Building and Installation Materials Shipping
Ship Your Building and Installation Materials with Confidence
Need to move drywall, insulation, or installation tools? FreightCenter connects you with trusted carriers and expert support to ship construction materials safely, on time, and within budget.
Whether you’re sending drywall to a construction site, cabinets to a home improvement store, or heavy equipment to a contractor’s yard, shipping building and installation materials come with unique demands. We know because we’ve been right there with customers trying to coordinate deliveries to remote locations, job sites with tight access, or warehouses with strict dock schedules.
At FreightCenter, we help you ship the materials that keep your projects moving, regardless of how bulky, fragile, or varied the load may be. You don’t have to be a shipping expert to get it done right. That’s what we’re here for.
Thousands of businesses trust FreightCenter to move their freight faster, smarter, and cheaper! From unbeatable rates to top-notch service, our customers are raving about their shipping success.
See why they keep coming back!
Award-Winning Service, Trusted by Shippers Everywhere!
- 2021, 2017 & 2016 Food Logistics’ Top Green Providers
- 2021 & 2018 Supply & Demand Chain Executives’ Pros to Know: Matthew Brosious
- 2020 & 2019 Top Food Logistics’ 3PL & Cold Storage Provider Award
- 2020 & 2019 Business Observer’s Top 500 Companies on the Gulf Coast
- 2020 & 2017 SmartWay® Transport Partner
- 2020 & 2017 Food Logistics’ Champions: Rock Stars of the Supply Chain
- 2020 Best of Palm Harbor Awards for Local Businesses
- 2017 Green Supply Chain Award from Supply & Demand Chain Executive
- 2017 Tampa Bay Business Journal Heroes at Work
- 2016, 2015, & 2012 Food Logistics Top 100 Software and Technology Providers
- 2013 Tampa Bay Business 100 by Tampa Bay Business Journal
- 2013 Top 100 Great Supply Chain Partners by SupplyChainBrain
- 2012 TIA Samaritan Award Honorable Mention
- 2012, 2011 & 2010 TBBJ Fast 50 Recipient
- 2013, 2011, & 2010 Diversity Business Top Businesses
Why Choose FreightCenter for Shipping Building Materials?
We’re not just a freight broker. We’re a partner in getting your job done. Contractors, developers, retailers, and homeowners trust FreightCenter because:
- We know construction timelines matter.
- We work with top-tier carriers that handle building materials on a daily basis.
- We offer human help, not just booking tools.
- We make multi-pallet and multi-stop shipments easier.
- We adjust to your project’s evolving needs.
You focus on the build. We’ll focus on the freight.
How to Package and Prepare Building Materials for Freight
Shipping building and installation materials require extra care. These items often include:
- Drywall, plywood, and sheetrock
- Insulation materials
- Roofing tiles and shingles
- Cabinets, doors, and fixtures
- Flooring materials like tile or laminate
- Sinks, tubs, and large hardware
- Screws, anchors, brackets, and installation tools
Packaging Tips:
Bundle tightly. Use banding straps and protective wrapping (such as plastic or shrink wrap) to secure and weatherproof your load.
Palletize when possible. For smaller or boxed materials, stack neatly on pallets and secure with stretch wrap.
Use edge protection for materials like sheetrock and glass panels, corner protectors, and foam sheets to prevent breakage during handling.
Label clearly. Indicate fragile or non-stackable items to prevent damage.
At FreightCenter, we don't just move freight. We help move your project forward. Whether you're managing a residential build, a commercial installation, or a tight construction schedule, we understand the critical importance of your materials. That's why our freight solutions are designed around your timelines, cargo specs, and budget because no two building jobs are the same.
Need to ship smaller loads like boxes of fasteners, pallets of insulation, or stacked tile? Our LTL shipping services are perfect for jobs that don't need a full truck. FreightCenter pairs you with the best carriers for your load, helping you save money while keeping your supply chain flowing smoothly.
For bulk shipments of lumber, drywall, metal framing, or roofing materials, FreightCenter offers full and partial truckload options. We work with top-tier flatbed and dry van carriers to ensure your materials arrive at the job site securely and on time, regardless of the scale of your build.
Are you running behind schedule or need an urgent restock? We've got your back. Our expedited freight team specializes in delivering high-priority building and installation materials quickly, whether it's a critical load of sheathing or a last-minute delivery of doors and trim.
Some items, such as glass panels, prefabricated walls, or heavy beams, can't be shipped with just any carrier. FreightCenter offers tailored, specialized freight solutions with white-glove service, liftgate options, and international coordination. From job site to job site or across the globe, we help your materials arrive ready for installation.
Estimated Shipping Costs and Transit Times
| Material Type | Estimated Cost (Domestic) | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| Pallet of Drywall | $250 – $400 | 2–5 business days |
| Cabinetry (LTL) | $150 – $300 | 2–7 business days |
| Full Truckload Tile | $1,200 – $2,000+ | 3–6 business days |
| Insulation Rolls | $180 – $350 | 2–5 business days |
Note: Rates vary based on weight, distance, accessorial services, and fuel surcharges. Use our quoting tool for accurate pricing.
How to Ship Building and Installation Materials to Remote or Island Destinations
Shipping building and installation materials to remote or island locations comes with unique challenges, including limited carrier availability, extended transit times, and strict import regulations. Whether you’re supporting a construction project, supplying materials to a contractor, or preparing for a remote build, advance planning is key to ensuring your materials arrive safely, on time, and within budget.
Islands typically rely on air or sea freight, and bulky items like lumber, drywall, foam boards, or roofing shingles require careful coordination to meet carrier requirements. Freight forwarding services can consolidate shipments, reduce costs, and help ensure compliance with international and local regulations. Weather delays and seasonal access limitations are also common in remote regions, making early scheduling and a dependable logistics partner essential.
To protect your materials from moisture, salt exposure, and handling damage, use palletized or crated packaging, weatherproof wrapping, and clear labeling such as “Keep Dry” or “Do Not Stack.” All necessary documentation—including bills of lading, commercial invoices, and any import permits—must be completed accurately to avoid customs delays.
FreightCenter streamlines the shipping process with access to trusted air, sea, and ground freight carriers. From optimizing costs to navigating customs and coordinating complex delivery schedules, we simplify the logistics of getting your building materials where they need to go. Get a free freight quote today and let us help you build without boundaries.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
FreightCenter Will Build Your Logistics Chain from the Ground Up!
FreightCenter understands the importance of delivering your building and installation materials safely and on time. With over 25 years of experience in the logistics industry, we are committed to delivering the best shipping experience while keeping your costs low. We partner with over 50 carriers nationwide, allowing us to offer discounted rates that you won’t find anywhere else. Our tailored solutions include expedited shipping, white-glove services, and specialized freight options, ensuring that your lumber, drywall, and other materials arrive in perfect condition.
For added value, repeat customers can earn points for exclusive rewards every time they ship with us!
Ready to ship your mats? Our expert agents are here to help you find the best shipping solution for your needs. Get a free freight quote using our online tool, or call us at (800) 716-7608 today!
Frequently Asked Questions About Shipping Building and Installation Materials
Q. What types of building materials can be shipped via freight?
Commonly shipped materials include lumber, drywall, insulation, roofing shingles, metal framing, tile, cement, adhesives, sealants, and prefabricated components. Most non-perishable building supplies are suitable for freight.
Q. Is it cheaper to ship building materials by freight than by using a moving or delivery company?
Yes. Freight shipping, especially when palletized or crated, is often more cost-effective than local delivery services—particularly for bulk materials or long-distance construction projects.
Q. What is the best way to package building materials for freight shipping?
Materials should be palletized, crated, or bundled, depending on the type. Use moisture-resistant wrapping, edge protection for fragile items like drywall, and strong strapping to prevent shifting.
Q. Can I ship multiple types of building materials in the same shipment?
Yes. You can consolidate different types of materials—like lumber, insulation, and hardware—on one pallet or in one truckload, provided they’re packaged and labeled properly for safety and handling.
Q. Are there size or weight limits for shipping building materials?
Freight shipments can accommodate large and heavy items, but LTL shipments typically max out around 12 feet in length and 5,000 lbs per pallet. Oversized items may require flatbed or specialized freight services.
Q. What’s the difference between LTL and full truckload for building materials?
LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) is ideal for smaller shipments that don’t fill a trailer. FTL (Full Truckload) is better for large, heavy, or high-volume shipments of materials where space and security are critical.
Q. Can I ship building materials to residential job sites?
Yes, but residential deliveries may incur extra fees and require liftgate service. It’s often more cost-effective to ship to a commercial address or freight terminal for pickup.
Q. What’s the best way to ship fragile building items like tiles or glass panels?
Q. Can building materials be shipped internationally?
Yes, FreightCenter can help coordinate international shipments of construction materials via air or ocean freight, with customs documentation and compliance support included.
Q. How far in advance should I schedule my freight shipment?
For standard freight, schedule at least 2–3 business days in advance. For remote locations, large loads, or time-sensitive shipments, plan ahead by a week or more to ensure availability and delivery timing.
Q. How do I protect materials from weather during shipping?
Use weatherproof shrink wrap, tarps, and sealed pallets or crates. For sensitive materials like insulation or drywall, indoor storage during transit or enclosed trailers may be necessary.
Q. Are there any materials that are restricted or require special handling?
Yes. Some adhesives, solvents, or treated wood products may be classified as hazardous materials and require hazmat-certified carriers. Always check the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for compliance needs. Be sure to also comply with all DOT and EPA regulations when shipping Hazmat.
Q. How does FreightCenter help with building material shipments?
FreightCenter connects you with top-rated carriers, helps you choose the right shipping method, ensures your shipment is compliant and well-packaged, and supports you from quote to delivery.
3 Actually helpful Tips for Shipping Building Materials
Bundle Long Items Like Trim and Pipe to Avoid Oversize Charges
Materials like baseboards, PVC pipe, and metal trim often exceed standard LTL length limits (usually around 8–12 feet). Carriers may apply costly oversize fees for these items if shipped loose. Instead, bundle them securely together, label the total length clearly, and if possible, coordinate with a carrier that allows overlength freight without penalty—it can save you hundreds in fees.
Use Layered Pallets for Mixed Materials to Maximize Efficiency
If you’re shipping different materials—like bags of mortar, rolls of insulation, and boxes of tools—stack the pallet with heaviest items on the bottom, midweight in the middle, and lightest or fragile items on top. This reduces the chance of crushing and eliminates the need to split into multiple pallets, which can increase your freight class and cost. You’ll also reduce handling time at both ends of the shipment.
Ask About Carrier-Specific Construction Site Delivery Protocols
Some freight carriers have specific rules for jobsite deliveries, such as requiring flat, paved surfaces or extra personnel for unloading. Failing to meet these criteria can result in unexpected charges or redelivery fees. To avoid this, ask upfront about the carrier’s jobsite delivery requirements, and consider shipping to a local terminal or nearby commercial address if the site access is limited.
