Shipping Restaurant Equipment
Expert Solutions for Shipping Restaurant Equipment
Fast, reliable, and secure shipping solutions for all your restaurant equipment needs. From ovens to refrigeration units, FreightCenter ensures safe delivery every step of the way. Get a custom quote today and keep your kitchen running smoothly!
In the fast-paced world of food service, reliable and efficient shipping of restaurant equipment is essential. Whether you’re launching a new restaurant, upgrading your kitchen, or relocating, understanding how to safely and efficiently ship restaurant equipment is key to minimizing downtime and ensuring your business runs smoothly.
At FreightCenter, we specialize in providing tailored, secure, and cost-effective shipping solutions designed for the unique demands of the restaurant industry.
Comprehensive Restaurant Equipment Shipping Services
From cooking appliances like ovens and grills to refrigeration units and food preparation tools, we manage the shipment of diverse restaurant equipment. Our experience extends to handling delicate furniture, storage units, and even oversized machinery. Whether it’s a single piece or a full kitchen setup, FreightCenter ensures safe and efficient delivery tailored to your timeline and budget.
How Does Our Shipping Process Work?
We start with a personalized consultation to understand your unique shipping requirements. Our logistics team then identifies the best transportation method, whether it’s Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) for smaller items or Full Truckload (FTL) for larger shipments. We guide you through packaging best practices to minimize risks, and throughout the transport, you can track your equipment in real-time. Final-mile delivery services, like liftgate or inside delivery, are available for convenience.
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 Trust FreightCenter for Shipping Restaurant Equipment?
FreightCenter combines experience, expertise, and a commitment to customer satisfaction to ensure your equipment arrives safely and on time. Our nationwide network of trusted carriers and logistics experts simplifies the shipping process from start to finish. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Industry Experience: Years of handling diverse restaurant equipment shipments.
- Customized Solutions: Tailored services to meet specific shipping needs.
- Reliable Carrier Network: Connections with top carriers for efficient and secure transport.
- Customer Support: Dedicated team available to guide you through every step.
- Tracking & Updates: Real-time shipment tracking for peace of mind.
How to Ship Restaurant Equipment
Preparing restaurant equipment for transport involves several essential steps to ensure the safe and secure transportation of the items. Here is a general guide on how to prepare restaurant equipment for transport:
Clean and Sanitize The Equipment
Before transporting any restaurant equipment, it is essential to thoroughly clean and sanitize it to help prevent the growth of bacteria and maintain the equipment’s condition. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning each specific piece of equipment. Be sure to remove any food debris, grease, or other residues.
Disconnect and Secure Loose Parts
It is crucial to disconnect any removable parts or accessories for specific equipment, such as grills, ranges, fryers, broilers, and ovens, including grates, racks, heating elements, knobs, burners, and any other components that can be removed. Secure these parts separately by wrapping them in protective material or packing them in a separate container.
Empty and Clean Refrigeration and Storage Units
If transporting refrigeration and storage units, ensure they are emptied of any perishable or non-perishable contents. Thoroughly clean and sanitize the interior and exterior of the units, including removing any shelves or removable parts. Allow the unit to dry completely before transport to prevent mold or mildew growth.
Secure Doors and Fastenings
Inspect the equipment to secure all doors, lids, or other fastenings. This includes checking hinges, latches, and locks. Use appropriate tools to tighten or adjust fastenings to prevent movement during transport if necessary. Cover delicate parts with protective padding or bubble wrap, especially for equipment with glass or fragile components.
Disconnect Utilities and Secure Cords
Carefully disconnect the connections following proper procedures for equipment connected to utilities such as gas, water, or electricity. Secure any loose cords or hoses to prevent damage during transport. Use zip ties or cord organizers to keep cables neatly secured and out of the way.
Provide Proper Packaging and Protection
For smaller items or equipment with delicate components, it is advisable to package them in suitable containers or boxes. Use appropriate packing materials such as bubble wrap, foam, or packing peanuts to provide cushioning and protection during transport. Label the containers or boxes clearly to indicate their contents for easy identification. Restaurant equipment should be in boxes strapped to sturdy wooden pallets. Try to ship them in manufacturer boxes.
Cost to Ship Restaurant Equipment
The cost to ship restaurant equipment via freight can vary widely based on several factors. When obtaining shipping quotes, consider the following factors that can influence the cost:
- Distance: The distance between the pickup and delivery locations significantly impacts the shipping cost. Longer distances generally result in higher shipping costs.
- Weight and Size: The weight and dimensions of the restaurant equipment play a crucial role in determining the shipping cost. Heavier and larger equipment may incur higher shipping fees.
- Type of Equipment: Different types of restaurant equipment have varying shipping requirements and freight classes. Larger and specialized equipment may require additional handling or packaging, impacting the cost.
- Shipping Method: The shipping method you choose, such as LTL (Less Than Truckload) or FTL (Full Truckload), will affect the cost. FTL may be more expensive, but it offers the advantage of dedicated space.
- Freight Class: Restaurant equipment is assigned a freight class based on size, weight, value, and fragility. The freight class affects the shipping cost, with higher classes increasing shipping costs.
- Accessorial Services: Additional services like liftgate delivery, inside delivery, residential delivery, and specific delivery time windows can add to the overall cost.
- Insurance: Depending on the value of the restaurant equipment, you might opt for additional insurance coverage to protect against loss or damage during shipping.
- Season and Demand: Shipping costs can fluctuate based on supply and demand. Peak shipping seasons might result in higher prices.
- Market Conditions: Economic conditions and fuel prices can influence shipping costs.
Used Restaurant Equipment Shipping
Whether you need to ship new or used restaurant equipment, FreightCenter can help. We work with many auction companies, auction sites, and wholesalers of used restaurant equipment to offer competitive prices.
Shipping restaurant equipment requires flexible solutions to meet unique demands. FreightCenter offers various transportation options tailored to the size and nature of your equipment, ensuring safe and cost-effective delivery.
For smaller equipment shipments that don't require a full trailer, our LTL service is an efficient and budget-friendly option. It's perfect for items like commercial mixers, smaller refrigeration units, and food preparation equipment.
When shipping large or multiple pieces of restaurant equipment, such as oversized ovens or full kitchen setups, FTL is the most secure option. Your equipment occupies the entire truck, reducing the risk of damage and ensuring faster transit.
If your shipment is too large for LTL but doesn't require a full truck, PTL is the ideal solution. It's a cost-effective option for irregular or bulkier items, such as stacked furniture or multiple cooking units.
For businesses importing or exporting restaurant equipment, we offer international shipping solutions that simplify customs and ensure seamless delivery. From proper documentation to logistics planning, we help ensure your equipment arrives safely across borders.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
Types of Restaurant Equipment We Ship
Grills, Charbroilers, and Sandwich Grills
Grills are appliances used for cooking food over direct heat and come in many types and styles. Electric and gas flat-top grills are two of the more popular types.
Charbroilers and sandwich grills are also commonly used throughout the restaurant industry as they can produce high heat levels and create distinctive grill marks on the food. Charbroilers are either gas-powered or electric. Chicken and hamburgers come to mind when I think about that unique grill flavor we get from our favorite foods. Electric or salamander broilers may be used depending on a chef’s preference.
Sandwich grills are also known as panini presses or sandwich presses. They have two heated plates that clamp down on the sandwich and are a part of delis and cafes.
Commercial Ovens
Ovens are a necessity for most restaurants, and there are various types:
Standard Ovens: Electric or Gas ranges are in most restaurants and sent the most. Ovens also range from coal to wood to solid fuel. Ventless oven ranges are a common type as well. Commercial ovens are typically made of stainless steel, glass, wood, brick, or a combination.
Convection Ovens: Convection ovens have fans circulating hot air throughout the cavity, allowing food to cook more evenly and quickly than in a standard range. They are ideal for baking pastries, bread, and other baked goods.
Combination Ovens: Combination ovens are versatile and can be programmed to perform various cooking functions, including baking, roasting, steaming, and grilling. They are often used in commercial kitchens that need to prepare a wide range of dishes.
Pizza Ovens: Pizza ovens are designed to cook pizzas quickly and evenly. They are often used in pizzerias and other restaurants that serve pizza.
There are many types of Pizza ovens that we ship:
- Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens – Wood is the fuel source and gives the pizza a smokey flavor with crispy crusts.
- Gas Pizza Ovens – Offer consistent heat distribution and precise temperature control.
- Electric Pizza Ovens – Similar to gas ovens in that they offer consistent heat and accurate temperatures.
- Conveyor Pizza Ovens – Popular in fast food pizza chains as the pizza moves on a conveyor belt through a cooking chamber.
- Deck Pizza Ovens – Made of ceramic or stone decks, the pizza is placed for cooking.
- Rotating Deck Pizza Ovens – These ovens have the features of a deck oven with a rotating mechanism for even cooking.
- Countertop Pizza Ovens – Ideal when there is limited space in the kitchen.
- Brick Pizza Ovens – Similar to wood-fired ovens, bricks are heat-retaining material. They can be wood, gas, or electric fired.
- Hybrid Pizza Ovens – Combine different fuel sources and provide flexibility with varying methods of cooking and flavor profiles.
- Portable Pizza Ovens – These are compact ovens used for events, catering, or home gatherings.
Commercial Deep Fryers
In restaurants, several commercial deep fryers are commonly used to prepare fried foods efficiently and consistently. Here are some popular styles:
Countertop Deep Fryers – These compact fryers sit on a countertop for smaller restaurants and kitchens with limited space.
Floor Model Deep Dryers – Floor-standing fryers are larger and needed for higher-volume restaurants. They will have multiple fry baskets to handle more food.
Open Pot Fryers – allow direct access to the frying area and are used for items with batter or coatings that would stick to a fry basket.
Pressure Fryers – These fry foods under pressure and quickly. A certain colonel cooks their fried chicken this way.
Restaurant Refrigerators and Freezers
All restaurants use refrigerators and freezers. The commercial-grade versions of these are huge and heavy. We can help you ship them and save money. Upright models or worktop models can be shipped today using our freight services.
Large-scale walk-in coolers and freezers can be shipped by calling us directly and speaking with a National Account Manager. FreightCenter’s shipping experts can assist with any restaurant equipment shipping special requests.
Ship Restaurant Equipment and Save Money
As a high-volume freight broker with deeply discounted contracts with many of the top freight carriers in the U.S., FreightCenter typically saves our customers 25%, 50%, 75%, or more.
FreightCenter is where the best freight carriers compete for your business. If you need help, FreightCenter’s shipping experts are waiting to help you at 800.716.7608. Start shipping with FreightCenter and get the biggest bang for your shipping dollar.
Shipping Restaurant Equipment FAQ
Q. How can I get a freight quote for shipping restaurant equipment?
To obtain a freight quote, provide details about the restaurant equipment, including weight, dimensions, pickup, delivery locations, and any specific shipping requirements. Freight carriers will then calculate the cost based on this information.
Q. How can I ensure the safe transit of restaurant equipment during shipping?
To ensure safe transit, restaurant equipment should be securely strapped and protected with appropriate padding to prevent damage. Proper packaging, including palletization, is essential, and delicate equipment may require additional cushioning.
Q. Can I get assistance with unpacking and installation of the restaurant equipment upon delivery?
Many specialized freight carriers offer additional services, including unpacking, inside delivery, and basic installation. Discuss these options with the carrier beforehand to ensure a smooth delivery process.
Q. What should I do if my restaurant equipment arrives damaged or missing?
If your restaurant equipment arrives damaged or missing, document the condition with photographs and notify the freight carrier immediately. Follow their claims process to seek compensation for any damages or losses during shipping.
Q. Is shipping insurance necessary for restaurant equipment shipments?
While not mandatory, shipping insurance is highly recommended for valuable restaurant equipment. Insurance provides coverage in case of damage, loss, or theft during transit, offering financial protection for the equipment.
Q. Can FreightCenter handle international shipments?
Yes, we provide both domestic and international shipping services to meet your needs.
Q. What if my equipment is oversized or unusually heavy?
We specialize in heavy haul and oversized shipments, offering tailored solutions to ensure safe transport.
Q. What if my equipment requires special handling?
We coordinate with carriers who specialize in handling delicate or specialized equipment and can arrange additional services like climate control or liftgate delivery.
Q. How long does it typically take to ship restaurant equipment?
Transit times vary based on distance, shipping method, and carrier availability. Our team will provide an estimated timeline when you request a quote.
Q. What should I do if I need to change my delivery details after booking?
Contact our customer support team as soon as possible to update any delivery information. Changes may affect the overall cost and delivery timeline.
3 Advantages of Using FreightCenter for Shipping Restaurant Equipment
Customized Shipping Solutions:
FreightCenter understands that every restaurant equipment shipment is unique. We offer tailored solutions to match the size, weight, and special handling requirements of your equipment, ensuring the most efficient and cost-effective transport option.
Nationwide Carrier Network:
Our extensive network of trusted carriers gives you access to the best shipping options and competitive rates. Whether you’re shipping locally or across the country, we ensure your equipment is handled by professionals with the right expertise.
Real-Time Tracking & Support:
Stay informed throughout the shipping process with our real-time tracking tools. Our dedicated support team is always ready to assist, ensuring you have peace of mind from pickup to delivery.
