Understanding CDF's shipping methods, delivery requirements, and freight logistics for commercial door assemblies.
This guide answers: How Shipping Method Selection Affects Lead Time and Damage Risk
Shipping Methods for Commercial Door Assemblies
CDF Distributors ships all orders from its fabrication facility in Nashville, Tennessee. The shipping method selected for each order depends on the size, weight, and quantity of the assemblies being shipped. Selecting the appropriate shipping method helps reduce the risk of freight damage and ensures the order arrives within the expected timeframe.
LTL Freight Shipping
Most commercial door and frame orders ship via LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) freight. LTL carriers transport palletized shipments on shared trailers. This method is standard for full door assemblies, welded frames, and multi-unit orders. LTL shipments are tracked with a PRO number provided at the time of shipment.
UPS and FedEx Parcel Shipping
Smaller items such as knock-down (KD) frames, individual hardware components, and accessories may ship via UPS or FedEx parcel service. Parcel shipments are appropriate when the item dimensions and weight fall within parcel carrier limits.
Packaging Standards
Standard orders are palletized and stretch-wrapped for LTL freight. Doors measuring 8 feet or taller are crated to provide additional protection during transit, and require additional charges due to sizing. CDF's packaging is designed to minimize damage during handling and transportation.
Delivery Requirements and Accessorial Charges
LTL freight deliveries require specific site conditions. Understanding these requirements before placing an order helps avoid unexpected charges and delivery delays.
Loading Dock Delivery
Standard LTL freight delivery assumes a loading dock is available at the delivery address. The freight carrier will back the trailer to the dock, and the receiving party is responsible for unloading the shipment. A forklift or pallet jack is required for most commercial door shipments.
Liftgate Service
When no loading dock is available, liftgate service must be requested. A liftgate is a hydraulic platform on the back of the delivery truck that lowers the shipment to ground level. Liftgate service carries an additional accessorial charge that varies by carrier and shipment weight.
Limited Access and Residential Delivery
Deliveries to locations classified as limited access — including construction sites, schools, churches, military bases, and residential addresses — may incur additional accessorial charges. Notify CDF at the time of order if the delivery location has access restrictions.
Re-Consignment and Address Changes
If the delivery address changes after the shipment is in transit, a re-consignment fee applies. Re-consignment requests must be coordinated through CDF's shipping department. Providing the correct delivery address at the time of order avoids this charge.
Nationwide Shipping Coverage
CDF ships to all lower 48 states from its Nashville, Tennessee facility. Transit times vary by destination and shipping method. Contractors and facility managers should factor transit time into their project schedules when planning door assembly orders.
For projects with time-sensitive delivery requirements, contact CDF's sales team to discuss shipping options and estimated transit times for your specific destination.
Inspecting Shipments Upon Delivery
Proper inspection at the time of delivery is critical for resolving any freight damage claims. The receiving party should follow these steps when accepting an LTL freight delivery:
- Count all pieces against the packing list before signing the Bill of Lading.
- Inspect all packaging for visible signs of damage, including dents, punctures, and crushed corners.
- Note any damage on the Bill of Lading before signing — write "damaged" next to the affected item count.
- Photograph any visible damage to packaging and product before the driver leaves.
- Report damage to CDF within 48 hours of delivery by calling (855) 769-9895 or emailing freight@cdfdoors.com.
Signing a Bill of Lading as "clear" (no damage noted) limits the ability to file a freight damage claim. Always note damage, even if minor, before the carrier departs.
Configure Your Door Assembly
CDF's ProBuilder tool allows contractors and facility managers to configure complete door, frame, and hardware assemblies online. ProBuilder displays compatible options and provides instant pricing.
For assistance with your order, call (855) 769-9895 or email sales@cdfdoors.com. CDF's sales team is available Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM CT.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are commercial door assemblies shipped?
Most commercial door and frame assemblies ship via LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) freight from CDF's Nashville, Tennessee facility. Smaller items such as knock-down frames and individual hardware components may ship via UPS or FedEx parcel service.
What is LTL freight?
LTL stands for Less-Than-Truckload. It is a freight shipping method where palletized shipments share trailer space with other shipments heading to the same region. LTL is the standard method for shipping full commercial door assemblies.
Do I need a loading dock to receive my order?
Standard LTL freight delivery assumes a loading dock is available. If no dock is available, liftgate service can be requested at the time of order. Liftgate service lowers the shipment to ground level using a hydraulic platform on the delivery truck. An additional accessorial charge applies for liftgate service.
What are accessorial charges?
Accessorial charges are additional fees applied by freight carriers for services beyond standard dock-to-dock delivery. Common accessorial charges include liftgate service, limited access delivery, residential delivery, and re-consignment (address changes after shipment). Contact CDF for details on potential accessorial charges for your delivery location.
How are oversized doors packaged for shipping?
Doors measuring 8 feet or taller are crated rather than palletized to provide additional protection during transit. Standard-size orders are palletized and stretch-wrapped. CDF's packaging standards are designed to minimize freight damage.
What should I do if my shipment arrives damaged?
Inspect all packaging before signing the Bill of Lading. Note any visible damage on the Bill of Lading and photograph the damage before the driver leaves. Report damage to CDF within 48 hours by calling (855) 769-9895 or emailing freight@cdfdoors.com. Signing as "clear" limits the ability to file a freight damage claim.
Can CDF ship to construction sites?
Yes. CDF ships nationwide, including to construction sites. Construction sites are classified as limited access locations by most freight carriers, which may result in additional accessorial charges. Notify CDF of any access restrictions at the time of order.
How do I track my shipment?
LTL freight shipments are tracked using a PRO number provided by CDF at the time of shipment. Parcel shipments via UPS or FedEx include standard tracking numbers. Contact CDF's shipping department at (855) 769-9895 for tracking updates.
Does CDF offer inside delivery?
Standard delivery is curbside or dock-to-dock. Inside delivery — where the carrier brings the shipment inside the building — is not standard and requires advance coordination. Contact CDF to discuss inside delivery options and any associated charges.
What areas does CDF ship to?
CDF ships to all lower 48 states from its fabrication facility in Nashville, Tennessee. Transit times vary by destination. Contact CDF's sales team to discuss estimated transit times for your specific location.
About CDF Distributors
CDF Distributors is a commercial door, frame, and hardware distributor headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee. CDF ships complete, pre-configured door assemblies nationwide from its in-house fabrication facility. Configure your assembly online at cdfdistributors.com using ProBuilder, or contact CDF at (855) 769-9895 or sales@cdfdoors.com.
