Understanding Our Shipping Process for Automotive Equipment
1. Before You Order – Important Considerations
Equipment Specifications:
Verify equipment dimensions will fit your space
Check power requirements (110V/220V)
Ensure doorways and ceilings can accommodate equipment height
Confirm floor load capacity for heavy equipment
Site Preparation Checklist:
Clear pathway from delivery point to installation area
Have appropriate moving equipment available (pallet jack, forklift)
Ensure electrical outlets are properly configured
Designate installation area in advance
Delivery Access Requirements:
8-foot wide access paths minimum
Overhead clearance of at least 8 feet
No stairs or narrow corridors for freight items
Parking availability for large trucks
2. Choosing the Right Shipping Method
For Small Parts & Accessories (Under 150 lbs):
UPS Ground – Most economical, 3-5 business days
FedEx Ground – Similar to UPS, good tracking
USPS Priority – For very small items only
For Medium Equipment (150-500 lbs):
FedEx Freight – Reliable, liftgate service available
UPS Freight – Good for business addresses
Regional LTL – Cost-effective for shorter distances
For Large Equipment (500+ lbs – Wheel Balancers, Tire Changers, Lifts):
Standard LTL – Most common for heavy equipment
Liftgate Service – Included at no extra charge
Appointment Delivery – Required for most freight
Expedited Options:
2-day air available for critical parts
White-glove delivery service (additional cost)
Saturday delivery upon request
3. Freight Shipping – What to Expect
The Freight Process Timeline:
Order Processed (1-2 business days)
Equipment Prepared (inspected, crated, palletized)
Pickup by Carrier (scheduled by our team)
In Transit (5-14 days depending on distance)
Delivery Appointment (scheduled by carrier)
Final Delivery (curbside with liftgate)
Understanding Freight Class:
Based on density, value, and handling requirements
Typically class 85-125 for automotive equipment
Affects shipping cost but not service level
Liftgate Service Details:
Included free with all freight shipments
Lowers equipment to ground level from truck
Does not include moving equipment into building
Driver operates liftgate only – does not move equipment
4. Receiving Your Shipment – Step by Step
Before Delivery:
Have at least two people available
Ensure clear access to delivery point
Have camera ready for documentation
Keep our contact information handy: +1(973) 434 5150
During Delivery – CRITICAL STEPS:
INSPECT BEFORE SIGNING – Walk around shipment while driver unloads
LOOK FOR:
Crushed packaging
Puncture marks
Water damage
Shifted contents
NOTE ANY DAMAGE on Bill of Lading before signing
COUNT PIECES – Verify all boxes/pallets are present
TAKE PHOTOS of shipment condition and packaging
If Damage is Visible:
DO NOT REFUSE SHIPMENT (unless severely damaged)
WRITE “DAMAGED” on all copies of Bill of Lading
BE SPECIFIC: “Crushed corner,” “Torn packaging,” etc.
TAKE PHOTOS with driver present if possible
CONTACT US IMMEDIATELY at +1(973) 434 5150
5. Moving Equipment to Final Location
Equipment Moving Options:
Pallet Jack – Most equipment arrives on pallets
Forklift – Recommended for heavy items
Equipment Dollies – Available at equipment rental stores
Professional Riggers – We can provide local recommendations
Safety Considerations:
Use proper lifting techniques
Wear steel-toed boots
Secure equipment during movement
Clear pathways of trip hazards
Installation Preparation:
Keep equipment in packaging until ready to install
Store in dry, temperature-controlled area
Have manufacturer’s installation guide available
Ensure all necessary tools are ready
6. Common Shipping Scenarios
Residential Delivery:
Advance notice to carrier required
May require specific delivery windows
Additional fees may apply for difficult access
Recommend business address delivery when possible
Business/Commercial Delivery:
Typically easier for freight carriers
Dock height delivery often available
Business hours delivery required
Receiving department should be notified
Rural Delivery:
May require additional transit time
Limited carrier options in some areas
Additional fees for remote locations
Contact us for rural shipping quotes
7. International Shipping
Available Upon Request:
Canada and Mexico shipments
Overseas container shipments
Customs clearance assistance
Export documentation
International Considerations:
Voltage compatibility (may require transformers)
Metric vs. standard measurements
Local certification requirements
Extended lead times (4-8 weeks)
8. Shipping Problem Resolution
Common Issues & Solutions:
“My shipment is late”
Check tracking information first
Contact carrier directly with tracking number
Call us if carrier cannot resolve: +1(973) 434 5150
“Damage discovered after delivery”
Contact us within 24 hours
Save all packaging for inspection
Take detailed photos of damage
Do not dispose of damaged materials
“Missing pieces”
Check all packaging thoroughly
Look for multiple tracking numbers
Contact us within 7 days of delivery
We’ll ship missing items immediately
“Wrong item received”
Contact us with order number and item received
We’ll arrange return shipping and send correct item
Include photos of what you received
9. Pro Tips for Smooth Shipping
Best Practices:
Order with plenty of lead time before needed
Consider shipping to business address when possible
Have receiving area prepared in advance
Keep our contact information easily accessible
Planning for Installation:
Schedule installer after equipment arrives
Allow time for uncrating and inspection
Have necessary utilities ready (power, air lines)
Clear work area for installation team
10. Quick Reference Contact Sheet
For Order Status & Tracking:
Email: contact@astontechnologie.com
Phone: +1(973) 434 5150
Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm EST
For Shipping Emergencies (After Hours):
Use emergency contact provided with freight shipments
Leave detailed message with callback number
We respond to emergencies within 2 hours
Carrier Contacts:
FedEx Freight: 1-800-Go-FedEx
UPS: 1-800-PICK-UPS
LTL Carriers: Contact us for specific carrier information
Remember: Proper planning and communication ensure smooth delivery of your automotive equipment. We’re here to help at every step!
Aston Technologies
14303 Sullyfield Cir Ste G, Chantilly, VA 20151
contact@astontechnologie.com | +1(973) 434 5150