The cheapest way to send luggage to another state in 2026 is usually through ground shipping services like UPS Ground or FedEx Ground, particularly if you pack your items in a sturdy cardboard box rather than a soft-sided suitcase. Shipping a box often avoids the "additional handling" surcharges that carriers apply to unboxed luggage. For those moving multiple bags, specialized luggage shipping companies like LugLess often provide discounted rates by leveraging high-volume contracts with major couriers. Another "budget hack" is using Amtrak Shipping or Busfreighter (Greyhound), which can be significantly cheaper for heavy items, though you may need to drop off and pick up the luggage at a station. While checking a bag on your flight is sometimes cheaper if you have a "free bag" credit card perk, for most travelers, pre-shipping via a ground service remains the most cost-effective way to avoid the sky-high "overweight" fees charged at the airport.