Freight Delivery for Fire Pit Tables: What to Expect

1. Key takeaways – Freight Delivery in Plain English

• Most full-size fire pit tables ship by freight on a pallet, not parcel, because they’re heavy (often 150–400 lb / 68–181 kg) and bulky.
  
• Expect curbside delivery with a liftgate unless you’ve paid for threshold or white-glove service. The driver usually doesn’t move it into your backyard.
  
• On delivery day you must inspect the crate before signing, take photos of any damage, and note issues on the delivery receipt (BOL).
  
• Oversized models (for example some 84" / 213 cm concrete fire pits from brands like The Outdoor Plus) may ship “back of truck” and require a customer-supplied forklift instead of a liftgate.
  
• Prep ahead: measure gates and pathways, clear a landing spot, and line up 2–3 people to help uncrate and move the table.
  
• Keep this guide handy as a checklist—and always follow the specific instructions from your retailer and the manufacturer.
  
  

Early in your research, it can help to skim the full Buyer Hub too:
Fire Pits & Fire Pit Tables : Complete 2025 Buyer’s Guide

 

2. Introduction

A fire pit table looks like furniture in your backyard, but in shipping terms it’s industrial equipment: heavy, fragile, and filled with gas components. That’s why it almost always travels via freight trucking, strapped to a pallet or packed in a wood crate, instead of standard parcel carriers.

If you’ve never received a freight shipment before, the process can feel a bit intimidating:

• What does curbside really mean?
  
• Will the driver carry it into my yard?
  
• What if something is damaged?
  
• How do I prepare if my driveway is steep or my gate is narrow?
  

This guide walks you through freight delivery for fire pit tables from start to finish—for both homeowners and trade partners—so delivery day is predictable instead of stressful. You’ll learn how freight works, how brands like The Outdoor Plus typically ship their fire features, and exactly what to do before and during delivery to protect your investment.

 

3. Why Fire Pit Tables Ship Freight (Not Parcel)

Because of their size and weight, most fire pit tables can’t go through UPS, FedEx, or other parcel networks. Instead, they ship via LTL (less-than-truckload) freight.

Typical reasons:

• Weight: Many concrete or stone fire pit tables weigh 150–400 lb (68–181 kg) or more once crated—far above parcel limits. Some commercial-scale units can exceed 800–1000 lb (363–454 kg).
  
• Bulk: Crated fire tables often measure 60–84 in (152–213 cm) long and arrive on a full pallet.
  
• Fragility: The burner, ignition system, gas lines, and finishes (especially concrete or GFRC) require careful handling and upright transport.
  
• Made-to-order manufacturing: Many U.S. brands, including The Outdoor Plus, build fire pits to order and ship FOB from their facility in Ontario, California, via standard freight carriers.
  
  

Freight shipping sounds complicated, but it simply means your fire pit comes in a large, heavy crate on a truck rather than a small box. Understanding your delivery type is the next step.

 

4. Delivery Types: Curbside, Threshold & White-Glove

Retailers and brands describe delivery in different ways, but most options fall into a few buckets.

Table: Delivery Type Comparison – Curbside vs Threshold vs White-Glove

Many mid-range fire pits from brands like The Outdoor Plus or other concrete manufacturers include free residential curbside delivery with liftgate through retailers—meaning the driver lowers the pallet to the ground, but you’re responsible for bringing it to final position.

Before you order, confirm your delivery type so there are no surprises. If your driveway is steep, gravel, or very long, ask whether the carrier can accommodate it.

 

5. Typical Crate Sizes & Weights

Crate dimensions vary by model and material, but here’s what’s common for residential fire pit tables.

Table: Typical Crate Sizes & Weights for Fire Pit Tables

Retailers selling The Outdoor Plus and similar brands frequently note:

• Made-to-order lead times of about 2–4 weeks before shipment.
  
• Transit times of roughly 5–7 business days once the freight carrier picks up the order.
  

Knowing your approximate crate size and weight helps you decide where the pallet can sit and how many people or tools you’ll need for uncrating.

 

6. Preparing Your Space Before Delivery

A smooth delivery day starts at least a week earlier.

CHECKLIST: Before Delivery – Prep Steps

• Confirm shipping details with your retailer: delivery type, carrier, tracking number, and whether a liftgate is included.
  
• Review access:
  
  • Measure driveway width and note steep slopes or tight turns.
    
  • Measure gates, side yards, and doors (clear width and height) in both inches and centimeters.
    
    
• Choose a landing spot for the crate: flat, solid ground (driveway, garage, or patio pad).
  
• Clear the path: move planters, bins, cars, and furniture out of the way.
  
• Line up help: at least 2–3 adults for anything over ~200 lb (91 kg).
  
• Gather basic tools:
  
  • Utility knife or box cutter
    
  • Pry bar or drill/screwdriver (for crate screws)
    
  • Heavy-duty gloves & closed-toe shoes
    
  • Furniture sliders or dolly (optional but helpful)
    

• If you’re in a multi-unit building, ask management if freight trucks can access the loading area or if special instructions are needed.
  

A 10–15 minute measuring session now can save an hour of stress when the truck is on your street.

For more on sizing and access, see: Fire Pit Table Sets – Chairs, Heights & Materials

 

7. What Happens on Delivery Day

On delivery day, the carrier will usually call ahead with a time window (often 2–4 hours). Residential freight isn’t like parcel—drivers rarely show up unannounced.

CHECKLIST: Delivery Day – What to Do When Truck Arrives

1. Be present (or have an authorized adult present) during the window.
   
2. When the driver arrives, confirm your name and order.
   
3. The driver positions the truck and uses the liftgate (if included) to lower the pallet to your driveway or curb.
   
4. Ask the driver to place the crate where you can inspect it safely (not blocking traffic).
   
5. Inspect the exterior crate and pallet thoroughly before signing anything—this part is critical for damage claims.
   
6. Only sign the Bill of Lading (BOL) after you’ve inspected and documented the condition.
   

Most freight drivers are on a schedule but understand that a quick inspection is standard. You’re allowed a few minutes to check your shipment before signing.

 

8. How to Inspect the Shipment (Critical)

Freight carriers and manufacturers—including The Outdoor Plus—routinely state that they’re not responsible for damage after you sign for the shipment as “received in good condition.”

That makes your inspection and documentation especially important.

CHECKLIST: Damage Inspection Checklist (Exterior + Interior)

Exterior inspection (before opening)

• Walk around all sides of the pallet. Look for:
  
  • Crushed corners or split boards on the crate
    
  • Forklift tine punctures on the sides or bottom
    
  • Broken straps or loose banding
    
  • Wet, oily, or heavily scuffed cardboard
    
  • Holes or tears in plastic wrap over the crate
    
• Take clear photos of all labels plus any suspicious areas.
  
• If damage looks significant (wood stripped, corners smashed, hardware exposed), ask the driver to note it on the BOL before you sign.
  

Interior inspection (after opening, while driver is still present if possible)

• Remove top and sides of the crate carefully.
  
• Check the fire pit table body, burner, and media boxes for cracks, chips, dents, or bent metal.
  
• Confirm that key parts (burner, control panel, media, hose/regulator) are present.
  
• Take photos of any issues before moving the table.
  

If in doubt, document everything. Carriers and manufacturers often require photos plus notation on the delivery receipt to process freight claims.

 

9. When (and How) to Refuse Delivery

Sometimes the safest option is to refuse delivery outright.

You should consider refusing if:

• The crate is severely damaged and you can clearly see damage to the fire pit itself.
  
• The product is broken, cracked, or bent in ways that might affect safety or structural integrity.
  
• The wrong product was sent (different model/size/finish on the label).
  
  

If you refuse:

1. Politely tell the driver you’re refusing due to damage.
   
2. Ask them to mark the BOL with specific notes, e.g., “Refused – crate punctured, unit cracked on corner.”
   
3. Take lots of photos (wide shots + close-ups + BOL).
   
4. Contact your retailer or support team immediately with photos and the tracking/BOL number.
   
   

Refusing delivery may feel inconvenient, but it can actually speed up the claim and replacement process compared to accepting a severely damaged unit.

 

10. Uncrating & Moving the Fire Pit Table

Once you’re satisfied the shipment is acceptable, it’s time to uncrate and move your new fire pit.

Basic process:

1. Remove the outer packaging
• Cut bands carefully so they don’t snap back.
• Unscrew or pry off the crate lid and sides.
• Watch for stray nails or staples.
2. Locate accessory boxes
• Many manufacturers (including The Outdoor Plus) pack burner, connections, and lava rock/glass in separate boxes inside the crate.
• Set these aside safely; don’t discard packaging until you confirm everything is present.
3. Team lift the table
• For concrete tables, use 2–3 adults and lift from structurally strong points—not from the burner opening, ignition plate, or lip edge.
• Avoid dragging on rough surfaces which can scratch or chip.
• For slabs or very heavy models, consider furniture dollies or a pallet jack.
4. Move to final location
• Follow any manufacturer guidance (some specify keeping the table upright at all times).
• If you’re placing on a deck or roof, confirm load capacity with a professional.
5. Dispose or store the crate
• Keep packaging until the unit is fully installed and tested in case a hidden defect appears.

Take your time with uncrating. A few extra minutes spent lifting correctly can prevent cosmetic chips or worse.

For installation and ongoing care, see: Outdoor Fire Pit Table: Setup & Maintenance

 

11. Special Notes for Trade & Design Professionals

If you’re a designer, builder, or dealer specifying fire pit tables for clients, clear communication about freight can save everyone headaches.

Key points to cover in your client documentation:

• Delivery type and what the driver will / won’t do.
  
• Approximate crate size & weight for each model.
  
• Required site access (e.g., 53' trailer clearance, steep driveways, HOA gate codes).
  
• Whether large units (like 84" concrete bowls) require forklift or job-site equipment to unload.
  
• Who is responsible for uncrating and moving the unit to final location.
  
• Coordination between freight delivery, gas installer, and landscaping/stone crews.
  
• Simple pre-delivery email templates reminding clients to inspect and photograph the shipment.
  

When trade partners set expectations early, clients are far less likely to panic on delivery day or assume “the driver will just put it in my backyard.”

Interested in program perks, freight support, and spec resources? Join Our Trade Program

 

12. Problem/Solution Mini-Cases

Case 1: “The crate corner is smashed and I can see chipped concrete.”

Problem
A forklift or impact has crushed a crate corner. The exposed edge of your concrete fire pit table shows chipping.

What to do

• Before signing, take multiple photos of the damaged corner, crate, and labels.
  
• Ask the driver to note visible damage on the BOL.
  
• If the damage is severe or structural, refuse delivery, using language like “Refused – visible damage to product corner.”
  
• Contact your retailer or Contact Support / Delivery Specialist immediately with photos.
  
  

Case 2: “The driver says they don’t have time for me to inspect.”

Problem
The driver pushes you to sign quickly and leave inspection for later.

What to do

• Calmly explain: “I just need a couple of minutes to check for visible damage—this is standard with freight shipments.”
  
• If absolutely necessary, sign “Subject to inspection, packaging damaged” on the BOL and take thorough photos of the unopened crate.
  
• Inspect and uncrate as soon as possible and report any issues to your retailer within the required window (many policies request notification within 24–72 hours).
  
  

Case 3: “The crate won’t fit through my side gate.”

Problem
Your measurements were off, or the crate is larger than expected.

What to do

• Leave the crate in a safe area (driveway) and uncrate there.
  
• Move the table and components separately through the gate using dollies or team lifts.
  
• For future projects, cross-check crate dimensions with the retailer and review: Fire Pit & Fire Pit Table Safety: Distances, Decks & Trees (U.S. Homeowner Guide)
  
  

 

13. FAQs – Freight Delivery for Fire Pit Tables

1. Do fire pit tables always ship freight?
Most full-size gas or propane fire pit tables do ship via freight due to their weight and size. Smaller accessories (covers, wind guards, media) often ship by parcel.

2. How long does freight delivery take?
After your table leaves the factory or warehouse, transit time is usually 3–7 business days depending on distance. Made-to-order brands like The Outdoor Plus often have a 2–4 week lead time before shipment.

3. Can I schedule a specific delivery time?
Carriers typically offer a time window (morning/afternoon) rather than an exact time. You’ll usually receive a call to schedule residential delivery.

4. Will the driver bring my fire pit table into the backyard?
With standard curbside service, no. The driver’s responsibility usually ends at curb or driveway, after lowering the crate via liftgate. Anything beyond that requires your own labor, equipment, or a white-glove upgrade.

5. What if I’m not home when the truck arrives?
Freight shipments almost always require a signature. If you miss your window, the carrier may charge a redelivery fee and delay your order.

6. Do I need to tip the driver?
Tips are optional and not required. Some homeowners choose to tip if the driver goes above and beyond (e.g., moving the pallet further than required).

7. Who handles damage claims?
You normally work with your retailer or manufacturer, who then files a claim with the freight carrier. This is why photos, prompt reporting, and notes on the BOL are so important.

8. Is assembly included with delivery?
Standard freight delivery does not include assembly. Some white-glove services may add uncrating and basic setup, but gas connections always require a qualified installer.

9. What tools do I need for uncrating?
At minimum: work gloves, a utility knife, and a screwdriver or drill for crate screws. For heavy units, a dolly, pallet jack, or extra helpers are strongly recommended.

10. Can I change my shipping address after the order ships?
Once shipped, address changes can be complicated and may incur reconsignment fees. Try to finalize the delivery address before production is complete.

 

14. Conclusion & Next Steps

Freight delivery doesn’t have to be mysterious. Once you know:

• Why your fire pit table ships freight,
  
• Which delivery type you’re getting,
  
• How big and heavy your crate will be, and
  
• Exactly what to do when the truck arrives…
  

…delivery day becomes just another step in your backyard upgrade—not a source of stress.

Remember:

• Prep your site and helpers before the truck is scheduled.
  
• Inspect the crate and contents before signing or as soon as possible.
  
• Document everything with photos and notes on the BOL if there are issues.
  
• When in doubt, reach out to your retailer or support team right away.
  
  

For a full overview of choosing, sizing, and planning your fire pit table, visit: Fire Pits & Fire Pit Tables : Complete 2025 Buyer’s Guide

And if you’re ready to move from planning to unboxing:

• Contact a Delivery Specialist
  
• Shop Fire Pits and Fire Pit Tables
  
• Join Our Trade Program for special perks