Can I Pick up My Stone Veneer and Save the Shipping Cost?

If you're looking to purchase manufactured stone veneer, it's natural to wonder: Can I pick up the product myself and avoid shipping fees? The short answer is yes, in many cases, you can pick up your order directly from our facility. However, before loading your vehicle, it’s worth understanding what’s involved, and whether it’s the right choice for you. Below, we’ll explain the benefits and drawbacks of self-pickup, how LTL shipping works, and why freight can be expensive.

You can pick up your order, but here's what to know

Picking up your stone veneer yourself can definitely save on freight costs, especially if you live nearby. We offer local pickup options from our warehouse facility. But before renting a trailer or loading up your truck, consider these factors:

Stone veneer is heavy and bulky: even smaller orders can weigh hundreds of pounds.

Proper vehicle and equipment are essential: you’ll need a truck or trailer capable of handling palletized loads.

Lifting and securing the load: if you're not familiar with how to strap down a heavy pallet or move it safely, it can be risky.

Loading support: loading and securing the stone veneer is your responsibility.

What is LTL shipping?

If you're not picking up the stone yourself, your order will be shipped via LTL (Less Than Truckload) freight. LTL shipping means your stone veneer order shares space on a freight truck with other shipments. Instead of one full load going to a single destination, the truck stops multiple times to drop off and pick up various shipments. Why LTL shipping costs more:

1. Specialized handling: stone veneer is fragile and heavy. Pallets must be handled with care, often requiring liftgates and manual coordination at delivery.

2. Fuel and freight charges: these fluctuate, and even short distances can be costly due to rising diesel prices and freight demand.

3. Multiple transfers: LTL shipments are often moved between hubs, increasing labor and handling time.

4. Liftgate service: if you don’t have a forklift or loading dock, you’ll need a truck with a liftgate, another cost add-on.

Pros of picking up your stone veneer

1. Save on shipping costs: freight fees can be significant, especially for small to mid-size orders.

2. Immediate access: no waiting for delivery schedules or freight coordination.

3. Inspect product on the spot: you’ll see exactly what you're getting before taking it home.

Cons of picking up your stone veneer

1. Vehicle requirements: not everyone has access to a truck or trailer capable of hauling 1,000+ lbs.

2. Handling risk: improper loading can damage your vehicle, or the stone.

3. Time & labor: you’ll need to lift, secure, and unload everything yourself.

4. Liability during transit: once it leaves our facility in your vehicle, any damage during transport is your responsibility.

Can I pick up my stone veneer and save the shipping cost?

If you're local and have the right equipment, pickup may be a great way to save. If you're not comfortable handling heavy pallets or lack a suitable vehicle, freight shipping is safer and often more convenient, despite the cost. We’re happy to work with you to find the best solution based on your location, order size, and budget. Just let us know how you'd like to proceed, and we’ll help coordinate either pickup or delivery.

What's next?

Bring your vision to life with our high-quality stone veneer! Shop now to browse our styles or order a sample to experience the texture and see the colors up close. Let’s get your

Have a question?

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For general information and questions please call: (864) 882-8960 Mon. - Fri. 8am - 5pm (EST) or email: info@mountainviewstone.net we are more than happy to help you.

Or you can submit your questions via our contact us page.

We look forward to working with you on your upcoming project.

The Mountain View Stone Team