Freight and Delivery Guide
This is the master delivery guide for large wellness products like hot tubs, saunas, cold plunges, and select massage chairs. Learn how freight delivery works, what “curbside” means, how to plan access, and what to do on delivery day.
Delivery services vary by product and carrier. Always confirm what’s included on your order confirmation. This guide explains common freight practices so you know what to expect.
Most large wellness products ship by freight and arrive on a pallet. Standard freight is typically curbside (end of driveway). Backyard placement often requires professional movers or a crane, depending on access.
1) Delivery types (parcel, freight curbside, white glove)
Smaller items may ship by parcel carrier. Larger items (hot tubs, saunas, cold plunges, some massage chairs) often ship by freight. Delivery level depends on the carrier and the service selected.
| Delivery Type | What it Usually Includes | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Parcel delivery | Drop-off at door/entry; minimal handling | Accessories and smaller products |
| Freight (curbside) | Palletized delivery to driveway/curb; you handle final placement | Hot tubs, saunas, cold plunges, large/heavy items |
| White glove / room-of-choice | Placement inside (where allowed), unpacking; sometimes debris removal | Many massage chairs and select indoor items |
“White glove” services vary by carrier. Stairs, tight turns, and specialty placement may require additional planning or fees.
2) What “curbside delivery” means
Curbside typically means the carrier delivers the pallet to the end of your driveway or the most accessible safe location. It generally does not include moving the product to a backyard, patio, or inside your home.
Usually included
- Delivery to driveway/curb (accessible location)
- Liftgate service when required (to lower pallet)
- Appointment scheduling call/text (varies)
Usually not included
- Backyard placement
- Stairs or indoor placement
- Unpacking/assembly
- Debris removal
3) Access planning (measurements & obstacles)
Access planning is the #1 way to avoid delivery-day surprises. Walk the path from where the pallet can be set down to the final location.
Measure gates, turns, slopes, stairs, and overhead obstacles. If access is tight, consider professional movers or crane placement.
| What to Check | Examples | Why it Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Width | Gates, side yards, doors, hallways | Large items may need more clearance than expected |
| Turns & angles | Corners, fence turns, porch entries | Tight turns can be harder than narrow width |
| Stairs & elevation | Steps, decks, steep slopes | May require additional labor or specialty equipment |
| Overhead obstacles | Tree limbs, awnings, rooflines, wires | Crane placement requires safe overhead clearance |
4) Scheduling & appointment windows
Freight carriers typically schedule delivery once the product arrives at the local terminal. Appointment windows vary by carrier and region.
- Answer carrier calls/texts quickly to avoid delays
- Confirm the delivery address, access notes, and best phone number
- Plan for an adult to be present to sign and inspect
5) Delivery-day checklist
Before the truck arrives
- Clear driveway and access area
- Confirm a safe pallet drop location
- Have a box cutter, gloves, and camera ready
After the pallet is delivered
- Photograph the pallet and packaging from all sides
- Check for holes, crushed corners, or broken bands
- Do not discard packaging until the product is inspected
If you see damage, note it clearly on the delivery receipt (e.g., “box torn,” “crate damaged,” “corner crushed”) and take photos.
6) Inspecting for damage & what to document
Documenting condition at delivery protects you. If there’s visible damage, record it immediately. If damage is discovered after unboxing, take photos and keep all packaging.
- Photos of every side of the packaging and pallet
- Close-ups of any damage and the shipping label
- Notes on the delivery receipt before signing
Damage claims often require the original packaging and clear documentation. Keep everything until the product is fully inspected.
7) Common freight fees (and when they apply)
| Fee Type | When it Applies | Typical Range |
|---|---|---|
| Liftgate | Truck needs a liftgate to lower pallet to the ground | $0 – $150 |
| Limited access | Remote areas, difficult roads, restricted locations | $50 – $250 |
| Residential delivery | Home addresses vs commercial docks | $0 – $150 |
| Inside/white glove | Placement beyond curbside, unpacking, debris removal | $150 – $500+ |
| Re-delivery / storage | Missed appointment or delayed acceptance | $75 – $300+ |
Fee names and amounts vary by carrier and region. When possible, confirm access notes and delivery level in writing.
8) FAQs
Does freight delivery include placement in my backyard or inside my home?
Typically no. Standard freight delivery is usually curbside. Backyard or indoor placement often requires movers or a white glove service.
What should I do if my item arrives with visible damage?
Take photos immediately and note the damage clearly on the delivery receipt before signing. Keep all packaging until the product is fully inspected.
How is freight delivery scheduled?
Freight carriers typically contact you once the shipment reaches the local terminal to schedule an appointment window. Respond quickly to avoid delays.
Should I arrange professional movers or a crane for placement?
If access is tight, there are stairs, or the product must go over fencing or obstacles, professional movers or crane service may be the safest option.
Need help planning delivery access?
If you’re unsure about curbside drop-off, access width, or placement options, reach out and we’ll help you plan ahead.
