Understanding Additional Shipping Charges

We want to make your ordering experience as smooth as possible. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about how we ship your items, what your shipping costs mean, and why certain charges may apply depending on the size and delivery method of your order.

UPS vs. Freight Shipping: What’s the Difference?

We offer two primary shipping methods depending on the size, weight, and nature of your order:

UPS Ground or Small Parcel Shipping

Ideal for smaller, lighter items like hand tools, diagnostic devices, or accessories.
Typically faster and more affordable for single-box shipments under 150 lbs.
Delivered directly to your door without any special equipment needed.

Freight (LTL or Truck Shipping)

Required for large or heavy equipment such as vehicle lifts, air compressors, tire changers, or bulkier tool cabinets.
Shipped on pallets and delivered by a freight carrier using a semi-truck.
May require special delivery accommodations, especially if you're receiving items at a residential address or do not have a commercial loading dock.

Can I Choose Between UPS and Freight?

In most cases, the shipping method is automatically selected based on the weight, size, and packaging of your item(s). However, if both options are available, you’ll see them displayed at checkout, and you may choose the one that fits your needs and budget.

What Will I See on the Shipping Calculator?

When you go to checkout, our shipping calculator will automatically display the estimated shipping costs for your order. Here’s what you might see:

UPS Ground: A flat rate based on package dimensions, weight, and destination.
Freight Shipment: A rate based on pallet size, weight, distance, and delivery type (residential or commercial).
Liftgate Required (optional checkbox): An additional service fee if you need the freight truck to have a liftgate for unloading.
Residential Delivery Fee: If the delivery address is not a commercial business location with a dock, this charge may apply.

Important: All displayed rates are based on real-time calculations using carrier rates and item data. If you have multiple items, you may see combined shipping options.

Why Are There Extra Charges on Truck Shipments?

Truck (freight) shipments can involve several additional costs due to the nature of delivery. These fees are standard across all freight carriers and may include:

Residential Delivery Fee: Applies if the shipping address is not a commercial location with dock access.
Limited Access Fee: Applies to locations that are harder to reach, like schools, farms, construction sites, or storage units.
Appointment Delivery Fee: If you request a specific time for delivery or require a call ahead, this fee may apply.
Re-delivery Fee: If no one is available to receive the shipment and the carrier must come back.

We work to keep your shipping costs as low as possible while ensuring your equipment arrives safely and efficiently.

What Does “Liftgate Required” Mean?

A liftgate is a mechanical platform on the back of a freight truck that raises and lowers heavy items from the truck to the ground. You may need this service if:

You don’t have a forklift or loading dock.
You’re receiving a large item at a home, small shop, or any location not equipped for freight unloading.

Selecting the “Liftgate Required” option at checkout adds a fee but ensures a smoother delivery experience. If this box is not checked and the carrier determines a liftgate is needed upon arrival, you may be billed separately and experience delivery delays.

Still Have Questions?

If you have questions about shipping, freight requirements, or need help deciding what delivery method is best for you, reach out to our support team before placing your order. We’ll make sure you have all the information you need.