Lobster is one of the most prized and delicious seafood delicacies. However, given that lobsters are predominantly caught along the Northeast coastlines of the US and Canada, enjoying fresh lobster can be challenging if you don’t live near the areas where they are caught. For lobster lovers everywhere, having fresh lobster shipped directly to your door is an excellent option. But exactly how much does it cost to ship lobster? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the factors that impact lobster shipping costs and help you determine what to budget for lobster delivery.
Overnight Shipping Rates
For live lobsters or highly perishable lobster products like fresh meat, overnight shipping is necessary to ensure quality and freshness. Most reputable seafood shippers offer free overnight shipping on orders over a certain dollar value, usually around $100 to $150. On smaller orders that don’t meet the minimum for free overnight shipping, you can expect to pay a flat rate fee in the range of $30 to $50 depending on weight and distance.
Some examples of typical overnight lobster shipping rates
- Small 1-2 lobster order: $35-$50 overnight shipping fee
- 6 lobster tails: $30-$45 overnight shipping fee
- Large 10+ lobster order: Qualifies for free overnight shipping
2-Day Shipping Rates
For frozen lobster tails, lobster meat, and other less perishable products, 2-day shipping may be an option to reduce costs. Expect 2-day shipping rates to be in the $15-$25 range for basic ground service. While it takes longer in transit, the frozen state helps preserve freshness and quality.
Time of Year
Peak seasons like Christmas, Father’s Day, and summer holidays when shipping volumes surge across all carriers, some companies may add small seasonal surcharges of $5-$10 per order. But in general, rates remain fairly steady year round.
Certain types of lobsters like live Maine lobsters do fluctuate in price based on local harvest seasons. But the shipping rates themselves normally don’t change.
Weight and Order Size
The total weight of your order will have some impact on the shipping rate. Heavier packages cost slightly more for the carrier to ship overnight. Very large orders may have overage fees if they exceed size thresholds. To save, order in bulk to qualify for free shipping minimums whenever possible. Or split an order with friends and family in your area.
Shipping Distance
Overnight and 2-day shipping services set standard rates for continental U.S. delivery, regardless if you’re 5 states or 50 states away. But remote areas like Hawaii and Alaska or rural locations may incur additional fees.
Shipping Method
The expected delivery time frame and shipping speed you select will impact the rate. Next-day and 2-day service have different base rates. For the highest urgency, priority overnight shipping ensures delivery by early morning but comes at a premium cost.
Package Handling
Whether you need signed delivery confirmation or can allow driver release without a signature can affect shipping rates. Some shippers include signature service at no extra charge. Holding packages for pickup at FedEx or UPS locations also comes with a small fee typically.
Company Shipping Policies
Delivery rates ultimately depend on each seafood company’s specific shipping policies. Comparing rates between a few reputable shippers for your location can potentially save on shipping costs. Look for those that offer regular free shipping promotions and discounts.
Estimated Shipping Cost Examples
To give you a better idea of real-world lobster shipping rates, here are some estimated examples for different delivery scenarios:
- Live lobster overnight shipment across two states: $35
- 5 lbs frozen lobster tails 2-day ground: $20
- 15 lbs live lobsters overnight from Maine to California: Free shipping
- Lobster gift basket overnight from Florida to Pennsylvania: $45
- Live Christmas lobster order from Massachusetts to Texas: Free over $150 order minimum
Tips for Saving on Lobster Shipping
- Take advantage of free shipping thresholds when available on larger orders.
- Opt for 2-day shipping of frozen products to reduce fees.
- Compare rates between companies and look for coupons and deals.
- Ship to a business address rather than residential to avoid missed delivery.
- Pick up at local FedEx/UPS facility to avoid residential surcharges.
- Split an order with other lobster lovers in your neighborhood.
- Bundle added sides or appetizers to get more value from the shipping cost.
Is Shipping Lobster Worth the Cost?
At the end of the day, only you can decide if having fresh lobster conveniently delivered is worth the shipping expense for your budget and tastes. It is definitely a luxury. But keep in mind you’re paying for more than just the delivery fees. You also get access to incredibly fresh seafood not found locally, plus the convenience of cooked, cleaned and shipped meals ready to enjoy. For special occasions or food lovers, it can certainly be worth the splurge!
Understanding the typical factors that go into lobster shipping rates helps take the surprise out of ordering and makes budgeting straightforward. With the right prep and expectations, you can enjoy fresh lobster from the east coast anywhere nationwide. Let the experts handle the transit logistics while you look forward to an amazing seafood experience delivered right to your door!
Buy Seafood from the Best Maine Lobster Company
The Klenda family has dedicated over 30 years to providing some of the finest seafood. With that kind of passion, its easy to see why weve risen to become the best online lobster delivery company. We deliver fresh lobsters, lobster tails, claws, and meat — to customers nationwide.
Let customers speak for us
Lobster bisque with a bit of lobster meat and white pepper added. Yum…5 Stars! Maine Lobster Bisque w/ Lobster Meat – 16 oz.
Awesome, fresh lobster meat! Definitely a do over. Frozen Lobster Meat
Just wanted to say that I’ve used Main Lobster Now. For several years for our March Seafood party that my friends and I throw every year. This year we bought 78 lobsters. They all show on time and all were alive. The price g was very competitive. We look forward working with Maine Lobster Now for many years to come. Thanks guys we all appyit. We’ve told many people that came to our seafood party where to go for lobster and seafood. FYI PARTY WAS OFF THE CHAIN. 200-250 people showed up. 1.25 lb Live Maine Lobster
A little bit pricey, but worth it if you wanna make her Happy. 2 lb Live Maine Lobster
This is the second time we have ordered from Maine Lobster Now and we will continue!!! The shipping costs are incredible, FREE if you order a certain amount! We vacationed in Maine late last year and am receiving email ads for yall and we are thrilled!! I usually HATE email ads!! Your pricing and shipping are out of this world, but the quality of your products is EXCEPTIONAL!! Thank You are keep sending us more info!!! Fresh Maine Damariscotta & Blue Point Oysters
This was a gift for my folks. They are hard to buy for. They said it was the best lobster they’ve ever had. Love the shipping updates. Good job Maine lobster! 20-24 oz. North Atlantic Lobster Tail
This was our first time buying from you. (We usually buy from another site online) Tried your 24oz Massive Tail for Christmas Dinner and I am impressed! Its bigger then the full size bottle of Champagne! The taste was so buttery and fresh. AND YOU ARE CHEAPER THAN THE OTHER ONLINE SITE! Maine Lobster Now
For Christmas, my sister gave us a gift card for Maine Lobster Now, and we finally redeemed it, ordering two 3 lb. lobsters. My wife and I both grew up in Bar Harbor, so we can’t go too long without lobster. The box arrived at our doorstep in Connecticut the next day, as scheduled. Inside were two male lobsters – alive and tails kicking! With shells a solid dark blue/green, they were among the healthiest lobsters I have ever seen. My only regret was that they did not come packed in seaweed as promised; I love to steam lobsters on a bed of seaweed. Finding MLN is a treasure – we will definitely do more business with them in the future. 3 lb Live Maine Lobster
Perfect for lobster rolls and very fresh Fantini Split Top Brioche Lobster Roll Buns – 6 Pack
This is some of the best lobster mac & cheese I’ve ever had! Lobster Mac & Cheese
I was really skeptical about purchasing something as ultra perishable as live lobster and having it shipped from New England to North Florida. Ever since the other folks with lobster in their name closed the three locations that were within driving distance to my house, there have been no lobster for me. The other seafood restaurants close by either do not have it or they are poorly run and give terrible service. I tried Main Lobster Now and am very satisfied with the result. Seemed a bit pricy at first … but the service, quality of the lobster and overall convenience more than offset that concern. Ill do this again in a month or two. Very Happy Customer! Thank You. 2 lb Live Maine Lobster
Our 1st time ordering. Invited friends over for a special dinner and what a treat! Arrived day of request, and was a hit! The lobsters were packaged fresh and cold. 1.25 lb Live Maine Lobster
Very happy with my purchase of these lobsters, best lobsters i have ever had. So much meat in them and so tasteful. I will use this company again. Also the staff was excellent in answering my questions. I have told several people about your company! 20-24 oz. North Atlantic Lobster Tail
We were in the mountains of Idaho and 3 ft of snow and the UPS driver still delivered our lobsters before the determined time alive and ready to be cooked for our Valentines weekend … We have had lobsters delivered to our home in the valley but to make it up the hill in the snow for Valentines was an amazing feat and we will definitely be ordering lobster from you again thank you very much for the great experience. 2 lb Live Maine Lobster
Dry hoog Maine Littleneck Clams – 12 Count
Discover the story behind our dedication to delivering the freshest, highest-quality seafood in our exclusive USA TODAY feature! Dive into how we bring the best of the coast straight to your table, and learn about the passionate team and sustainable practices that make it all possible.
How American Lobster is Prepared for Shipping
FAQ
Can you send lobster in the mail?
Fresh-caught lobsters should also be “seasoned” in cold seawater holding tanks for a few days to adjust them to a cool shipping temperature. Lobsters are held for a short time in refrigerated tanks with constantly chilled and cycled fresh salt water. This makes them hardier and ready for shipping.
How to pack live lobster for shipping?
Wrapping them in damp packing paper or seaweed provides their bodies with enough moisture to keep them both alive and in good health (essential for a tasty …Jul 25, 2019
How long can lobsters survive during shipping?
It’s best to cook your lobsters the day they arrive, but they can be stored up to two days if needed.Apr 6, 2024
How long will lobsters stay alive in a cooler?
Live lobsters can survive for 24-36 hours outside of water if kept cool, moist, and well-ventilated. Store them in the coldest part of the fridge in a ventilated container, and avoid freshwater, ice, stagnant water, or airtight containers.
What is my Lobster delivery rate?
Your lobster delivery rate is determined by the total cost ordered. Most of our lobster dinner gift packages include free delivery. All perishable products should be refrigerated or frozen (except live lobster) immediately upon delivery.
How much does a live Maine lobster cost?
$ 20.79 – $ 37.29 EA. Live Maine Lobster in 3 choices of size. Priced per lobster. These lobsters are perfect for overnight shipping because they can live up to 36 hours out of the water when kept calm and cool. The world famous live Maine lobster is available in 3 different size categories, Chicks, Quarters, and Halves.
How do you ship a live lobster?
Live lobster shipping requires three key ingredients: Done right, lobsters should be delivered alive and in perfect condition, no matter how far they travel. LobsterAnywhere.com ships lobsters to just about Anywhere in the USA from Nantucket, Massachusetts to as far-away as North Pole, Alaska.
Do you ship lobster to Maine?
After buying and inspecting lobsters from local fishermen, we ship them directly to you. You’ll immediately taste the difference between an average lobster and our lobster — we send only the very best. Unless you live in Maine, finding a genuine, live lobster can be a challenge.
How do I order Maine lobster?
Delivered to Your Door. Maine lobster done right. Preservative-Free, Hormone-Free, Antibiotic-Free. No Junk. Just Lobster. 1. Choose your seafood Select any combination of live, fresh, or frozen seafood. 2. Schedule your delivery Place your order online now with the date you want to receive your seafood. 3. UPS Next Day Air Overnight Shipping
How do I order seafood from just Lobster?
Just Lobster. 1. Choose your seafood Select any combination of live, fresh, or frozen seafood. 2. Schedule your delivery Place your order online now with the date you want to receive your seafood. 3. UPS Next Day Air Overnight Shipping We ship all orders over $150 overnight from Maine for free, or $40 flat rate for all orders under $150. 4.