Because of their size and/or weight, items shipped via motor freight are loaded into trailers with forklifts. They are then taken to a freight terminal, where they are sorted and organized into collections of shipments that need to travel in the same general direction. These packages are then loaded onto another trailer and sent to another terminal. This process continues until the package arrives at the terminal closest to its final destination (i.e., your residence).

At this point, the motor freight carrier will contact the consignee (you) to arrange for final delivery. Unlike UPS and Federal Express, they will not attempt delivery without an appointment. An adult will have to be present to accept and sign for delivery.

Generally, motor freight shipping costs more than small package delivery. Like those other methods, the cost increases with weight and distance. There are also delivery options that can increase the cost.

Standard motor freight delivery is known as "curbside." That means that the carrier is only responsible for delivering the item to your curb (outside of your house). You will be responsible for getting it from the curb to its desired location in the house.

For additional fees (generally around $60), you can request inside delivery. In this case, the carrier will send a team of two, and they will carry your item inside your house to any first-floor location. Unpacking and removal of the packing material is also usually included, if desired.

You can also choose to pay for liftgate service, which makes it easier to remove the item from the truck if you choose curbside delivery. Since this generally costs almost as much as inside delivery, I recommend that you forego this service and choose inside delivery.

These services can be arranged in advance or at the time the final delivery appointment is made. I recommend that you select basic curbside delivery and add delivery services when making the appointment with the carrier. This gives you the most flexibility.