Freight & Heavy Item Shipping
Heavy and oversized items — solar panels, inverters, batteries, generators, racking systems — require freight shipping. Here's what to expect.
Delivery Timeline
Standard delivery: 7-10 business days nationwide
PowerLink Pro members: Same-day order processing and shipping
Freight items: 5-10 business days depending on destination
All delivery times are estimates and are not guaranteed
Freight Quotes Are Estimates
All freight quotes are estimates until confirmed by the carrier. Actual freight charges may vary based on final weight, dimensions, accessorials, and carrier rates. PES Supply works with Portlandia Logistics and multiple carriers to find the best rates.
Carrier-Billed Accessorials
The following charges may be billed by the carrier directly to the customer:
Residential delivery surcharge
Liftgate service fee (for items over 150 lbs without a forklift/dock)
Limited-access delivery fee (schools, construction sites, rural, ferry-only)
Appointment / redelivery fee
Detention / storage fees (if unloading is delayed beyond 2 hours)
Inside delivery (not standard — must be requested and quoted separately)
Re-consignment / address change after dispatch
Curbside Delivery Only
Standard freight delivery is curbside only. The driver will lower product to the curb or end of the truck. The driver will not:
Move product into a driveway, garage, backyard, or inside a building
Carry product up or down stairs
Remove product from the pallet or packaging
Wait beyond standard delivery time
The customer or installer is responsible for moving product from curbside to the installation location. Please plan to have adequate personnel or equipment on site for unloading.
Lithium Battery & Hazmat Shipping
Class 9 Hazmat Classification
Lithium batteries are classified as Class 9 hazardous materials by the US Department of Transportation. Hazmat surcharges apply and are typically billed per package.
Ground vs Air Restrictions
Most lithium battery products are restricted to ground shipping. Air/expedited shipping may not be available for all battery products. Specific carriers may be required for lithium battery shipments. Do not request expedited shipping on batteries without confirming carrier capabilities.
Freight Trigger at 4+ Batteries
Orders of 4 or more batteries may automatically ship via freight (pallet) rather than ground parcel. This is due to weight, hazmat classification, and carrier restrictions on package quantities.
Geographic Restrictions
Hazmat shipments cannot be sent outside the continental US without specialized certifications. Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and international shipments require custom quotes and may not be possible for all battery products.
Battery Returns
Battery returns must be shipped on a pallet with proper hazmat packaging. Original packaging is required or a packaging fee may apply. Do not promise simple return shipping on batteries — hazmat return logistics are complex and costly.
Generator Shipping
Fueled generators cannot be shipped back. Federal regulations prohibit transport of fueled/oiled equipment. Do not add fuel or oil if you may need to return the generator.
Generators are heavy freight items. Most standby generators require freight shipping with liftgate.
Residential delivery requires appointment. Someone must be present to receive and sign for generator delivery.
HVAC Equipment Shipping
HVAC equipment ships via freight. Mini-splits, condensers, furnaces, and heat pumps require freight shipping.
Refrigerant handling requires EPA certification. Only licensed HVAC contractors should open refrigerant lines.
Compatibility is customer's responsibility. Verify ductwork compatibility, electrical requirements, and code compliance before ordering.
Delivery Inspection & Damage Claims
Inspect before signing. Note any damage, shortage, or discrepancy on the bill of lading while the driver is present. Take photos of any damage.
Cosmetic damage: Accept delivery and note damage on the receipt — you may receive a settlement from the carrier.
Severe damage: Refuse the damaged item only. Take photos.
Concealed damage: Report within 24-48 hours of delivery. Do not wait days or weeks.
Clean signature = customer liability: If you sign without noting damage, the carrier may deny claims.
No-signature delivery: If delivery is left without a signature, inspect within 24 hours and report any issues immediately.