I live in Hawaii and have shipped my bike several times to the mainland and back using FedEx ground (it goes by air from Calif to Hawaii, even though it is ground). You'll see why ground is used when you see the cost of shipping a bike box less than 50 lbs either 2 day or overnight to Hawaii. You might get reduced rates if a bike shop ships it for you if they have a commercial account with lower rates. I use a Trico hard case and have never had any damage to my carbon frame with FedEx. It is possible to insure an expensive bike with them shipping ground. I've found that the costs differ when shipping to Hawaii (more expensive) than shipping from Hawaii. It may have to do with the volume shipped each way. So, be sure to check the prices to and from. The last time I shipped my bike from Florida to Hawaii with FedEx it cost me about $400 bucks one way, insured. I also have checked in the Trico case as luggage on the airline, which is cheaper, but I believe riskier for damage. Luckily, I haven't had any airline damage but handling the big bike box in airports, rental cars, etc. is a hassle. I got sick of paying these high costs and recently had a nice Lynskey titanium built with S&S couplers so I can take my bike as regular baggage. Good luck!