A complete guide to packing skis, snowboards and winter sports equipment for overseas shipping from New Zealand.
Whether you're heading overseas for a ski holiday, relocating to another country or sending your winter sports equipment to family or friends, proper packaging is essential.
Skis and snowboards are long, awkwardly shaped and often expensive. Their edges, bindings and surfaces can be vulnerable to damage if they aren't adequately protected during international transport.
At Send Stuff, we help customers arrange international shipping from New Zealand for skis, snowboards, excess baggage and personal belongings.
In this guide, we'll explain how to pack skis and snowboards for international shipping, what packaging materials to use and what to check before sending your winter sports equipment overseas.
1. Choose the Right Ski or Snowboard Packaging
The first step is choosing packaging that provides adequate protection throughout the shipping process.
There are three common options.
Hard-Shell Ski and Snowboard Cases
Hard-shell travel cases provide rigid protection against external knocks and pressure.
They're particularly useful for expensive skis, snowboards and equipment being transported internationally.
A suitable hard-shell case may be accepted without additional outer packaging, depending on the carrier's requirements.
Padded Ski and Snowboard Bags
Padded travel bags are popular because they're lightweight, convenient and designed specifically for winter sports equipment.
However, soft-sided bags generally provide less protection against crushing and impacts.
If using a padded bag, additional internal cushioning is recommended, particularly around the bindings, tips and tails.
An outer shipping carton may also be required.
Corrugated Cardboard Shipping Boxes
Strong corrugated cardboard cartons are another option for shipping skis and snowboards internationally.
Choose a box that is long enough to accommodate the equipment without forcing it against the ends.
The carton should also allow sufficient space for protective padding around the contents.
Our recommendation: Use a suitable hard-shell travel case or strong, correctly sized shipping carton with adequate internal cushioning. Confirm packaging acceptance before arranging shipment.
2. Clean and Dry Your Skis or Snowboard
Before packing, thoroughly clean your equipment.
Remove:
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Snow, ice and moisture
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Mud and soil
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Grass and organic material
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Dirt from bindings and boots
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Debris from travel bags and equipment
Use a soft cloth to dry the equipment completely.
This helps prevent moisture becoming trapped inside the packaging during transport.
Cleaning is particularly important for international shipments because destination countries may have biosecurity requirements for used outdoor sporting equipment.
Tip: Allow ski boots, snowboard boots and other damp accessories to dry completely before packing.
3. Protect Ski and Snowboard Bindings
Bindings are among the most vulnerable components of skis and snowboards during shipping.
They contain mechanical parts that can be damaged by impacts or excessive pressure.
For Skis
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Secure the skis together using suitable ski straps.
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Place a soft protective layer between the skis to prevent rubbing.
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Add padding around the bindings.
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Ensure the skis cannot slide against each other.
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Avoid placing heavy objects directly on top of the bindings.
For Snowboards
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Protect the bindings with bubble wrap, foam or suitable padding.
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Consider removing the bindings if practical and recommended by the manufacturer.
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If removing bindings, keep all screws and components together in a sealed bag.
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Protect exposed mounting points from impacts and abrasion.
If bindings remain attached, make sure the travel bag or carton provides enough clearance to prevent pressure being applied to them.
4. Protect the Tips, Tails and Edges
Ski and snowboard tips, tails and metal edges can be damaged during handling.
These areas should receive additional protection before the equipment is placed inside its travel bag or shipping carton.
We recommend:
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Wrapping the tips and tails with foam or bubble wrap.
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Using edge protectors or suitable cushioning along exposed edges.
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Adding extra padding around vulnerable corners.
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Securing the protective material so it cannot move.
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Checking that no sharp edges are exposed to the outer packaging.
For snowboards, consider wrapping the entire board in a protective sleeve before placing it inside the travel bag.
For skis, protect both ends and ensure the skis are securely held together.
Important: Avoid allowing sharp metal edges to rest directly against cardboard, as they may damage the carton during transport.
5. Secure Your Equipment Inside the Travel Bag or Box
Once the equipment is protected, carefully position it inside the selected packaging.
The goal is to minimise movement during transport.
Suitable cushioning materials include:
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Bubble wrap
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Foam padding
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Packing paper
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Protective equipment sleeves
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Clean towels or clothing
If using a cardboard shipping carton, provide approximately 5 cm of protective cushioning around the equipment, where practical.
Fill empty spaces so the skis or snowboard cannot move significantly inside the package.
Pay particular attention to the ends of the carton, where long equipment may experience impacts during handling.
Avoid overpacking or forcing equipment into packaging that is too small.
6. How to Pack Ski Boots and Snowboard Boots
Ski boots and snowboard boots can generally be shipped alongside your winter sports equipment, subject to packaging and carrier requirements.
However, they should be packed carefully.
Packing Ski Boots
Ski boots are relatively heavy and rigid.
We recommend:
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Cleaning and drying them thoroughly.
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Fastening buckles and straps.
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Wrapping each boot separately.
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Placing cushioning between the boots.
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Preventing the boots from moving against skis or bindings.
Packing Snowboard Boots
Snowboard boots are generally softer but still require protection.
Secure laces and straps, ensure the boots are dry and use suitable cushioning.
Our recommendation: Where practical, pack heavy ski boots in a separate sturdy carton rather than placing them directly against skis or snowboards.
This can reduce the risk of damage caused by heavy items moving during transport.
7. Check for Restricted Items Before Shipping
Before sealing your ski or snowboard bag, inspect every pocket and compartment.
Winter sports bags may contain accessories that require additional checks for international transport.
Examples include:
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Aerosol sprays
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Ski waxes and cleaning products
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Flammable liquids
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Loose lithium batteries
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Battery-powered heated clothing
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Electronic avalanche safety equipment
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Battery-powered boot warmers
Some ski and snowboard maintenance products may be classified as dangerous goods.
Certain avalanche airbags may contain compressed gas cylinders or other regulated components.
Important: Do not include potentially restricted items without confirming their shipping eligibility.
Items permitted in airline passenger baggage are not necessarily permitted in international cargo shipments.
If you're unsure whether an item can be shipped, contact Send Stuff before packing.
8. Seal Your Ski or Snowboard Shipping Carton
If you're using a cardboard shipping carton, it must be properly sealed to withstand normal handling during transport.
We recommend using the H-taping method.
How to H-Tape a Shipping Box
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Close the carton flaps securely.
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Apply strong packing tape along the centre seam.
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Apply additional tape across both outer edges where the flaps meet the carton.
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Repeat the process on the bottom of the carton.
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Reinforce any vulnerable areas if necessary.
Use strong pressure-sensitive packing tape suitable for shipping cartons.
Avoid household adhesive tape, masking tape or string.
For travel bags, secure all zips, buckles, handles and loose straps.
Make sure no straps or accessories can become caught during handling.
9. Measure and Weigh Your Packed Skis or Snowboard
Before requesting an international shipping quote, you'll need the approximate packed weight and dimensions.
Measure the complete package, including any protruding wheels, handles or other features.
Record:
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Length: In centimetres
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Width: In centimetres
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Height: In centimetres
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Weight: In kilograms
Why Package Dimensions Matter
Skis and snowboards are often relatively lightweight compared with their overall length.
International freight charges may be calculated using the greater of actual weight or volumetric weight.
This means a long ski shipping carton may attract a higher freight charge than expected, even if the contents are not particularly heavy.
Oversized package handling charges may also apply depending on the shipping service.
Providing accurate dimensions helps Send Stuff prepare a more reliable shipping quote.
10. Attach Your Shipping Label Correctly
Once your equipment is securely packed, the shipping label must be clearly visible.
For cardboard cartons, attach the label to a flat external surface.
Avoid placing labels over:
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Carton seams
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Corners
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Openings
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Handles
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Areas where the label may become damaged
For hard-shell cases and travel bags, a suitable shipping label pouch or tag may be required.
When arranging shipping through Send Stuff, we'll advise on the required shipping documentation and labelling arrangements.
Can You Ship Skis and Snowboards Internationally From New Zealand?
Yes. Skis and snowboards can generally be shipped internationally from New Zealand, subject to the destination, packaging requirements, shipment dimensions and carrier acceptance.
Popular destinations for winter sports equipment include:
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Australia
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Japan
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Canada
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United States
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United Kingdom
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European countries
Whether you're heading to Japan for the ski season, relocating to Canada or returning home after a winter in New Zealand, international shipping may be an option for transporting your equipment.
Some destinations may have additional customs or biosecurity requirements, particularly for used outdoor equipment.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship Skis or a Snowboard Overseas?
The cost of international ski and snowboard shipping depends on several factors, including:
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Destination country and delivery address
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Packed weight
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Package length, width and height
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Packaging type
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Collection and delivery requirements
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Applicable handling or customs charges
Long ski bags and snowboard cartons may be subject to additional size restrictions or handling charges.
At Send Stuff, we assess each shipment individually and provide a tailored quote based on the equipment and destination.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shipping Skis and Snowboards
Can I ship skis in a padded ski bag?
Potentially, yes. However, padded ski bags provide less rigid protection than hard-shell cases. Additional cushioning or an outer shipping carton may be required depending on the carrier.
Should I remove snowboard bindings before shipping?
Removing bindings can reduce the overall package profile and help protect the bindings, provided removal is practical and follows the manufacturer's instructions. Bindings may also remain attached if adequately protected and accepted for shipping.
Can I ship ski boots with my skis?
Generally, yes, subject to packaging and carrier requirements. Heavy ski boots should be securely packed and prevented from moving against the skis or bindings.
Can I ship ski helmets and goggles?
Generally, these can be shipped, provided they are adequately protected and meet the applicable carrier and destination requirements. Helmets should be packed to prevent impacts and crushing.
Can I ship used skis or snowboards overseas?
Yes, used equipment can generally be shipped internationally. Thoroughly clean and dry the equipment before packing, as customs and biosecurity requirements may apply.
Do I need a cardboard box to ship skis?
Not always. Some hard-shell travel cases may be accepted without additional outer packaging. Soft-sided travel bags may require a shipping carton depending on the service.
How do I get a quote for international ski shipping?
Provide the destination country, delivery address, packed weight and dimensions of your skis or snowboard. Send Stuff can then review the shipment and provide a tailored quote.
Ready to Ship Your Skis or Snowboard Overseas?
Whether you're heading overseas for a ski holiday, relocating internationally or sending winter sports equipment to another country, Send Stuff can help arrange international shipping from New Zealand.
We assist with enquiries involving:
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Skis and ski travel bags
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Snowboards and snowboard bags
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Ski boots and snowboard boots
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Winter sports clothing
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Excess baggage and personal belongings
Simply tell us where your equipment is going, along with its approximate packed weight and dimensions.
GET A FREE SHIPPING QUOTE
This guide provides general packaging advice only. All shipments are subject to carrier acceptance, applicable transport restrictions and destination requirements. Proper packaging reduces the risk of damage but does not guarantee protection during transit.