Buying guide · Shipping
From the warehouse
to your door.
Generators ship differently than anything you have ordered online before. They go freight — on a pallet, on a truck, with a scheduled delivery window. Here is what to expect, from the day you order to the day it arrives.
01 — How long it takes
Lead times, by generator type.
Generators ship direct from the manufacturer to your address. Transit time depends on the model and where stock is held — these are typical windows, not guarantees. We will confirm your specific lead time at order.
Most portable units ship from regional manufacturer warehouses and arrive within a standard freight window. Some smaller models may ship parcel.
In-stock standby units typically leave the manufacturer within 2 – 3 business days and transit 5 – 10 days depending on your location.
Larger or less common configurations may require a production lead time before shipping. We will notify you of the exact window before you confirm the order.
02 — Not a UPS box
How freight delivery actually works.
Most people have never received a freight shipment. It is straightforward once you know what to expect — a little different from a doorstep drop-off.
It arrives on a pallet
Your generator is strapped to a wooden pallet and loaded on a freight truck — not a delivery van. Standard delivery is curbside, meaning the driver brings it to the end of your driveway. They are not required to carry it to the garage or backyard.
The carrier will call you
Before delivery, the freight carrier contacts you to schedule a date and time window. You need to be present to accept the shipment and sign the bill of lading. Make sure your contact number is accurate at checkout.
You need a clear path
Make sure there is room for a freight truck to access your address. A pallet jack is used to unload — a flat, paved surface near the delivery point makes things easier. Let us know at order if your access is unusual.
Missed deliveries cost money
If no one is available when the carrier arrives, redelivery fees apply — typically $75 – 150 per attempt, charged by the freight carrier. Schedule for a time you can commit to.
03 — Delivery day
What happens step by step.
Four things to do when the truck arrives. In this order.
Check the pallet before unloading
Before anything is moved, look at the pallet and packaging for visible damage — crushed corners, punctures, torn strapping. Note anything that looks off.
Open and inspect the unit
Remove enough packaging to see the generator itself. Check for dents, cracks, or anything that looks like it took an impact in transit.
Note damage on the bill of lading
If you find anything — even minor — write it on the delivery receipt before you sign. This protects your freight claim. "Subject to inspection" is not enough — be specific.
Contact us within 48 hours
If there is damage, reach out to us within 48 hours of delivery with photos and your noted bill of lading. We will handle the freight claim on your behalf.
04 — The one thing that matters most
Inspect before you sign.
Do not sign a clean receipt for a damaged unit.
Once you sign the bill of lading without noting damage, the freight carrier considers the delivery complete and accepted. Any damage noted after signing is extremely difficult to claim. Take two minutes to inspect the unit before you put pen to paper — it is the single step that protects your entire purchase.
Questions about your order
Not sure about delivery to your address?
Unusual access, a tight street, a rural route — let us know before you order and we will confirm what to expect with the carrier. No surprises.
Contact us