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What is LTL Freight Delivery?

LTL Freight is a shipping method used to move goods that don't require a full truckload. LTL Freight is also more efficient in terms of delivery time, as it can be delivered directly to the customer's address. It is an ideal shipping option for businesses reviving large shipments ground carriers cannot deliver. Watch the video below to learn more about Less Than Truckload shipping and your obligations when accepting this kind of freight delivery.


As opposed to conventional shipments by ground carriers, the driver will not be responsible for unloading the truck. Therefore, common carriers ask that one of the three methods of unloading listed be accessible at the delivery address, which includes a loading dock, a forklift, or a liftgate service. If none of these are available and you would like to add a liftgate service, please get in touch with our customer service team ahead of the delivery. Drivers will wait up to 15 minutes for you to examine the exterior of each shipment. During this inspection, if you detect any tears, gouges, punctures, scrapes, or crush marks, write "Damage and Refuse" next to the line item on the delivery receipt. If you find a unit to be damaged after it has been initially delivered, you must report it within three days. Before moving the unit, take pictures of the damage.

On LTL Freight, You are responsible for:

  • Unloading the truck with 1 of the 3 options (loading dock, a forklift, or a liftgate service)

  • Bringing the shipment into your location

  • Inspecting shipment for up to 15 minutes looking for damaged or missing items before signing carrier’s delivery receipt

  • Noting damaged or missing items on the carrier's delivery receipt

  • Reporting concealed damage within 3 days.

If you do not note these issues in any way on the delivery receipt, RestaurantSupply.com cannot guarantee any compensation for damaged or missing items. By signing the delivery receipt without declaring these exceptions, you are stating that you have received your shipment and everything is in acceptable condition, therefore taking ownership of the goods. Upon inspection, if any piece of the shipment is damaged or missing:

  • Note damage or missing items clearly on the delivery receipt before signing (such as "missing item", "puncture holes in packaging", "multiple dents on the side of unit")

  • Keep your copy of the delivery receipt

  • Contact RestaurantSupply.com immediately with any issues

  • Keep all damaged packing materials for inspection (if possible, leave items in packaging)

  • Take pictures of the damaged items and packaging immediately

If any piece of the shipment is damaged, you have the right to refuse delivery of the damaged item(s). If you refuse delivery of the damaged item(s), you may still accept delivery of the undamaged item(s).

What is liftgate service?

  • A liftgate is a motorized platform attached to the back of a truck that will physically lower your shipment to the ground so that you can take it inside your business or home. The truck driver will move your shipment onto the liftgate and lower it to the ground using the liftgate. You are responsible for bringing the shipment to your location.
  • If you do not have an elevated, truck-height loading dock or a forklift to unload your items from the truck, you will require liftgate service and must select this option when you purchase your items. The "Free Shipping / Liftgate" and the "UPS Ground / Liftgate" options include and add the fee for the liftgate to your order total.
  • Some items are too large or heavy for a liftgate, such as a wide sandwich prep table. These items will require a truck-level loading dock. Contact our Customer Service Team before ordering if you need a loading dock.

What is Call Before Delivery?

  • If you choose to pay for the Liftgate Service in advance, you are entitled to a Call Before Delivery. This allows the carrier to contact you to arrange a delivery appointment. It is essential to be present for the delivery as the freight companies will only deliver the shipment with someone to receive it. If you fail to show up for the appointment, there will be a charge of $125.00 to be paid before they reschedule the delivery.