Getting a container to Los Angeles is only half the journey. For furniture, the last mile — from the port to a warehouse, store or living room — often decides whether the customer is happy and whether your DDP price was right.
Four common delivery models
| Model | How it works | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Direct to importer's warehouse | Full container trucked from port | Unloading time limits, detention charges |
| 3PL warehouse | Stored and shipped per order | Storage and handling fees per pallet/carton |
| Amazon FBA / marketplace DCs | Delivered by appointment in line with marketplace rules | Oversize limits, labelling, strict appointment windows |
| White-glove home delivery | Delivered inside, unpacked, assembled | Higher cost; damage-free packing essential |
LTL freight for smaller drops
Orders of a few pallets usually move by LTL (less-than-truckload) carriers across the US. Pricing depends on freight class, which is driven by density — light, bulky furniture often falls into higher classes. Accurate dimensions avoid reclassification charges.
Accessorial charges to include in DDP
- Liftgate (no loading dock)
- Residential delivery
- Appointment / notification
- Inside delivery
Canada
For Canadian buyers, containers usually arrive via Vancouver and move by rail to Toronto or Montreal, then by truck. See shipping to Canada.
We coordinate delivery to warehouses, retailers, Amazon FBA and homes across the US and Canada. See our USA & Canada service or request a door-to-door quote.