Shipping large orders of park benches requires careful planning and reliable logistics partners. For commercial-grade benches, which are often heavy and bulky, standard parcel carriers are not an option. The process typically involves freight shipping via LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) or FTL (Full-Truckload) carriers.
The first step is proper packaging. Benches are usually disassembled when possible. The metal or wooden frames are wrapped and secured to pallets, while individual slats are bundled together. This minimizes the shipment's volume and protects the components from damage during transit. Heavy-duty stretch wrap and corner protectors are essential.
Next, you must choose the right freight service. LTL is cost-effective for orders that don't fill an entire truck, while FTL offers dedicated service for very large shipments. You'll need to provide the carrier with accurate dimensions and weight for each pallet. It's crucial to work with a freight company experienced in handling oversized or heavy items.
Delivery is the final phase. Most freight shipments are delivered to a commercial loading dock. If your site lacks a dock, you must arrange for a liftgate service and potentially a forklift or pallet jack for unloading. Be sure to inspect the shipment immediately upon arrival and note any damage on the Bill of Lading before signing.
Factors like distance, freight class, and required delivery speed will influence the final cost. Planning ahead and communicating clearly with your supplier and freight carrier is the key to a smooth delivery for your large order of park benches.