Commercial kitchen equipment usually arrives by freight, strapped to a pallet or boxed in a wooden crate. The minutes after the truck pulls up are the most important for protecting yourself against shipping damage. This guide covers how to receive freight, uncrate safely and inspect new equipment before you sign and before you install.
Shop the equipment in this article: Standard Range SR-R36 36″ range with 6 burners, Coldline C-2FE 54″ reach-in freezer and Prepline ST-3060 30″ x 60″ work table. Freight is included on every order.
Before the Truck Arrives
Clear a path from the loading area to where the equipment will live. Measure every door, hallway and turn. A reach-in or range that does not fit through the back door is a common and avoidable problem. Have tools ready: a utility knife, a pry bar, a drill with a driver bit, gloves, and a hand truck or pallet jack if you have one. Have at least two people available for heavy items.
Freight deliveries are often curbside or to the back dock. If you need liftgate service or inside delivery, confirm it before the shipment leaves.
Inspect Before You Sign
- Count the pieces against the bill of lading.
- Walk around each crate or box and look for crushed corners, punctures, forklift holes and wet spots.
- Check tip indicators on refrigeration crates. A tripped indicator means the unit may have been laid over.
- If anything looks damaged, write a clear description on the delivery receipt, such as “crate corner crushed, possible damage”, before signing.
- Take photos of the packaging from all sides with the truck in the background if you can.
Signing a clean receipt makes a damage claim much harder later. Do not let a driver rush you.
Uncrating Safely
- Remove straps and outer banding carefully. They can spring back.
- Take off the top of a crate first, then the sides.
- Remove screws or brackets holding the unit to the pallet. Many ranges and fryers are bolted through the legs or feet.
- Lift equipment off the pallet with enough people. Do not tip refrigeration on its side.
- Keep all hardware bags, legs, casters, shelves and manuals. Tape small parts to the unit so they do not get thrown out with the packaging.
Inspect the Equipment Itself
- Look for dents, scratches and bent panels.
- Open doors and drawers. Check hinges, gaskets and handles.
- Check knobs, switches and displays for cracks.
- On gas equipment like the Standard Range SR-R36 36″ range with 6 burners, look at burner grates, oven racks and the gas inlet for damage.
- On refrigeration like the Coldline C-2FE 54″ reach-in freezer, look at the condenser area and any visible tubing.
- On stainless tables like the Prepline ST-3060 30″ x 60″ work table, check that the top is flat and the undershelf and legs are straight.
- Compare the model and data plate to your order, including voltage and gas type.
If you find hidden damage, stop, take photos and contact the seller right away. Many carriers have a short window for concealed damage claims, so report it the same day if you can. Keep the packaging until the claim is settled.
Check for All Parts
Compare the contents to the parts list in the manual. Legs, casters, shelves, clips, drip trays, burner caps and faucet parts often ship in a separate box inside the crate. Parts like TSC-3 3″ casters for work tables, set of 4 may ship in their own box.
Before Installation
- Read the manual. Note clearances, electrical requirements, gas type and water connections.
- Let refrigeration stand upright as long as the manual recommends before plugging in.
- Level each unit in place.
- Book your licensed electrician, plumber or gas fitter for hookups. All gas, electrical and plumbing connections should be made by licensed professionals and checked against local code.
Dispose of Packaging
Break down crates and cardboard safely and recycle where possible. Pull nails and staples from wood so nobody gets hurt.
Next Steps
Keep this checklist taped inside your receiving area. When you are ready to order, browse commercial kitchen equipment and work tables. Questions? Contact Express KitchQuip and we will help you pick the right size and configuration.