What shipping methods do you offer?
When shipping large solar products (e.g., batteries, PV panels, inverters) within the U.S., several logistics options are available, each with different costs, transit times, and service coverage. Below is a detailed comparison and recommendations for selection.
- Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) Freight
Best for:
Single or multiple large items (e.g., solar batteries, mounting systems) that don’t fill an entire truck.
Cost-effective shipping with moderate transit times (3–7 days).
Key Features:
Charged by space/weight—ideal for small to medium shipments.
Delivers to commercial addresses (warehouses, job sites) or residences (may incur extra fees).
Forklift unloading available (advance notice required).
Major Carriers:
FedEx Freight
UPS Freight
XPO Logistics
Old Dominion (ODFL)
- Full Truckload (FTL) Freight
Best for:
Large bulk orders (e.g., full pallets of PV panels or containerized inverters).
Direct trucking to avoid handling delays.
Key Features:
Charged per truckload—ideal for large-scale projects (commercial/industrial installations).
Faster transit (2–5 days), with scheduled delivery windows.
Requires unloading equipment (e.g., forklift).
Carriers:
J.B. Hunt
Schneider National
Local trucking companies (negotiable rates)
- Last-Mile Delivery
Best for:
Residential or small business deliveries (e.g., rooftop solar systems).
Additional services like in-home placement or installation support.
Key Features:
Focused on local/regional coverage (within cities).
“White-glove” services available (inside delivery, unpacking, installation).
Higher cost, charged per item/service level.
Providers:
Ryder Last Mile
uShip (price comparison platform)
Local specialized carriers
- Customer Pickup
Best for:
Customers near warehouses or local contractors.
Urgent orders or zero-shipping-cost preference.
How It Works:
Provide warehouse locations (e.g., TX, CA hubs).
Requires appointment and own loading equipment (e.g., forklift, truck).
Advantages:
$0 shipping, same-day pickup possible.
Eliminates transit damage risks.