Shipping Lab Equipment and Supplies

Yes, you can ship hazardous materials such as chemicals and reagents alongside lab equipment, but strict regulations apply. You’ll need to comply with DOT and HAZMAT requirements, including proper labeling, documentation, and packaging. FreightCenter can match you with certified carriers who are equipped to handle HAZMAT freight safely and legally, while also advising on required paperwork.

Palletizing is strongly recommended, especially for bulk shipments or when sending multiple boxes. It stabilizes your cargo, simplifies loading and unloading, and reduces the risk of damage. FreightCenter agents can guide you on pallet configuration and help determine the best method based on the equipment’s weight, fragility, and shipping method.

Glassware should be individually wrapped in bubble wrap or foam and packed in double-walled boxes with dividers. Items should be tightly packed to prevent shifting. For larger shipments, use pallets and consider crating. FreightCenter can recommend carriers and services best suited for transporting fragile, breakable items.

The best way to ship fragile lab equipment is by using strong, secure packaging materials such as custom foam inserts, shock-absorbing crates, and anti-static wrap when needed. Label the shipment as “Fragile” and choose a freight service that minimizes excessive handling, such as white glove or dedicated truckload shipping. FreightCenter helps you select the most appropriate carriers with proven experience in handling scientific and medical equipment, ensuring your shipment is transported safely and securely.

Shipping speed depends on distance, service level, and carrier availability. Standard LTL shipping may take 2–7 business days, while expedited or same-day options are available for time-sensitive shipments. FreightCenter offers a wide selection of expedited and priority freight services to help you meet tight deadlines.

Yes, freight insurance is highly recommended for valuable or sensitive lab equipment. Standard carrier liability may not cover the full value of scientific instruments or specialty items. FreightCenter offers optional insurance coverage and will assist with the claims process if needed.

Absolutely. FreightCenter regularly coordinates shipments to and from universities, hospitals, biotech firms, and independent labs. We understand the nuances of delivering to campuses, medical centers, and research facilities—including scheduling constraints, limited dock access, and specialized delivery needs.

You’ll need a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), proper labeling per HAZMAT guidelines, and potentially a shipper’s declaration of dangerous goods. FreightCenter can help you understand which documents are required for your specific shipment and connect you with carriers authorized for chemical transport.

Yes, lab refrigerators, freezers, and other large appliances can be shipped through FreightCenter. These items typically require liftgate service for delivery, and sometimes temperature control or white glove service, depending on sensitivity. Our logistics experts ensure these needs are communicated clearly to the carrier, so your shipment arrives in working condition.

Yes. Many lab shipments contain temperature-sensitive materials like reagents, blood samples, or biological materials that must be kept cold or frozen. FreightCenter partners with carriers that offer refrigerated, climate-controlled, or insulated container services to ensure temperature integrity from pickup to delivery.

Yes, FreightCenter offers white glove services that include inside delivery, unpacking, and placement of equipment in its intended location. This is especially useful for large, heavy, or delicate equipment being delivered to labs in office parks, medical centers, or campuses where dock access may be limited.

Yes, FreightCenter provides international freight solutions that include ocean and air shipping, customs support, and coordination of paperwork. We also offer crating and packaging recommendations for global transit to ensure your lab equipment arrives safely overseas.

You can track your shipment in real time using FreightCenter’s online tracking tools. Our system gives you visibility from dispatch to delivery, and our team is available to provide updates or handle any delivery exceptions.

If your lab equipment arrives damaged, document the issue immediately with photos and notes, and report it to FreightCenter. We assist you with the claims process and can help you determine if freight insurance will cover the loss. Proper packaging and selecting the right service level are the best ways to prevent damage.

You can get a free, no-obligation quote through FreightCenter’s website or by calling one of our freight experts. We’ll gather details about your equipment, packaging, pickup and delivery locations, and timing needs to provide the most accurate rate options from our carrier network. Just call us at (800) 716-7608, or try our free online quoting tool to get started!