Tricks and Tips for Shipping Your Mobility Scooter with TravelScoot USA

Shipping anything these days can feel like a wallet-draining experience—but when it comes to shipping a mobility scooter, the costs and logistics can add up even more. At TravelScoot USA, we’ve helped thousands of customers ship their scooters safely, efficiently, and affordably. Whether you’re sending in your scooter for a tune-up or shipping it to a new location, here are our best tips and tricks to help you save money, avoid hassles, and ensure a smooth shipping experience.

Why Shipping Mobility Scooters Is So Expensive

Mobility scooters aren’t your average package. Their size, weight, and the presence of lithium-ion batteries place them in a special shipping category. Carriers treat these as high-risk or oversized items, which often leads to higher costs.

But don’t worry—we’ve got solutions to help you keep those costs down.

Lithium-Ion Battery Shipping Rules: What You Need to Know

Here’s the golden rule:

Anything with a lithium-ion battery must be shipped via UPS Ground.

This is a federal regulation that applies to all lithium-powered devices. If you’re shipping the frame only, without the battery, you’re free to choose other methods—but for simplicity and reliability, UPS remains our recommended carrier.

Save Big with UPS.com Instead of Going In-Store

Most people don’t realize this, but walking into a physical UPS store is one of the costliest ways to ship a scooter. Here’s how to ship smarter:

• Use UPS.com to get your shipping rates.
• Enter the box dimensions and weight for the most accurate quote.
• Look for a monthly UPS promo code online. These discount codes can save you 15% to 25% on your shipment.
• Avoid paying UPS to box your scooter. They can charge up to $150 just for packaging materials.

If UPS quotes you over $100 for shipping (with our recommended box sizes and weight), contact us at TravelScoot USA. We’ll gladly provide a prepaid UPS Ground label for just $100 if your box is within our guidelines.

Recommended Box Sizes for TravelScoot Models

We have two frame sizes, and shipping them properly is key to keeping costs down and your scooter protected.

TravelScoot Deluxe

• Box size: 36 x 15 x 12 inches
• Best box option: U-Haul “Lamp” box (~$5)

TravelScoot Escape

• Box size: 30 x 15 x 12 inches

Pro tip:

Wrap your scooter in one or two blankets for padding. Do not use packing peanuts, as they create a mess and provide poor protection.

What to Include (and What to Leave Behind)

If you’re shipping your scooter for a general tune-up, you only need to send the base frame. Leave out:

• The seat
• The battery
• The caddy
• The footrests (Escape model only)

Need more comprehensive repairs? No problem—include any parts you’d like us to inspect or service in the same box.

Lithium-Ion Battery Labels: What You MUST Include

If you’re shipping your battery—either by itself or with the scooter—two labels must be visible on the box.

1. UN Number Labels

These are officially called Lithium Battery Mark (UN Mark) labels, regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and International Air Transport Association (IATA).

• If you’re sending just the battery, use the UN 3480 label.

• If you’re sending the battery with the scooter, use the UN 3481 label.

2. “Forbidden for Transport by Aircraft or Vessel” Label

This is officially known as the “Cargo Aircraft Only” label (FAA/DOT compliant). It’s required in addition to the UN label, even if your battery is labeled “AirSafe.”

Reminder: Commercial shipping regulations differ from airline passenger rules. Just because a battery is airline-approved for passengers doesn’t mean it can be shipped via air freight.

For complete lithium battery shipping regulations, refer to this guide from the U.S. DOT’s PHMSA:

Lithium Battery Guidance Document (PHMSA)

Include Instructions and Contact Info

To ensure quick and accurate service, include the following in your box:

• A detailed description of the service or repairs you’d like
• Your full name, phone number, and email address
• Your return shipping address

Without this information, your repair could be delayed or misrouted.

Turnaround Time: What to Expect

Once we receive your scooter, our standard turnaround time is up to five business days. This may vary slightly depending on our current repair queue, but we always strive to return your TravelScoot to you as quickly as possible.

Need help creating a label or have more shipping questions?

Contact us directly and we’ll walk you through the best options for your situation.

TravelScoot USA is here to make shipping and servicing your mobility scooter as easy, affordable, and hassle-free as possible. Use these tips the next time you need to send your scooter and enjoy peace of mind knowing it’s in good hands.

Important Notice:

The information provided in this article is intended for general guidance and informational purposes only. TravelScoot USA makes no guarantees regarding shipping outcomes, carrier rates, or regulatory interpretations. It is the sole responsibility of the shipper to ensure full compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, as well as the specific shipping guidelines of carriers such as UPS, the U.S. Postal Service, and any other third-party logistics providers.

Lithium-ion batteries are classified as hazardous materials and are subject to strict shipping regulations. Shippers must verify current requirements directly with the appropriate regulatory authorities, including but not limited to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), and the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

TravelScoot USA shall not be held liable for any penalties, delays, damages, or legal actions resulting from improper packaging, labeling, documentation, or shipment of mobility scooters or batteries. We strongly advise all customers to conduct their own due diligence and seek expert consultation if needed before shipping any regulated materials.