Shipping Grills and Grilling Supplies
Something Smells Delicious... and Affordable!
From oversized grills to fragile accessories and fuel components, shipping outdoor cooking equipment takes more than a box and a label. Discover how FreightCenter makes it simple, safe, and cost-effective—so you can ship smarter, not harder.
Grill Shipping Made Easy with FreightCenter
Grills and grilling supplies are large, oddly shaped, and can be delicate or high-value, which makes freight shipping the safest and most reliable option. Whether you’re a backyard BBQ enthusiast, a manufacturer shipping grills to retailers, or a business sending out large grilling supply orders, FreightCenter makes it easy to ship everything from kettles and smokers to propane tanks and accessories—without the stress.
With over 25 years of experience and a 99.1% damage-free delivery rate, we help you avoid common pitfalls like improper packaging, carrier mismatches, and unexpected costs.
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 Grills and Grilling Supplies?
Shipping grills and grilling supplies isn’t just about moving freight—it’s about making sure your product arrives exactly how you sent it: undamaged, on time, and ready to fire up. At FreightCenter, we treat every shipment like it’s our own, and we’re more than just a logistics partner—we’re an extension of your shipping department.
Here’s what makes FreightCenter the go-to for outdoor cooking equipment:
- We specialize in bulky, seasonal, and high-value freight – from backyard smokers to full pallets of grilling accessories.
- We partner with 50+ top-rated carriers to ensure competitive rates and the right equipment for every shipment.
- Need liftgate, white-glove, or residential delivery? We handle the details, so you don’t have to.
- Our real-time quote tool compares rates instantly, saving you time and money.
- Freight experts are on standby to help with packaging, paperwork, hazmat needs, and special handling instructions.
- Repeat shipper or seasonal seller? We can function as your full-service shipping department with scalable solutions.
When you work with FreightCenter, you’re not just booking a shipment—you’re gaining a team that cares about your freight as much as you do.
How to Ship Grills and Accessories Safely
Proper packaging is essential for protecting your grills and grilling accessories during transit. Follow these expert guidelines to ensure damage-free delivery:
For Grills:
- Disassemble When Possible: Remove detachable parts like grates, side tables, and burners to prevent damage during transit. Package these parts separately but within the same shipment.
- Wrap and Protect: Cover the grill body and components with moving blankets, bubble wrap, or foam padding to prevent scratches and dents.
- Use the Right Box: Choose a heavy-duty, reinforced cardboard box or crate that can support the grill’s weight with enough room for padding.
- Fill Empty Spaces: Use packing peanuts, foam inserts, or crumpled paper to eliminate gaps and prevent movement inside the box.
- Seal and Label Properly: Use heavy-duty packing tape and clearly mark the package as “Fragile” and “This Side Up” to guide handlers.
For Accessories:
- Wrap Each Item: Protect metal utensils, tools, and delicate accessories with bubble wrap or foam padding. Use padded envelopes for smaller items.
- Choose Appropriate Packaging: Use sturdy boxes for heavy or sharp accessories and reinforced mailers for lighter items.
- Eliminate Movement: Add sufficient packing material to prevent items from shifting during transit.
- Secure and Mark: Use quality packing tape and label packages appropriately to ensure careful handling.
For bulk shipments, FreightCenter can coordinate LTL freight services to help you save costs while ensuring safe transport.
To create value for our customers by delivering customized shipping solutions for grills and grilling supplies that meet their unique needs, and to fulfill shipping demands—from simple accessory shipments to complex, oversized grill deliveries—with expertise, guidance, and ingenuity.
Less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping is an ideal option for transporting smaller shipments of grills and grilling accessories. By combining multiple shipments from different customers onto one truck, each customer shares the shipping cost. Whether you're shipping a few portable grills, grilling tools, or accessories, FreightCenter’s experts will provide the best prices and the most comprehensive LTL shipping solutions. We’ll help you find the right packaging and carrier options to ensure your grilling equipment arrives safely and on time.
Truckload shipping, also known as full truckload (FTL), is the best choice for larger shipments that require the entire truck's trailer space. If you're transporting heavy or oversized grills, outdoor kitchen setups, or bulk quantities of grilling accessories, FTL shipping ensures your freight is transported efficiently. This option is ideal for shipments exceeding 20,000 pounds or measuring over 12 feet in length, 8 feet in width, or 8 feet in height. We offer competitive pricing for dry van, flatbed, and refrigerated truckloads and can customize solutions for full or partial shipments.
When time is critical, our nationwide expedited trucking services ensure your grills and grilling equipment are delivered fast and securely. Whether you’re shipping a single high-end grill for an upcoming event or restocking a store with essential grilling tools, expedited shipping prioritizes the speed of delivery. This option is perfect for urgent situations, such as last-minute event setups, store restocking, or replacing damaged equipment quickly. FreightCenter’s experts will help you choose the fastest and safest options for your time-sensitive shipments.
Grills and grilling equipment that require specialized handling—such as custom outdoor kitchens, oversized grills, or high-value, luxury models—need extra care during transport. Specialized shipping options are designed for items that require specific handling, equipment, or conditions, such as temperature-controlled transportation or white glove service. FreightCenter partners with top-rated carriers to provide reliable specialized freight services, from custom crating to international shipping. We ensure your high-value or delicate grilling equipment arrives safely and in perfect condition.
Shipping Costs & Transit Times for Grills & Supplies
| Cost Factor | How It Impacts Pricing |
|---|---|
| Size & Weight | Larger grills or multi-boxed shipments increase weight and take up more trailer space, raising the freight cost. |
| Assembly Status | Assembled grills cost more to ship due to size and fragility. Shipping disassembled saves space and cost. |
| Hazardous Materials | Shipping fuel or propane may require hazmat services, which adds compliance costs. |
| Delivery Type | Residential, limited-access, or white-glove deliveries incur additional fees. |
How FreightCenter Helps You Manage Shipping Costs
Carrier Matching Based on Equipment Needs
We pair your shipment with carriers that have the right trailers (flatbeds, liftgates, etc.)—so you never overpay for capacity you don’t need.
Guidance on Packaging to Minimize Dimensional Charges
Our team helps you determine whether it’s more cost-effective to ship your grill assembled or broken down and how to package accessories to avoid oversized fees.
Hazmat Shipping Support
If you’re shipping fuel, propane tanks, or other hazmat items, we’ll connect you with properly certified carriers and help you meet compliance without paying unnecessary premiums.
Accessorial Cost Transparency
From residential delivery to inside placement, we walk you through every potential accessorial and help you avoid or reduce fees with smarter routing and delivery timing.
Real-Time Rate Comparisons
FreightCenter’s quote tool instantly compares rates across multiple carriers, ensuring you get the most competitive pricing available for your specific freight needs.
Shipping Outdoor Kitchens or Built-In Grills? Here’s What You Need to Know
Outdoor kitchens and built-in grills are some of the largest, heaviest, and most delicate pieces of outdoor living equipment you can ship. Unlike portable grills, these units often include stonework, stainless steel finishes, refrigeration components, and gas connections, all of which require extra care during freight transport.
Here’s what to keep in mind when shipping your outdoor kitchen setup:
Disassembly May Be Required
If possible, remove side burners, cabinet doors, countertops, and internal components like grates or drawers. Disassembling reduces the risk of damage and can significantly cut shipping costs by reducing overall dimensions and weight.
Custom Crating Is Highly Recommended
Built-in grill systems are not standard-sized and may include fragile or polished surfaces. FreightCenter can connect you with custom crating and protective packaging partners who specialize in securing modular kitchen units and built-in appliances for long-distance transit.
Flatbed or Specialized Equipment May Be Needed
Due to their size and shape, outdoor kitchens and fully assembled built-in grills may not fit inside a standard freight trailer. We’ll help determine if flatbed, step-deck, or white-glove delivery is the safest and most cost-effective method for your shipment.
No Fuel or Gas Lines in Transit
Make sure to remove propane tanks or disconnect any gas lines before shipping. These components must be shipped separately under hazmat guidelines, and our freight experts can help coordinate compliant transport.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
FreightCenter Is Here to Help You Cook Up a Smooth Shipping Experience
At FreightCenter, we don’t just move freight—we act as an extension of your team. From your first quote to the final delivery, our experts work behind the scenes to handle the logistics, smooth out the bumps, and keep you informed every step of the way. We know how to navigate the heat—so your shipment doesn’t feel the burn.
Need extra care? Have special handling questions? Want to save time on repeat shipments? You’ve got a freight partner who’s already thinking ahead.
Let’s get your shipment on the road. Call (800) 716-7608 or get an instant freight quote now!
Frequently Asked Questions about Shipping Grills
Q. What is the best way to package a grill for shipping?
Disassemble any removable parts like grates, side shelves, and burners. Wrap all parts in protective materials such as bubble wrap or moving blankets, and use a sturdy, reinforced box or crate. Fill empty spaces with packing materials to prevent shifting during transit.
Q. Should I disassemble my grill before shipping?
Absolutely. Removing side shelves, grates, burners, and propane tanks can reduce size, lower shipping costs, and protect delicate components. Disassembled grills are easier to crate, shrink-wrap, or palletize—especially for commercial-grade and built-in grill units.
Q. How do I protect grilling accessories during shipping?
Wrap smaller accessories like utensils, grill covers, or propane attachments in bubble wrap or foam. Place them in sturdy boxes and fill empty spaces with packing material to prevent movement.
Q. What’s the best type of box for shipping grills?
Use a heavy-duty, double-walled cardboard box or a custom wooden crate for larger grills. The packaging should be strong enough to support the grill’s weight and withstand impacts during transit.
Q. How can I protect grills from weather damage during shipping?
Wrap the grill in waterproof materials such as plastic sheeting or shrink wrap. If possible, use water-resistant packaging and avoid exposing the shipment to rain or moisture for extended periods.
Q. Should I choose LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) or FTL (Full Truckload) for shipping grills?
LTL is ideal for smaller shipments or individual grills, while FTL is better for larger, bulk shipments that require an entire truck’s space. The choice depends on the size and volume of your shipment.
Q. How should I label a grill shipment?
Clearly mark the package with labels such as “Fragile,” “This Side Up,” and “Handle with Care.” This will help ensure proper handling throughout the shipping process.
Q. What is the best shipping method for high-value or custom grills?
Specialized or white-glove shipping services are best for high-value grills. These services offer careful handling, custom packaging, and added security to ensure the grill arrives in perfect condition.
Q. How do I ship propane tanks safely with a grill?
Propane tanks are classified as hazardous materials and require specific handling. Most shipping carriers will not transport propane tanks unless they’re empty and properly vented. It’s best to ship tanks separately and follow all carrier guidelines. For more information, you can visit the official U.S. DOT site here.
Q. Should I insure my grill shipment?
Yes, especially for high-value or custom grills. Insurance helps protect against financial loss if the grill is damaged or lost during transit.
Q. Can I ship a pellet grill or smoker through LTL freight?
Yes! Pellet grills, BBQ smokers, and other outdoor cooking equipment can be shipped via LTL freight if properly packaged. If the unit is large or fully assembled, it may be more cost-effective to use a flatbed or FTL option. FreightCenter helps you compare carrier types and choose the best match for your specific grill model and shipment size.
Q. What’s the best way to ship outdoor kitchen equipment?
Outdoor kitchens, built-in grills, and modular cook stations often require white-glove freight services, especially if they’re already assembled or include high-end finishes. FreightCenter offers specialized freight solutions with liftgate service, appointment delivery, and custom crating options for outdoor living product shipments.
Q. Do you help with seasonal freight planning for grilling products?
Yes! Many of our customers are grill retailers, manufacturers, or outdoor product distributors preparing for seasonal surges like spring and summer BBQ season. FreightCenter offers scalable solutions, including bulk LTL, FTL, and warehouse-to-retailer freight options, so your shipments arrive right on time.
Pro Tips for High-Volume Grill Shippers (Retailers, Distributors, and Sellers)
Lock in Better Rates with Freight Contracts or Volume Discounts
If you ship grills regularly—especially during seasonal peaks—don’t rely on spot quotes for every order. FreightCenter can help you negotiate volume-based pricing or set up a contracted freight agreement with select carriers. This ensures rate consistency, guaranteed capacity, and cost savings over time—especially for repeat lanes or national distribution.
Use Cross-Docking to Speed Up Distribution & Lower Storage Costs
If you're shipping grills to multiple locations (stores, fulfillment centers, or customers), consider using cross-docking services through FreightCenter’s carrier network. Instead of paying for warehousing or multiple LTL shipments, your freight is redirected at a terminal and sent directly to final destinations, cutting down on both delivery time and storage fees.
Standardize Packaging & Pallet Configurations for Predictable Pricing
Inconsistent packaging can lead to unexpected reclassifications, handling fees, and delivery issues. Work with FreightCenter to develop standardized pallet dimensions, weight limits, and labeling protocols for all your grill SKUs. This not only helps reduce freight class disputes but also allows carriers to handle your freight more efficiently, improving delivery reliability and reducing damage claims.
