How to Ship Desks: Executive, Standing, and L-Shaped Desk Guide

Your desk is more than just furniture—it's the centerpiece of your productivity, the foundation of your workspace, and often a significant investment. Whether you're relocating your home office, moving to a new corporate space, or shipping a desk you've sold online, understanding how to properly pack and transport different desk types is essential to ensuring it arrives in perfect condition.

Not all desks are created equal when it comes to shipping. A sleek standing desk with motorized components requires completely different handling than a solid wood executive desk or a sprawling L-shaped workstation. Each type presents unique challenges, from disassembly complexity to weight distribution to protecting specialized mechanisms.

The good news? With the right approach, knowledge, and preparation, you can ship any desk safely and efficiently. ShipSmart specializes in shipping large and delicate items like desks, with years of experience ensuring these valuable pieces arrive safely at their destination. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about shipping executive desks, standing desks, and L-shaped desks, with practical tips that apply whether you're handling the move yourself or working with professional shippers.

For broader furniture shipping strategies that complement this guide, check out our article on how to ship furniture.

1. Executive Desks

Executive desks command attention. These substantial pieces are designed to convey authority and professionalism while providing ample workspace and storage. They're also among the most challenging desks to ship due to their size, weight, and often intricate construction.

Overview of Executive Desks

Executive desks typically feature:

• Large surface area: Often 60-72 inches wide or more
• Substantial weight: 150-300+ pounds depending on materials
• Built-in storage: Multiple drawers, filing cabinets, and compartments
• Premium materials: Solid wood (oak, mahogany, cherry, walnut), wood veneer, or high-end engineered wood
• Detailed finishing: Inlays, carved details, leather tops, or decorative hardware
• Modular construction: Separate pedestals, hutches, or return sections

The combination of weight, size, and often delicate finishes means executive desks require careful planning and proper handling throughout the shipping process.

Step-by-Step Shipping Guide for Executive Desks

Disassembly:

Before you can ship an executive desk, you need to break it down into manageable components. This reduces both weight and dimensions, making shipping more feasible and affordable.

1. Remove all drawers: Take out every drawer and pack them separately. Never leave drawers in place during shipping—the weight and movement can damage slides and the desk frame itself.
2. Detach modular components: If your desk has separate pedestals (the drawer units on either side), disconnect them from the main desktop. Remove any hutches, keyboard trays, or return sections.
3. Remove the desktop: Most executive desks have a desktop that fastens to the base with bolts or screws. Locate these fasteners (often underneath) and carefully remove them.
4. Disassemble pedestals if possible: Some pedestals can be further broken down by removing the top or back panels.
5. Keep hardware organized: Place all screws, bolts, and fasteners in labeled plastic bags. Tape these bags to the corresponding furniture piece or keep them all together in a clearly marked container.
6. Take photos during disassembly: Document each step with your smartphone. These photos are invaluable during reassembly.

Packing Materials:

Protecting an executive desk requires quality materials designed for heavy furniture:

• Moving blankets or furniture pads: Wrap the desktop and each major component completely
• Bubble wrap: Use for protecting hardware, decorative elements, and drawer fronts
• Corner protectors: Foam or cardboard protectors prevent edge damage
• Stretch wrap: Secure moving blankets in place and protect against dirt and moisture
• Sturdy boxes: For drawers, hardware, and smaller components
• Custom crating: Consider professional crating for antique or extremely valuable desks

Packing process:

1. Wrap drawers individually: Remove any contents, wrap each drawer in bubble wrap, then place in appropriately sized boxes with padding
2. Protect the desktop: This is the most visible and vulnerable component. Wrap it in multiple layers of moving blankets, securing with stretch wrap. Add corner protectors to all four corners.
3. Wrap pedestals: Cover each pedestal with moving blankets, paying special attention to any exposed edges or decorative elements
4. Protect glass or leather elements: If your desk has a glass top or leather inlay, use cardboard sheets between the surface and the wrapping material to prevent impressions or damage
5. Label everything: Mark each wrapped piece with its contents and orientation ("Desktop - This Side Up")

Shipping Options:

Executive desks are too large and heavy for standard parcel shipping. Your options include:

• LTL (Less Than Truckload) freight: Most common option for executive desks. Your desk shares truck space with other freight. Cost-effective and reliable.
• Full truckload shipping: If moving an entire office worth of furniture, dedicated trucks may be economical
• White glove service: Premium handling with professional packing, inside delivery, and assembly services
• Professional movers: Full-service moving companies handle everything from disassembly to setup

For detailed guidance on shipping heavy furniture pieces like executive desks, our how to ship furniture safely article provides additional strategies and considerations.

Handling Executive Desks

Protecting delicate finishes:

• Never drag executive desks—always lift
• Use furniture sliders when moving across floors
• Keep hands clean when handling polished wood to avoid transferring oils
• Protect carved details and inlays with bubble wrap before applying moving blankets
• For leather-topped desks, use acid-free paper between the leather and any wrapping materials

Special considerations:

• Antique desks: May require climate-controlled shipping to prevent wood expansion/contraction
• Glass-topped desks: Remove glass and ship separately, wrapped extensively with bubble wrap and cardboard
• Desks with marble elements: Extremely heavy; may need professional rigging equipment for safe handling

ShipSmart has extensive experience with high-value executive furniture and can provide custom solutions that protect your investment throughout the shipping process.

2. Standing Desks

Standing desks represent the modern evolution of workspace design, combining ergonomic benefits with technology. These adjustable-height desks let users alternate between sitting and standing, but their mechanical or electronic components require special shipping considerations.

Overview of Standing Desks

Standing desks come in several varieties:

• Electric standing desks: Feature motorized height adjustment via electric motors and control panels
• Manual standing desks: Use crank handles or pneumatic systems for height changes
• Fixed-height standing desks: Non-adjustable desks designed for standing work
• Desktop converters: Sit-on-top units that convert regular desks (easier to ship)

Key components that need protection:

• Height adjustment motors and controllers
• Lifting columns or legs with internal mechanisms
• Control panels and wiring
• Desktop surface (often laminate, bamboo, or solid wood)
• Frame and crossbars

Step-by-Step Shipping Guide for Standing Desks

Disassembly:

Standing desks are generally easier to disassemble than executive desks, but the electronic components require care.

1. Lower the desk to minimum height: This reduces shipping dimensions and protects the lifting mechanism
2. Disconnect all power: Unplug the desk and disconnect any cable management systems
3. Remove the desktop: Most standing desks have a desktop that bolts onto the frame. Remove these bolts (typically 4-8 bolts) and lift the desktop off.
4. Detach legs from crossbars if possible: Some models allow you to separate the lifting columns from the base frame
5. Protect cables and controllers: Wrap control boxes and cables in bubble wrap and secure them to prevent tangling
6. Pack hardware systematically: Keep all bolts, screws, and mounting hardware in labeled bags

Packing Materials:

Standing desks require materials that protect both furniture surfaces and electronic components:

• Anti-static bubble wrap: For motors and control boxes
• Heavy-duty plastic sheeting: Wrap metal frames to prevent scratches
• Foam padding: For corners and edges of the desktop
• Moving blankets: For the desktop surface
• Cable ties: Keep wiring organized and prevent damage
• Sturdy boxes: Original packaging is ideal if available; otherwise, use boxes sized to fit components snugly

Packing process:

1. Wrap electronic components first: Cover motors, control boxes, and cables with anti-static bubble wrap, then place in boxes with additional padding
2. Protect the desktop: Wrap in moving blankets or foam padding, securing with stretch wrap. Add corner protectors.
3. Wrap the frame: Cover metal legs and crossbars with plastic sheeting or moving blankets to prevent scratches and rust
4. Secure moving parts: Use tape or cable ties to prevent legs from extending during transit
5. Box smaller components: Pack feet, hardware, and accessories in clearly labeled boxes

Shipping Options:

The size and weight of standing desks determine your shipping options:

• Compact standing desks (under 50 lbs): May qualify for parcel shipping if properly boxed
• Standard standing desks (50-150 lbs): Usually require freight shipping
• Heavy-duty or extra-large desks (150+ lbs): Definitely need freight services
• Multiple desks: Consider LTL freight with palletization for cost efficiency

For advice on protecting electronic components during shipping, visit our comprehensive packing and shipping tips guide.

Handling Standing Desks

Securing the adjustment mechanism:

The height adjustment system is the most vulnerable part of a standing desk. To protect it:

• Lock the mechanism if possible: Some desks have shipping locks or pins designed specifically for transport
• Lower to minimum height: Reduces stress on the mechanism
• Don't compress the lifting columns: Avoid stacking items on top of the frame that could damage internal components
• Protect motor housing: Wrap motors securely to prevent impact damage

Tips for reassembly at the new location:

1. Reassemble on a clean, flat surface: Makes alignment easier
2. Don't overtighten bolts initially: Hand-tighten all bolts first, then go back and fully tighten in sequence
3. Test the mechanism before loading: Once reassembled, test the height adjustment with no weight on the desktop
4. Recalibrate if necessary: Some electric standing desks need recalibration after shipping (consult manufacturer instructions)
5. Check for loose wiring: Ensure all electrical connections are secure
6. Verify stability: Test the desk at various heights before loading it with equipment

Common issues and solutions:

• Desk won't raise/lower: Check power connections and verify motors weren't damaged; may need reset
• Uneven height: Recalibrate according to manufacturer instructions
• Wobbling: Ensure all bolts are fully tightened and the desk is on a level surface
• Controller not responding: Check cable connections between controller and motors

ShipSmart understands the technical nature of standing desks and can provide specialized packing that protects both the furniture and the adjustment mechanisms.

3. L-Shaped Desks

L-shaped desks maximize corner space and provide extensive work surface, making them popular for home offices and executive workspaces. However, their size and configuration make them among the most challenging desks to ship.

Overview of L-Shaped Desks

L-shaped desks feature:

• Two connected sections: Typically one larger section and one smaller return
• Corner unit: Some have a dedicated corner piece connecting the two sections
• Substantial footprint: Often 60-70+ inches on both sides
• Weight: 200-400+ pounds for the complete desk
• Various materials: Wood, laminate, glass, metal frames
• Built-in storage options: Drawers, filing cabinets, shelves, hutches

Common configurations:

• Two separate pieces: Join at a right angle with connectors
• Three-piece designs: Two desktops plus a corner unit
• Integrated designs: Cannot be separated (most difficult to ship)

Step-by-Step Shipping Guide for L-Shaped Desks

Disassembly:

Breaking down an L-shaped desk properly is crucial for manageable shipping:

1. Clear the entire desk: Remove everything from surfaces and all storage areas
2. Remove all drawers and storage components: Take out every drawer, remove any shelving units
3. Identify connection points: Look for bolts, brackets, or connectors joining the sections
4. Disconnect the sections: Carefully separate the main desk from the return section
5. Remove the corner unit if applicable: This connecting piece usually detaches from both sections
6. Detach legs or pedestals: Remove any freestanding legs or support pedestals from each desktop section
7. Remove hutches or overhead storage: These typically bolt to the main desk
8. Disassemble modular components: Break down any additional parts like keyboard trays, filing cabinets, or shelving

Photography is essential: Take detailed photos at each disassembly step, especially connection points and hardware locations.

Packing Materials:

L-shaped desks require substantial packing materials:

• Heavy-duty moving blankets: You'll need 8-12 blankets for a typical L-shaped desk
• Furniture corner protectors: Essential for protecting edges on multiple large pieces
• Stretch wrap: Several rolls for securing blankets and protecting against moisture
• Bubble wrap: For drawer fronts, glass elements, and hardware
• Large boxes: For drawers and smaller components
• Custom crating: Consider for glass tops or extremely valuable desks
• Pallet materials: If shipping via freight, palletization may be necessary

Packing process:

1. Wrap each desktop section separately:
   • Cover the entire surface with moving blankets
   • Add corner protectors to all corners and edges
   • Secure with stretch wrap
   • Mark which section is which ("Main Section - 60"" or "Return Section - 48"")
2. Pack drawer units and pedestals:
   • Wrap each piece completely in moving blankets
   • Protect any exposed hardware
   • Secure drawers shut with tape (don't leave items inside)
3. Protect glass tops separately (if applicable):
   • Remove glass from desk frame if possible
   • Create a cardboard sandwich: cardboard, bubble wrap, glass, bubble wrap, cardboard
   • Mark "FRAGILE - GLASS" on all sides
   • Ship flat, never on edge
4. Box smaller components:
   • Pack drawers individually in boxes with padding
   • Box all hardware in clearly labeled bags
   • Pack keyboard trays, monitor arms, and accessories in separate boxes
5. Create a component list:
   • Number each wrapped piece
   • Create a master list of all components
   • Attach a copy to the main section and keep a copy for yourself

Shipping Options:

Due to their size, L-shaped desks almost always require freight shipping:

• LTL freight on pallets: Most economical option. Each major section goes on its own pallet, wrapped and secured.
• Blanket-wrap freight: Pieces are loaded directly into the truck with moving blankets (no crating)
• Crated freight: Custom crating provides maximum protection for valuable desks
• White glove delivery: Includes inside delivery, unpacking, assembly, and debris removal
• Dedicated truck: For multiple large furniture pieces or complete office moves

Our pallet shipping guide offers detailed advice on how to prepare large items for palletized freight shipping.

Handling L-Shaped Desks

Packing large glass tops:

Glass tops are the most fragile component of many L-shaped desks:

1. Always remove glass from the frame: Never ship with glass in place
2. Clean the glass thoroughly: Dirt can cause scratching during transport
3. Create protective layers:
   • Place cardboard sheet on work surface
   • Add layer of bubble wrap
   • Place glass on bubble wrap
   • Add another layer of bubble wrap on top
   • Top with another cardboard sheet
   • Tape edges securely
4. Pack in a specialized glass crate or glass pack box if available
5. Mark multiple sides: "FRAGILE - GLASS - THIS SIDE UP - DO NOT LAY FLAT"
6. Ship standing upright when possible: Glass is stronger on edge than flat
7. Never stack anything on glass packages

Ensuring secure transit:

• Proper palletization: Strap each piece to its pallet with heavy-duty strapping
• Weight distribution: Place heavier components on bottom of pallet loads
• Blocking and bracing: Use foam or wood blocks to prevent shifting
• Weatherproofing: Cover palletized loads with plastic sheeting for moisture protection
• Clear documentation: Label each pallet with contents, destination, and handling instructions

Reassembly tips:

1. Lay out all components before starting: Identify every piece and organize hardware
2. Refer to your disassembly photos: Work backward through your photo documentation
3. Start with the main section: Assemble the larger desktop and its supports first
4. Add the return section: Connect at the appropriate angle (usually 90 degrees)
5. Install the corner unit: If your desk has a separate corner piece, position it last
6. Level the desk: Use adjustable feet or shims to ensure stability
7. Reattach drawers and accessories: Install everything in the reverse order of removal
8. Test stability: Gently push on all corners to verify solid connections

ShipSmart has extensive experience shipping L-shaped desks and complex office furniture configurations. Our team can handle disassembly, professional packing, and coordinated delivery to ensure your workspace is set up properly at your new location.

4. General Shipping Tips for All Desk Types

While executive, standing, and L-shaped desks each have unique requirements, several universal principles apply to shipping any desk safely and economically.

Choosing the Right Shipping Method

The ideal shipping method depends on several factors:

Size and weight considerations:

• Under 70 lbs: May qualify for parcel shipping (UPS, FedEx) if dimensions allow
• 70-150 lbs: Typically requires freight shipping or specialized furniture delivery
• Over 150 lbs: Definitely needs freight services with lift gate delivery
• Oversized dimensions: Items over 108 inches in length or 96 inches in combined dimensions need freight

Distance factors:

• Local moves (under 100 miles): Rental truck or local delivery service
• Regional moves (100-500 miles): LTL freight or regional movers
• Long-distance moves (500+ miles): LTL freight, cross-country movers, or blanket-wrap services
• International shipping: Requires freight forwarding, customs clearance, and typically shipping container services

Service level options:

• Economy freight: Terminal-to-terminal service (you handle pickup and delivery at freight terminals)
• Standard LTL freight: Curbside delivery to residential or business addresses
• Lift gate service: Necessary for residential deliveries without loading docks
• Inside delivery: Carrier brings items inside the first threshold
• White glove service: Full-service including unpacking, assembly, placement, and debris removal

Timeline considerations:

• Standard freight: 5-14 business days depending on distance
• Expedited freight: 2-5 business days (significantly more expensive)
• Guaranteed delivery: Pay premium for specific delivery date
• Flexible timeline: Save money by accepting standard shipping windows

For a comprehensive breakdown of different furniture shipping methods and when to use each, see our guide on how to ship furniture.

Insurance and Protection

Desks represent significant financial investments—protect them accordingly.

Standard carrier liability:Most freight carriers provide minimal coverage based on weight (typically $0.60 per pound). This means:

• A 200-lb desk worth $2,000 gets only $120 in coverage
• This covers loading/unloading only, not always full transit
• Claims processes can be complex and time-consuming

Declared value coverage:

• Pay extra to declare the full value of your desk
• Provides significantly better protection
• Usually costs 1-5% of declared value
• Read the terms carefully—many exclude certain types of damage

Third-party shipping insurance:

• Companies like U-Pic, Shipsurance, or InsureShip offer comprehensive coverage
• Often more affordable than carrier-declared value
• Typically covers more types of damage
• Easier claims processes
• Covers door-to-door, not just while in carrier's possession

What to insure:

• New or nearly new desks: Insure for replacement value
• Antique or vintage desks: Get appraisals and insure for appraised value
• Custom or designer desks: Document with photos and insure for full replacement cost
• Desks with sentimental value: While you can't insure sentiment, proper coverage at least provides financial recovery

Documentation for claims:

1. Pre-shipping photos: Photograph desk from all angles before packing
2. Detailed inventory: List all components, materials, and identifying features
3. Receipts or appraisals: Prove the value of your desk
4. Condition documentation: Note any pre-existing damage to avoid disputes
5. Packing documentation: Photos of how items were packed (proves proper care)
6. Delivery documentation: Inspect items immediately upon delivery and note any damage on delivery receipt

Packaging Dos and Don'ts

DO:

• ✓ Use quality, appropriately sized packing materials
• ✓ Disassemble desks completely when possible
• ✓ Keep all hardware organized in labeled bags
• ✓ Take photos during disassembly for reassembly reference
• ✓ Protect all corners and edges with corner guards
• ✓ Wrap glass separately and mark clearly as fragile
• ✓ Use furniture blankets for all exposed surfaces
• ✓ Secure moving blankets with stretch wrap, not tape directly on furniture
• ✓ Label each component clearly with contents and destination room
• ✓ Create an inventory list of all pieces being shipped
• ✓ Mark fragile items on multiple sides of packages
• ✓ Allow adequate time for proper packing (don't rush)

DON'T:

• ✗ Overload boxes beyond their weight capacity
• ✗ Skip disassembly steps to save time
• ✗ Leave drawers or contents in furniture
• ✗ Use tape directly on finished wood surfaces
• ✗ Pack glass flat without adequate protection
• ✗ Mix hardware from different furniture pieces
• ✗ Assume carriers will handle items carefully
• ✗ Forget to remove or secure loose components
• ✗ Use old, damaged boxes or worn packing materials
• ✗ Neglect to document the condition before shipping
• ✗ Ship without adequate insurance
• ✗ Pack unrelated items together without proper separation

Material quality matters:Cheap packing materials save a few dollars upfront but can cost hundreds or thousands in damage. Invest in:

• Double-walled boxes for heavy items
• Professional-grade moving blankets (not the thin ones)
• Quality packing tape (at least 2 inches wide)
• Adequate quantities (don't skimp—use more than you think you need)

5. Additional Tips for Moving Desks Safely

Success in desk shipping comes down to preparation, organization, and knowing when to call in professionals.

Step 1: Plan Ahead

Create a timeline:

• 3-4 weeks before moving: Research shipping options and get quotes
• 2-3 weeks before: Order packing materials and schedule shipping services
• 1-2 weeks before: Begin disassembly and packing of non-essential items
• 1 week before: Complete packing and confirm shipping details
• Moving day: Final walk-through and handoff to shippers

Measure everything:

• Measure your desk's dimensions (assembled and disassembled)
• Measure doorways, hallways, and elevators at both origin and destination
• Measure stairways if applicable
• Confirm your desk will fit through all passages—better to discover problems early

Plan the route:

• Identify the best path for moving the desk out of the current space
• Remove any obstacles (door stops, hanging items, floor mats)
• Protect walls and floors with cardboard or moving pads
• Have someone help guide you through tight spaces

Step 2: Label Everything

Proper labeling turns chaos into organization and prevents the nightmare of missing parts.

Component labeling:

• Number each major piece (Desktop 1, Pedestal 1A, Drawer 1A-1, etc.)
• Indicate orientation ("This Side Up", "Front", "Back")
• Note destination room ("Master Bedroom Office", "Second Floor Study")
• Mark fragile items on all visible sides

Hardware organization:

• Use separate bags for hardware from different components
• Label bags with component names and hardware quantities
• Tape hardware bags to the corresponding furniture piece when possible
• Keep a master hardware container with all bags organized inside

Create a legend:Make a simple diagram showing:

• How many total boxes/pieces you're shipping
• What each numbered component is
• Which pieces connect to which
• Keep one copy with the shipment and one copy for yourself

Color coding:Use colored stickers or tape for different desk areas:

• Red: Main desktop and frame
• Blue: Storage components (drawers, pedestals)
• Green: Hardware and small parts
• Yellow: Glass or other fragile elements

Step 3: Consider Professional Help

While DIY packing saves money, professional services often pay for themselves through efficiency, proper materials, and damage prevention.

When to hire professionals:

• You have a valuable antique or designer desk (protection worth the cost)
• The desk is extremely heavy or requires special rigging (safety issue)
• You lack time to pack properly (rushing causes damage)
• You're moving long-distance (logistics complexity)
• The desk has complex electronics or mechanisms (technical expertise needed)
• You have physical limitations (don't risk injury)
• You're shipping multiple desks or complete office setup (volume discount)

What professionals provide:

Packing services:

• Expert assessment of packing requirements
• Professional-grade materials included
• Proper disassembly techniques
• Efficient packing that maximizes protection
• Full documentation and labeling
• Insurance coverage typically included

Shipping services:

• Best rates due to volume discounts
• Established relationships with reliable carriers
• Proper selection of shipping method
• Coordinated pickup and delivery
• Tracking and communication
• Problem resolution if issues arise

Full-service options:

• Complete disassembly at origin
• Professional packing and materials
• Transportation coordination
• Delivery to destination
• Reassembly and placement
• Debris and packing material removal

ROI calculation:Consider:

• Your time value (hours saved × your hourly rate)
• Material costs (professional bulk pricing vs. retail)
• Risk mitigation (cost of potential damage without insurance)
• Physical effort (avoiding injury or exhaustion)
• Peace of mind (priceless for many people)

ShipSmart offers expert packing and shipping services for all types of desks, from executive desks to standing desks. Our team ensures they arrive at your destination safely and in perfect condition. We handle the technical aspects of disassembly, use professional-grade materials, coordinate logistics, and provide comprehensive insurance options—allowing you to focus on your move while we handle your valuable office furniture.

Conclusion

Shipping a desk—whether it's a commanding executive desk, an ergonomic standing desk, or a spacious L-shaped workstation—requires understanding the unique characteristics of each type and applying appropriate packing and shipping methods. The key elements of success remain consistent: thorough disassembly, quality packing materials, proper labeling, adequate insurance, and choosing the right shipping method for your specific situation.

Executive desks demand respect for their weight, craftsmanship, and finishes. Standing desks require special attention to their mechanical and electronic components. L-shaped desks present logistical challenges due to their size and configuration. Yet all three can be shipped successfully when you follow proven techniques and take the time to do things properly.

Remember that your desk is not just furniture—it's the foundation of your productivity and often represents a significant financial investment. Whether you choose to handle the packing yourself or engage professional services, prioritize protection over cost savings. The few hundred dollars saved by cutting corners can quickly evaporate when a damaged desk arrives at your destination.

Whether you're moving an executive desk, a standing desk, or a bulky L-shaped desk, ShipSmart is your trusted partner for safe and efficient desk shipping. Our experts take care of the packing, shipping, and insurance, so your office setup arrives just the way it left. From initial assessment through final placement and assembly, we provide customized solutions that match your timeline, budget, and service level preferences.

Ready to ship your desk? Contact ShipSmart today for a free quote and experience the peace of mind that comes with professional furniture shipping services.