What To Expect When Your Cabinet Doors Ship
Have your cabinet doors shipped? Learn what to expect from multiple carriers and how the process works at Cutting Edge.
Whether you’re a cabinet maker, contractor, or homeowner, you’re here because you need cabinet doors. But what happens once they ship? Will they arrive on time, in good shape, and with clear communication from the supplier? The truth is, shipments that take weeks or arrive damaged can cause serious headaches. They delay projects, hold up payments, and even hurt your reputation with clients.
At Cutting Edge, we’ve produced and shipped custom cabinet doors for over 20 years. Every day, we ship an average of 600 cabinet doors across Canada. We’ve seen firsthand how shipping standards differ from one supplier to another, and we’ve worked hard to simplify the process for our customers.
In this article, you’ll learn exactly what to expect when your cabinet doors ship and how to clarify your expectations regardless of who you work with.
What Happens After a Cabinet Door Supplier Ships Your Cabinet Doors
Once your cabinet doors are built, it’s natural to wonder what happens next. Here’s what you can expect from most cabinet door suppliers during the shipping process.
Your Cabinet Door Supplier Will Select the Best Shipping Option
Yes, your cabinet door supplier will use the best shipping option. However, every supplier defines the best shipping option differently. Some aim for the lowest cost, others for speed, and some only use one shipping company.
A good supplier will strike a balance between affordability and fast delivery, choosing the most efficient option for your order. This helps your cabinet doors arrive safely and on time, without unnecessary shipping fees.
You’ll Receive Notification That Your Cabinet Doors Have Shipped
Most cabinet door suppliers send an email once your cabinet doors leave their facility. But not all emails include a tracking number, which can leave you wondering where your shipment is and when it’ll arrive.
Look for a supplier that communicates clearly and on time, including a shipping confirmation and tracking link. This information helps you stay ahead of project timelines and plan installations without delays.
Your Cabinet Doors Typically Arrive Within 1–5 Business Days
Delivery timelines vary depending on the location and shipping method. On average, most cabinet doors arrive within one to five business days.
Here’s what that can look like:
| Shipping Type | Examples | Typical Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| LTL Freight | Manitoulin, Jay’s Transport, VanKam, ACE | 1–3 business days |
| Courier | Purolator, Canada Post | 3–5 business days |
Most suppliers can provide an estimated transit time once your order is ready to ship. Ask for this information upfront so you can schedule your work accordingly.
Inspect Your Cabinet Doors Upon Arrival
No one wants to deal with damaged cabinet doors, especially when you’re on a deadline. However, freight damage can happen, and many suppliers offer only limited warranties that require quick reporting.
To protect yourself, it’s smart to inspect your shipment immediately. Start by checking the exterior of all packing for any dents, scratches, crumple marks, or holes. Take pictures if you notice any damage to the exterior, and sign the waybill as damaged.
Reliable suppliers will support you through the process and help resolve any issues quickly. However, providing detailed pictures and information gives you the best chance of a smooth outcome.
How To Learn What To Expect When Having Cabinet Doors Shipped
Not all cabinet door suppliers handle shipping the same way, making it hard to know what to expect. Whether you’re ordering for a home renovation or managing a large-scale client job, knowing the right questions to ask helps you avoid delays and surprises.
When you understand how shipping works, you’re more likely to receive your doors on time, undamaged, and with fewer project setbacks.
Ask The Right Questions Before Ordering Cabinet Doors
Before you confirm your order, take a few minutes to ask your cabinet door supplier the following:
- What shipping companies do you use? A trustworthy supplier should name several carriers they work with and explain when each one is used.
- Do you send tracking numbers with every order? Ideally, your supplier will – and mention when and how you’ll receive the tracking info.
- How long will delivery take to my area? A good answer will include an estimated range based on your postal code and chosen shipping method.
- What should I do if a shipment arrives damaged? Your supplier should walk you through the process, including who to contact, timelines, and requirements.
- Will I be notified if there’s a delay? A reliable partner will say yes, and outline how they communicate delays (email, phone, etc.).
A supplier that answers these questions clearly is more likely to prioritize communication and reliability – two things that help your project run smoothly from start to finish.
How to Protect Your Shipment Once It Ships
Even with a great supplier, things can go wrong in transit. Taking a few extra steps on your end helps protect your investment and keeps things moving forward.
Here’s what you can do to ensure a smooth delivery:
- Double-check your delivery address before placing the order
- Be available to receive the shipment, especially for large orders
- Inspect your cabinet doors immediately upon arrival
- If there’s any damage, take photos and notify the supplier and the shipping company right away
Doing this catches problems early and provides your supplier with what they need to avoid delays. When both sides work together, you’re far more likely to keep your project on schedule and stress-free.
Learn How To Get Started With Cutting Edge
At the end of the day, all you really want is for your cabinet doors to arrive on time, in great shape, and without any surprises. You came here looking for clarity. Now, you know what to expect, what to ask, and how to protect your order along the way.
Shipping delays and damaged deliveries don’t have to be your norm. You deserve a partner who keeps your project on track and respects your time. If you’re ready to work with a supplier who values reliability, craftsmanship, and clear communication, learn how to get started with Cutting Edge.
