of the base freight, expect extra charges for customs clearance, port handling, and insurance. Checking multiple quotes is the best way to avoid surprises.

What’s the safest way to ship a rowing machine overseas?

Disassemble the machine, wrap each part securely, and palletise the load. Palletising keeps the equipment stable during long transit times. Since international delivery can take 2–6 weeks, choose a courier that provides both tracking and transit insurance.

Ready to Ship Your Rowing Machine?

Moving a rowing machine is never as simple as lifting and going. But with the right courier, it can be straightforward.

Unlike sending a small parcel, this kind of delivery calls for the right equipment and know-how. That’s where Couriers & Freight comes in. 

Our platform lets you compare quotes instantly, book the service that fits your budget, and track the shipment every step of the way. Ready to get moving?

Ship Your Rowing Machine the Easy Way

Get fast, reliable bulky delivery across Australia with Couriers & Freight.

Get a Quote Now