Fastenal Shipping Question

I am getting mixed information on pallet shipping using Fastenal.
Some say it must be enclosed box type pallet.
Others say an open flat pallet is acceptable as long as items are secured and not over hanging pallet.
Can anyone confirm Fastenal's 3PL pallet shipping requirements?

Thanks in advance.
Ben AKA Macon Rounds   

^ this is true
I've shipped using both methods for engines.
They will tell you right out (or should) that anything not "crated" will NOT be insured.
Conversely, crated will be.  You or the other person determines the value and that is figured in with the quote for shipping.
The 'request for quote'  can be done on-line and is not that difficult once you know all the details like; what's being shipped, where's it's going, what it weighs, type of commodity, recipient's name & email, etc.

Also, an engine or whatever mechanical item must be drained of all liquids regardless of whether it's crated or not.

The buyer is usually responsible for initiating the process, but it can be the seller as well.
If you are the seller and the buyer has started or completed his/her part on their end, Fastenal must have the "paperwork" at the drop off point before they will accept it for shipping.  This is something Fastenal sends via Fax/email from one branch to a central office and then onto another  branch.

http://www.fastenal.com/en/22/third-party-logistics-(3pl)

I shipped 2 14x9x28 tires and wheels via a pallet. They hung off.

Unless it is a big ole rock or some pig iron shipping almost anything on an open pallet  is risky business,  an open invitation to missing pieces , broken parts etc. You can bet your bottom dollar that  no shipper will take responsibility for any damages if so shipped.  For the cost of a sheet of 7/16 OSB, a couple 2x4s and an hour of your time why risk it?

Just a note on Fastenal
 I have shipped antique and modern diesel engines pretty much all over the country and Fastenal shipping service varies from good to crap, depends on who you deal with, the local dealer and when they have a truck going the direction you need.  Do yourself a favor and create an account on U-ship, advertise your shipment and look over the responses. What you will find is for a measly  few more dollars the major carriers (YRC, Old Dominon, etc)  will come to your door and pick it up and deliver it to your customers door in 3-6 days cross country Vs ???? with Fastenal.  If you are shipping commercial dock to commercial dock they will beat Fastenal's price.  If you contact the shippers directly the prices will be sky high but through U-ship they are MUCH cheaper.  Personally I don't mess with Fastenal shipping any more unless the customer demands it and then it's their baby once I drop it off.


Edited by Butch(OH) - 30 Sep 2016 at 5:31am

$150 to ship my tires/wheels combo from WI to VA and the tires were fully loaded.

Who is YRC?