Restaurant Auction Shipping Calculator and Guide
Restaurant Equipment Shipping Guide & Cost Calculator
Master Restaurant Equipment Shipping
Save hundreds on shipping costs with our comprehensive guide and free calculator
🚚 Shipping Cost Calculator
Get instant estimates for your restaurant equipment shipping
📦 Your Shipping Estimate
Understanding Shipping Methods
- Smallwares and accessories
- $15 boxing fee per box
- Automatic shipping available
- 1-5 business days delivery
- Large equipment
- $50 pallet wrap fee
- Freight quote required
- 3-7 business days delivery
- Complete kitchen outfitting
- Volume discounts available
- Dedicated truck service
- Direct delivery route
Shipping Cost Breakdown
| Equipment Type | Typical Method | Base Cost Range | Additional Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smallwares/Accessories | FedEx Ground | $25-75 | $15 boxing |
| Countertop Equipment | FedEx/Small Freight | $75-200 | $15-30 packaging |
| Undercounter Refrigeration | LTL Freight | $200-400 | $50 pallet |
| Reach-In Coolers/Freezers | LTL Freight | $300-600 | $50 pallet |
| Cooking Equipment (Ranges, Ovens) | LTL Freight | $250-500 | $50 pallet |
| Dishwashers | LTL Freight | $275-450 | $50 pallet |
| Walk-In Coolers | Flatbed/Special | $800-2000 | Custom quote |
⚠️ Important Shipping Considerations
- Items not picked up on scheduled day may auto-ship if eligible
- Storage fees apply after removal day unless shipping arrangements have been made
- Refrigeration must sit upright 48-72 hours before plugging in
- We cannot ship to PO Boxes - street address required
- Orders over $500 require signature on delivery
Step-by-Step Shipping Process
📋 For Items You're Shipping
- Win Your Auction - Receive invoice via email
- Contact PCI Same Day - Call or email to arrange shipping
- Get Preliminary Quote & Pay Prep Fee - Receive pallet count estimate, pay $50/pallet prep fee
- Items Enter Shipping Queue - Your items are palletized and prepared
- Receive Final Quote - Get actual freight quote (valid for 7 days)
- Approve & Ship - Approve quote, receive tracking when shipped
Freight Shipping Options
Using PCI's Shipping Service
- Competitive rates through our carrier network
- Professional palletizing and wrapping included
- Insurance options available
- Tracking provided automatically
- Support for damage claims if needed
Arranging Your Own Freight
- Email Bill of Lading to appropriate PCI division
- Schedule pickup during business hours
- Carrier must have liftgate if no dock available
- You handle all shipping arrangements and issues
- No packaging services provided
💡 Pro Tips for Lower Shipping Costs
- Bundle multiple items on same pallet when possible
- Ship to commercial address with dock to avoid fees
- Be flexible on delivery timeframe for better rates
- Consider picking up smaller items if local
- Ask about volume discounts for multiple pallets
Damage Prevention & Claims
🔍 Receiving Your Shipment
CRITICAL: To protect your investment and ensure claim eligibility:
- Inspect shipment BEFORE driver leaves
- Note ANY damage on delivery receipt
- Take photos of damage immediately
- Keep all packaging materials
- Contact PCI within 1 business day
Important: Signing clean receipt = accepting full responsibility for condition
Additional Services Explained
| Service | What It Includes | Typical Cost | When You Need It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liftgate | Hydraulic platform lowers items to ground | $30-150 | No dock or forklift available |
| Inside Delivery | Driver brings items inside first door | $100-200 | Can't manage curbside delivery |
| Call Before Delivery | 24-hour notice with 4-hour window | Often included | Need to schedule receiving |
| Residential Delivery | Delivery to home address | $50-100 | Non-commercial destination |
| Custom Crating | Built-to-spec protective crating | $100-500 | Fragile or odd-shaped items |
International Shipping
Shipping to Canada
We can ship to Canada with additional requirements:
- Customs broker required (you arrange)
- Commercial invoice preparation
- Additional documentation fees apply
- Extended transit times (7-14 days)
- Duties and taxes paid by receiver
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a shipping quote before bidding?
While we cannot provide exact quotes until we have packaged dimensions and weight, you can use our calculator above for estimates. Check manufacturer specs online for weights and use listed dimensions in the auction.
What if I can't pick up on removal day?
Contact us immediately to arrange shipping or storage. Storage fees ($10-50/day) begin after removal day. Small items may auto-ship to your registered address.
Do you offer local delivery?
Yes! PCI local delivery is available in most areas. Items are delivered and placed outside your location. Contact your division for a delivery quote.
Can I use my own shipping account?
Yes, you can arrange your own freight pickup. Email your Bill of Lading to authorize release. Note that no packaging services are provided for customer-arranged shipping.
Ready to Ship Your Restaurant Equipment?
Contact our shipping specialists for personalized assistance
📞 East Coast: 717-945-3986
📧 Email: shipping@pciauctions.com