We drove from California to Texas last year and all our stuff wouldn't fit in our SUV, so we shipped three bags to my sister in TX. It was only $56 via FedEx Ground, plus they allowed us to lock them and everything arrived in good shape.

Then we went on a cruise and lugged all our bags with us to Europe (2 large, 2 medium and 2 carry-ons each). We paid extra to bring all that stuff, but sure didn't want to lug it back, so while at the Cavalieri Hilton in Rome, we inquired with the Concierge if he could have it shipped back home for us. He ended up using some freight forwarder, who sent it FedEx. It cost way less doing it that way, than just calling FedEx directly. It cost about $400, but it was worth it for the health of our backs...and because it is probably the last time we'll do that.