How to Receive and Unpack Your Work Van Equipment Freight Delivery
Larger van and truck equipment orders may arrive by freight, with boxes secured to a pallet. Receiving a pallet is different from accepting a small parcel: you need a plan for unloading, inspecting, and moving the equipment.
Confirm delivery services before shipment and have the right equipment and help ready for arrival.
Plan How the Pallet Will Reach the Ground
Tell us whether your delivery location has a suitable loading dock or forklift. If it does not, ask about liftgate service before your order ships.
A liftgate lowers eligible freight from the truck to ground level. Confirm that the shipment’s dimensions and weight are suitable for the service and that the delivery location is accessible.
| Receiving Location | What to Arrange | What to Confirm |
|---|---|---|
| Business With a Loading Dock | Suitable receiving equipment and available staff. | Dock access, receiving hours, and unloading responsibilities. |
| Business With a Forklift | An appropriately rated forklift and trained operator. | Truck access, pallet dimensions, and shipment weight. |
| Home or Business Without Either | Discuss liftgate service and ground-level handling. | Service availability, fees, and where the pallet will be placed. |
| Location With Restricted Access | Review the delivery arrangement with us and the carrier. | Road access, space, surface conditions, and any site restrictions. |
Liftgate service is curbside unloading. It does not include moving equipment into your home, shop, garage, or van. Arrange help and suitable equipment for that next step. Additional service fees may apply.
Prepare Before Delivery Day
- Review tracking: Check your shipping email and carrier updates.
- Coordinate the appointment: Confirm the carrier’s delivery window and keep your contact details current.
- Clear the receiving area: Provide space away from traffic for inspection and handling.
- Arrange help: Plan around the actual package weights and dimensions rather than assuming one person can unload them.
- Confirm responsibilities: Do not assume the driver will provide extra unloading assistance.
An appointment helps coordinate arrival; it does not supply unloading equipment or additional services.
Inspect the Shipment Before Signing
Check the pallet, packaging, and accessible merchandise for damage. Look for crushed boxes, torn wrapping, exposed parts, or a shifted load. Compare the shipment with the delivery paperwork and photograph any concerns.
Record visible damage or shortages on the delivery receipt before signing. For excessive damage, follow our shipping guidance on refusing the shipment. Contact us promptly, and retain packaging and paperwork for any damage review.
Read our freight delivery and shipping policy →
Watch Our Pallet Unpacking Overview
Use this video as an introduction alongside the updated handling guidance below. Packaging and unloading arrangements vary by order.
Unpack Only After the Load Is Stable
- Start with a supported pallet. Arrange safe unloading before opening the shipment. Do not climb into the trailer or work at its edge without an agreed, safe receiving procedure.
- Assess the packaging. Straps and wrapping may be holding shifted boxes in place. If the load is leaning or unstable, get qualified handling assistance before releasing restraints.
- Use suitable tools and protection. Steel banding can spring back when cut. Use a purpose-made cutter suitable for the banding, appropriate gloves, and eye protection. Keep people clear of the recoil path.
- Remove packaging in a controlled sequence. Follow the packaging and tool instructions. Do not pull boxes from beneath tensioned straps or loosen a stack by rocking it.
- Move manageable items. Use suitable handling equipment or assistance for heavy or awkward boxes. Keep the remaining stack stable.
- Clear sharp waste. Collect cut banding and packaging promptly so they do not become cutting or trip hazards.
If you lack the correct tools or unloading arrangement, contact us or the carrier for options rather than improvising.
Freight Delivery FAQs
Do I need a liftgate for residential delivery?
If you do not have suitable unloading equipment, discuss liftgate service before shipment. Availability depends on the freight and delivery location.
Will the driver carry the equipment inside?
Do not assume inside delivery is included. Liftgate service provides curbside unloading; you remain responsible for moving the products into your property.
What if I do not have a banding cutter?
Arrange a suitable tool or qualified help. Do not try to pull boxes loose beneath tensioned straps.
What should I do if I discover damage after unpacking?
Photograph the damage, keep the packaging and delivery paperwork, and contact us promptly for the applicable reporting process.
Confirm Your Delivery Plan Before Shipment
Tell us about your receiving location, available unloading equipment, and any access restrictions. Have your order number ready so we can help review the delivery requirements.
Call (800) 533-7722 Email Your Delivery Questions