July 15, 2026
How to Ship an Arcade Cabinet in 2026: Costs, Prep & Avoiding Damage
Arcade cabinets are tall, top-heavy, and full of fragile glass and electronics. Here is how to ship an arcade machine safely in 2026 — prep steps, packing, shipping methods, and real cost ranges.
How to Ship an Arcade Cabinet Safely
Whether it's a classic upright, a sit-down racer, or a modern multi-game cabinet, arcade machines are awkward to move and easy to damage. They're tall, top-heavy, and packed with a glass marquee, monitor, and control electronics. If you're wondering how to ship an arcade cabinet, here's the process that keeps it safe from pickup to delivery.
Why Arcade Cabinets Need Special Handling
- Top-heavy design. A full-size upright can tip if not secured properly.
- Fragile glass. The marquee and monitor glass crack under impact or vibration.
- Sensitive electronics. Boards, monitors, and wiring don't like shock or moisture.
- Weight. Uprights run 250–400+ lbs, so liftgate or two-person handling is often required.
Step-by-Step Prep
- Power down and unplug, then coil and secure the power cable.
- Protect the marquee and monitor glass with cardboard and foam padding; tape carefully (never directly on artwork).
- Immobilize the control panel and any hinged or removable doors.
- Remove or secure loose parts — coin box, spare keys, joysticks if detachable.
- Photograph the cabinet from all sides for condition records.
- Wrap in moving blankets, then add corner protection and shrink wrap.
Palletizing and Securing
For freight shipping, an arcade cabinet should be strapped upright to a sturdy pallet:
- Bolt or ratchet-strap the base to the pallet so it can't shift.
- Add corner boards and blanket padding around the cabinet.
- Keep it upright at all times — never lay a cabinet on its back or side.
- For high-value or vintage machines, consider custom wood crating.
Shipping Methods and Cost
| Method | Typical Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| LTL freight (palletized) | $250–$600 | Standard relocations |
| Liftgate service | +$75–$150 | No loading dock |
| Blanket-wrap / white glove | $500–$1,200 | High-value or inside delivery |
| Custom crated freight | $400–$900 + crate | Vintage / collector cabinets |
Liftgate Is Usually Required
Because cabinets are heavy and most homes and arcades lack a loading dock, you'll typically need liftgate service at pickup and delivery. Request it when booking — adding it later costs more.
Insurance for Collector Cabinets
Standard freight liability (around $0.60/lb) won't come close to replacing a rare cabinet. Declare the full value and buy full-value coverage for vintage or restored machines.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship an arcade machine? Most palletized LTL shipments run $250–$600, plus liftgate if needed. White-glove and crated vintage shipments cost more.
Can you ship an arcade cabinet on its back to save space? No. Cabinets must stay upright to protect the monitor, glass, and internal components.
Do I need a crate? Not for most cabinets — blanket wrap on a pallet is enough. For rare or restored machines, a custom crate is worth the added protection.
Is the machine insured in transit? Basic liability applies by default but is minimal. Declare full value and add coverage for anything collectible.
Ship Your Arcade Cabinet With Experts
From single uprights to full arcade relocations, we palletize, protect, and ship your machines with liftgate and white-glove options. Request an arcade shipping quote with your cabinet type and pickup/delivery details.