Freight Shipping 101: What to Expect When Ordering Large Fitness Equipment

Ordering large equipment like a Body-Solid functional trainer, a York Barbell squat rack, or even a Dundalk LeisureCraft outdoor sauna is exciting — but the delivery process is different from getting a small package at your doorstep. These items are often shipped through freight carriers, which specialize in moving bulky or heavy goods.

If you’ve never received freight before, the process can feel unfamiliar. This guide will walk you through what to expect before, during, and after delivery so your experience is smooth and stress-free.

What Is Freight Shipping?

Freight shipping is used for items too large or heavy for standard parcel carriers like UPS, FedEx, or USPS. While a set of dumbbells or resistance bands may come in a regular box, larger machines and saunas are delivered by freight.

There are two common types of freight shipping:

• LTL (Less Than Truckload): Your shipment shares space on a truck with other deliveries. Most gym equipment and saunas are shipped this way.

• Full Truckload: Reserved for very large orders where one customer’s items fill an entire truck.

The main difference between freight and ground shipping is that freight requires scheduled delivery, often includes pallets, and needs someone present to accept the shipment.

Before Delivery

Once your order is processed, the freight carrier will contact you to arrange a delivery time. This scheduling step is important because freight drivers don’t just drop items off unattended.

Key things to prepare before delivery:

• Driveway access: Make sure a truck can safely reach your home or facility. Narrow roads or long driveways may require special planning.

• Curbside vs threshold delivery: Most standard freight shipments are curbside, meaning the carrier unloads the pallet at the end of your driveway or nearest accessible point. Threshold delivery (into your garage or front door) may be available at extra cost.

• Signature required: Someone over 18 must be present to sign for the delivery.

Planning ahead ensures you’re ready when the truck arrives.

Day of Delivery

On delivery day, the process typically goes like this:

1. Arrival call: Many drivers call 30–60 minutes before arrival.

2. Unloading: The shipment is lowered to the ground using a liftgate (a platform that raises and lowers pallets).

3. Pallet drop-off: Items are usually left curbside, on a driveway, or in front of the building.

4. Signature: The driver will ask you to sign a delivery receipt confirming you received the order.

Pro tip: Have a second person available to help move boxes or components into your space after the pallet is dropped.

Freight Shipping vs Standard Parcel

Here’s how freight compares to a standard parcel delivery:

After Delivery

Once the shipment arrives, you’ll want to do a quick check before signing.

• Inspect packaging: Look for dents, tears, or holes in the boxes or pallet wrap.

• Document damages: If something looks off, note it on the delivery receipt and take photos. This helps if you need to file a claim.

• Move and unpack: Use a dolly or have help moving larger boxes. Many products like Golden Designs saunas or TAG Fitness weight machines arrive in multiple cartons.

• Keep packaging: Hold onto the boxes and pallet until your equipment is fully set up and working.

This step ensures you’re covered in case of shipping issues.

Common Surprises

Freight shipping is straightforward, but first-time buyers often run into a few surprises:

• Scheduling takes extra time: Unlike parcel carriers, freight requires delivery appointments.

• Packaging is large: Pallets are bulky, so make sure you have space to store and unpack.

• Assembly tools: Most equipment requires basic tools like wrenches or screwdrivers for final setup.

• Curbside delivery: Unless arranged otherwise, carriers don’t move items into your home.

Knowing these ahead of time helps avoid frustration.

Quick Tips for a Smooth Delivery

• Clear the pathway to where you’ll store or assemble the equipment.

• Have a second person ready to help with moving heavy boxes.

• Keep your phone nearby on delivery day for the driver’s call.

• Take photos of the shipment before unpacking.

• Use a dolly or hand truck for easier moving.

• Keep all manuals, bolts, and tools together during assembly.

• Don’t throw away packaging until installation is complete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to unload the equipment myself?

No — the driver will lower the pallet to the ground using a liftgate. However, moving boxes inside or to another area is your responsibility.

What if I’m not home during delivery?

Freight carriers require a signature, so you’ll need to reschedule. Some carriers may charge for missed appointments, so confirm times carefully.

How long does freight delivery take?

Transit times vary, but freight often takes 1–7 business days depending on distance, carrier, and scheduling.

Conclusion: Freight Shipping Made Simple

Freight shipping may sound intimidating, but once you know what to expect, it’s straightforward. Large fitness products like Body-Solid strength machines, York Barbell racks, TAG Fitness trainers, or saunas from Dundalk LeisureCraft and Golden Designs arrive safely through freight carriers every day.

With a little preparation — clearing space, scheduling ahead, and having help available — your delivery will go smoothly.

At Primal Fitness, we help customers understand the process so there are no surprises. From strength machines to saunas, freight shipping is just part of bringing big equipment into your home or facility. Once everything’s set up, you’ll be ready to enjoy the equipment for years to come.