When it comes to freight shipping, the method of delivery can be just as important as the shipment itself, especially when there’s no loading dock or forklift waiting on the other end. That’s where tailgate delivery comes in.
Tailgate delivery is a common option in commercial freight, but many shippers aren’t fully clear on what it includes and what it doesn’t. If your business handles regular deliveries but lacks heavy-duty unloading equipment, this service can be essential.
Here’s a clear breakdown of what tailgate delivery means, when you need it, and how it fits into your shipping strategy.
Tailgate Delivery: What It Actually Is
Tailgate delivery (also known as curbside or dock-level delivery) refers to a freight shipping service where the driver brings your shipment to the back of the truck, lowers it to the ground using a liftgate (if available), and leaves it at the nearest accessible point — usually curbside, driveway, or the edge of your loading area.
The key point: it does not include moving the shipment inside, upstairs, or through doorways.
For businesses or locations without a dock or equipment like pallet jacks or forklifts, tailgate delivery is a useful option. It bridges the gap between full freight transport and last-mile white-glove service, offering a practical solution for heavy or oversized items that can’t be manually lifted off a truck.
When You Might Need Tailgate Delivery
Tailgate delivery is ideal in scenarios where the receiving location can’t accommodate traditional freight unloading. Here are some common examples:
- Your facility doesn’t have a loading dock
- You’re receiving large pallets, crates, or equipment
- You don’t have a forklift or unloading team on-site
- The delivery is going to a residential or small business address
This is especially common for deliveries to retail stores, restaurants, workshops, and homes receiving commercial shipments. It allows the shipment to arrive safely and be lowered to ground level without requiring advanced handling equipment on-site.
Related Article: What’s the Difference Between a Skid, a Pallet, and a Crate?
At Roadlinx, we often recommend tailgate delivery to clients whose locations aren’t set up for traditional freight unloading. It saves time, reduces damage risk, and ensures the delivery can happen even without a full warehouse setup.
What’s Included in a Tailgate Delivery
Here’s what you can expect from standard tailgate delivery:
- The truck arrives at your location at the scheduled time.
- The driver brings the freight to the back of the truck.
- The freight is lowered to the ground using a liftgate if available.
- The shipment is placed at the edge of the delivery site (curb, driveway, or loading area).
The driver’s responsibility typically ends there. Tailgate delivery does not include unpacking, bringing items indoors, or removing packaging material.
It’s important to plan accordingly. If you need help moving the items indoors, consider arranging your own crew or inquire about additional delivery options through your freight provider.
What’s Not Included (And Why It Matters)
Tailgate delivery is not a full-service or inside delivery. It does not include:
- Bring the shipment into your building.
- Moving items upstairs or into specific rooms.
- Assembling, unpacking, or setting up.
- Disposing of crates or pallets.
These limitations are intentional. Freight drivers are trained to transport and unload safely, but not to handle interior moves or navigate tight doorways or staircases. Trying to push beyond the service level can lead to delays or damage.
If you require a more hands-on delivery, such as white-glove service or specialized handling, it’s best to discuss this in advance with your shipping provider. At Roadlinx, we offer flexible options that can be customized to meet your unloading needs.
Related Article: White Glove Delivery Service in Logistics: What Is It?
Tailgate vs. Dock Delivery: Know the Difference
Many businesses assume all deliveries include unloading, but that’s not always the case.
Dock delivery assumes you have a raised loading dock that aligns with the trailer height. This setup allows the forklift or pallet jack to transfer freight directly from the truck into the warehouse.
If you don’t have that setup, tailgate delivery becomes necessary. It ensures your shipment can be safely lowered to ground level without needing a dock or special machinery.
Think of tailgate delivery as the solution between full-service and self-managed. It’s efficient, safe, and ideal for businesses that need help with that last bit of unloading but don’t require full installation or setup.
Is Tailgate Delivery Right for Your Business?
Tailgate delivery works well for a wide range of industries and scenarios. You may benefit from it if:
- You’re receiving heavy items like appliances, machinery, or bulk goods
- Your site doesn’t have loading dock access
- You’re managing deliveries to residential clients or smaller storefronts
- You need reliable ground-level unloading, but can handle the rest
It’s a simple add-on that can prevent major headaches like being stuck with a full truck of goods and no way to unload them.
At Roadlinx, we always ask our clients about their delivery site setup in advance. That way, we can recommend the right delivery method and avoid last-minute delays or extra fees.
Related Article: What Is a Liftgate Delivery Service? How It Works
How to Prepare for a Tailgate Delivery
A little planning goes a long way. If you’ve arranged a tailgate delivery, here’s how to prepare:
- Clear the drop-off area: Make sure there’s space at street level or in your driveway for the delivery to be safely completed.
- Notify your team: Have someone available to receive the shipment and inspect it for damage.
- Bring equipment if needed: If you need to move pallets or crates indoors, make sure you have a dolly or pallet jack ready.
- Inspect and sign carefully: Check the delivery against your invoice before signing. If there’s damage, note it on the delivery receipt.
Tailgate delivery is fast and convenient as long as the receiving party is ready for it.
Simplify Deliveries with the Right Freight Option
In freight logistics, the final step can be the most overlooked. Tailgate delivery solves a common problem: how to get heavy freight safely onto the ground when there’s no loading dock or forklift on site.
Whether you’re shipping large items to a residential address, stocking a retail location, or managing commercial deliveries across multiple sites, tailgate delivery gives you a practical, reliable option for ground-level drop-off.
At Roadlinx, we help businesses across North America choose the right shipping service every time, whether it’s full truckload, LTL, flatbed, or tailgate delivery. Need help planning your next shipment? Our team is ready to assist with expert advice, competitive rates, and flexible solutions that fit your schedule. Call us to get a free estimate.
