How Generator Shipping and Delivery Works
Standby generators are large, heavy items (typically 300 to 500+ pounds) that ship via LTL (Less Than Truckload) freight carrier on a pallet. This is different from standard UPS or FedEx small parcel delivery, so understanding the freight delivery process helps you prepare and ensures a smooth experience. IB Lighting includes free freight insurance on every generator and transfer switch order, protecting your investment from warehouse to doorstep.
The Shipping Process
Order Processing
After you place your order, our team verifies inventory, confirms shipping details, and dispatches the order to the distribution warehouse. In-stock items typically ship within 1 to 5 business days. You will receive a tracking number and the freight carrier name once the shipment is picked up.
Transit Time
LTL freight transit times depend on the distance between the distribution warehouse and your delivery address. Typical transit ranges from 3 to 7 business days for destinations within 1,000 miles of the warehouse, and 5 to 10 business days for cross-country shipments. These are estimates; actual transit may vary based on carrier scheduling and route logistics.
Delivery Appointment
Unlike small parcel delivery, freight shipments require a delivery appointment. The freight carrier will contact you by phone (usually 24 to 48 hours before delivery) to schedule a specific delivery date. This ensures someone is available to receive and inspect the shipment. If you miss the carrier call, contact them using the information on your tracking notification to schedule the appointment.
What to Expect on Delivery Day
The freight truck will arrive during your scheduled window. Standard residential freight delivery is “curbside” or “tailgate” delivery, meaning the driver will bring the pallet to the back of the truck and lower it to the ground using the truck liftgate. The shipment is delivered to the end of your driveway or the nearest accessible point to the truck. Residential freight delivery does not include moving the generator to the installation location (that is your installer responsibility).
Inspecting Your Shipment
Inspection at the time of delivery is critical. Before signing the delivery receipt, visually inspect the packaging for any signs of damage: punctures, tears, crushed corners, water stains, or signs the pallet shifted during transit. If you see damage to the packaging, note it on the delivery receipt before signing. Write “received with damage” and describe what you see. This notation preserves your claim rights. If the packaging appears severely damaged and you suspect the equipment inside is compromised, you have the right to refuse the shipment. Contact IB Lighting immediately at (800) 674-9019 if you receive a damaged shipment. Our freight insurance covers replacement at no cost to you.
After Delivery
Once the generator is on your property, coordinate with your licensed installer to move the unit to the installation location. Generators are heavy and should be moved with appropriate equipment (a hand truck, appliance dolly, or equipment skid). Do not attempt to carry a generator manually. Your installer will typically handle positioning the unit on the pad as part of the installation service.
Shipping Smaller Items
Transfer switches, generator accessories, lighting fixtures, and electrical wire ship via standard carriers (UPS, FedEx, or USPS) depending on size and weight. These items arrive at your door without a delivery appointment, just like any other online order. Tracking information is provided for all shipments.
Nationwide Delivery
IB Lighting ships to all 50 states. Whether you are in a major metro area or a rural location, we can get equipment to your property. Remote delivery locations may have slightly longer transit times or carrier surcharges, which we will communicate before your order ships.
Questions about shipping? Call (800) 674-9019 before or after ordering. Browse our full product selection or visit the contact page for additional support.