Buying gym equipment is exciting, but the shipping process can be a bit intimidating—especially if you’re not familiar with a freight delivery.
This isn’t Amazon Prime where your new frying pan shows up on your doorstep in 6 hours in little ziplock bag.
Gym equipment shipping has unique logistics challenges due to the size and weight of the items, but with proper preparation and knowledge, it can go smoothly.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the shipping process, explain common pitfalls, and offer actionable tips to make sure your delivery is as stress-free as possible.
Order Confirmation
Once your order is placed, you’ll receive a confirmation email. This ensures your payment is processed, and your order is in the queue for processing.
Order Processing (1–3 Business Days)
Our team checks your order for accuracy, confirms stock availability, and sends it to the warehouse for preparation. For heavy items, this can take a few extra days depending on vendor capacity.
Handling Time (Packing & Preparing)
Large items—like treadmills or power racks—require careful packing to prevent damage during transit. This takes longer than small-package shipments.
Shipping Out
Once packed, your order is assigned a tracking number and Bill of Lading (BOL). You’ll receive these in a shipment confirmation email to track the delivery.
1. Small Parcel Ground Shipping (UPS, FedEx, USPS)
Used for smaller items like cable attachments, dumbbells, and accessories.
Typically quicker and easier to manage.
Doesn’t require a signature.
2. Freight Shipping (LTL Carriers)
Used for large, heavy items like treadmills, functional trainers, and multi-gym stations.
Delivery is curbside by default.
Requires a delivery appointment and a signature upon arrival.
Pro Tip: If your equipment arrives via freight, it will likely be palletized and require unpacking, assembly, and help moving it indoors. Freight drivers won’t bring items inside.
1. Delayed Shipping or Long Lead Times
Gym equipment often has longer lead times due to size and manufacturing cycles.
Solution: Communicate with your sales rep to get a realistic shipping timeline. Expect longer waits during peak seasons (e.g., New Year fitness rush, Black Friday).
2. Missed Delivery Appointments
If you miss your scheduled appointment, you may incur redelivery fees.
Solution: Be proactive in scheduling the delivery and have someone available to receive it.
3. Storage Fees
Freight companies may charge storage fees if your shipment isn’t delivered within a certain timeframe.
Solution: Notify us if you’ll be away or need to adjust the delivery schedule in advance.
4. Damaged Shipments:
So what do you do to make sure you get what you ordered in brand new condition?
Before signing for your delivery, inspect the boxes and pallets for signs of damage. Even minor damage could indicate hidden issues.
Look for: Tears, crushed corners, or holes in the boxes.
Take photos of any potential damage.
Write “DAMAGED, NEEDS REVIEW” on the delivery receipt if anything seems off.
Even if the boxes look fine, open them to inspect your equipment and ensure everything is there. Missing parts? Contact us right away.
Extreme Damage: If you notice significant damage or the equipment appears broken, refuse the delivery and contact us immediately with photos and videos.
Freight delivery is curbside only, which means it’s up to you to move and assemble your items. Be prepared with extra help or consider hiring a professional assembly service.
If curbside delivery won’t cut it for your situation, here are some upgrades to consider:
Threshold Delivery – Your items will be brought inside to the nearest dry area, like a garage or front porch.
Professional Assembly – For larger multi-station gyms or cardio equipment, professional assembly can save you hours of frustration. Contact us for a quote.
1. How long will my order take to arrive?
Delivery times vary depending on the size and shipping distance. Most orders arrive within 1–7 business days after leaving the warehouse, but delays can happen during peak seasons.
2. What happens if I’m not home for the delivery?
The freight company will call to reschedule, but you may be charged a redelivery fee.
3. Can I pick up my order from the warehouse?
Yes! If you’re local, picking up your order directly from the warehouse can save time and shipping fees.
4. Can I track my shipment?
Absolutely. Once your order is assigned a tracking number and Bill of Lading (BOL), you’ll receive updates via email.
Be proactive: Call the freight carrier once your order is in the area to confirm your delivery appointment.
Prepare for heavy lifting: Arrange help in advance for moving large items indoors.
Stay flexible: Lead times can vary, especially for high-demand equipment. Patience pays off.
Shipping gym equipment is different from your average online order, but with the right preparation and mindset, it can be a smooth and painless process. Our team at Select Fitness is here to guide you every step of the way.
📧 Need Help? Contact us at info@selectfitnessusa.com
📞 Call: 888-995-4450
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Matt Gemkow, the author of this content section at Select Fitness USA, boasts more than 15 years of fitness experience. He started out in sports and athletic training for many years and has since 2014 transitioned into heavy-weight training and bodybuilding. As a result, he has become one of the most experienced fitness equipment experts out there, and a valuable source of information.
