Freight Shipping Policy
How freight shipping works at Portlandia Electric Supply
Solar panels, palletized kits, batteries, and heavy electrical gear are too big for standard parcel carriers. These orders ship by LTL (less-than-truckload) freight. This page explains what that means for your delivery, in plain English.
What is LTL freight?
LTL freight means your order travels on a shared semi-truck with other shipments, strapped to a pallet. It is the standard, safe way to move heavy and bulky equipment across the country. Unlike a parcel that gets left on your porch, freight is a scheduled curbside delivery.
What freight shipping costs
Checkout shows our standard LTL freight rates by product type. These are flat minimums — the actual carrier cost depends on total weight, distance, and service options, so we confirm the exact freight quote with you after you order. Current checkout minimums:
| Freight rate (shown at checkout) | Minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Accessories – LTL Freight | $195 | LTL only; requoted post-order |
| Inverter – LTL Freight | $229 | Palletized; final quote post-order |
| Panel – LTL Freight (440–880 lb) | $295 | Per shipment, any quantity in band; actual rate quoted post-order |
| Racking – Pallet/LTL Freight | $299 | Custom quoted after order |
| Battery – LTL Freight | $385 | Hazmat surcharge may apply; final quote post-order |
| Panel – Pallet Freight | $395 | Per pallet; quoted after order |
The estimate on our cart page is a ballpark figure based on the weight of your cart — it is not a guaranteed rate. If you want a firm number up front, call us at (888) 876-0007 and we will quote it before you order.
Liftgate service
Freight trucks do not unload like parcel vans. If your delivery location does not have a loading dock or forklift, you will need liftgate service — a hydraulic platform on the truck that lowers your pallet to the ground. Liftgate service is an accessorial fee charged by the carrier and is added to your freight cost.
Residential delivery
Delivering to a home instead of a commercial address with a dock adds a residential delivery fee from the carrier. If you can accept delivery at a commercial address, jobsite with a forklift, or a freight terminal pickup, you can often save money. Call us if you want to arrange terminal pickup.
Delivery appointments
The freight carrier will contact you to schedule a delivery appointment before the truck arrives. Someone must be present to accept and inspect the delivery. Freight deliveries are curbside: the driver lowers the pallet to the ground at the curb or driveway, and moving it further is up to you.
Inspect your delivery before signing
Freight damage must be documented at the moment of delivery to be covered. When your order arrives:
- Count the pieces against the delivery receipt before signing.
- Inspect for visible damage — crushed corners, broken banding, punctured boxes, rattling glass.
- Note any damage or shortage on the delivery receipt before the driver leaves. Write it down even if it looks minor, and take photos.
- If damage is severe, you may refuse the shipment — call us first at (888) 876-0007 so we can advise.
Signing a clean delivery receipt makes damage claims much harder. A quick two-minute inspection protects you. Report concealed damage to us within 5 business days of delivery.
Getting a freight quote
There are two ways to know your freight cost:
- At checkout: add items to your cart and proceed to checkout — freight options for your address appear before you pay. Checkout collects the freight minimum for your product type, and we confirm the exact carrier quote with you after the order.
- By phone: call (888) 876-0007 with your item list and delivery ZIP code, and we will give you a firm quote including any liftgate or residential fees.
Questions?
Freight can feel unfamiliar the first time. Call us at (888) 876-0007 — we ship palletized solar and electrical equipment every day and will walk you through it.