A commercial refrigerator arrives at your restaurant on a pallet.
The unit is 35 inches deep.
Your kitchen doorway is 36 inches wide.
With the cardboard, foam, pallet, and protective corner pieces still attached, the shipment is several inches larger.
Should you unbox the equipment outside before trying to move it through the door?
Sometimes, but not automatically.
The safest general approach is:
- Measure the complete delivery path before the equipment arrives.
- Inspect the shipment for freight damage before removing packaging.
- Remove only the packaging necessary to inspect or gain needed clearance.
- Keep the equipment on its shipping skid or pallet as long as practical when the manufacturer recommends it.
- Do not remove shipping braces, door restraints, or protective components prematurely.
- Move the equipment as close to its final location as possible before completely unpacking it.
Commercial restaurant equipment packaging does more than make the unit look neat during shipping.
It may protect:
- Doors
- Glass
- Stainless steel panels
- Controls
- Casters
- Compressors
- Handles
- Trim
- Other vulnerable components
Removing everything in the parking lot can make the equipment smaller, but it also removes much of that protection before the most difficult part of the move.
The better question is not simply:
"Should we unbox it?"
It is:
"How much packaging needs to come off, and when?"
The Short Answer
If the equipment fits through the entire delivery path while still protected, leave as much protective packaging in place as practical until the unit is close to its final location.
If the packaged equipment will not clear a doorway but the bare equipment will, carefully removing some outer packaging may be necessary.
However, do not immediately remove:
- The pallet or skid
- Shipping brackets
- Glass-door restraints
- Protective blocks
- Manufacturer-installed transit hardware
unless the equipment instructions say it is appropriate.
Packaging Can Add Several Inches to Equipment Dimensions
Restaurant owners often look only at the equipment dimensions listed on a product page.
For example:
Equipment width: 29 inches
Equipment depth: 32 inches
Equipment height: 83 inches
Those dimensions describe the equipment itself.
The shipment may arrive larger because of:
- Cardboard
- Foam corner protectors
- Wooden framing
- Plastic wrap
- A pallet
- A shipping skid
- Protective braces
This is why restaurant owners should look for both:
Equipment dimensions
and:
Packaged or shipping dimensions.
Equipment Dimensions and Shipping Dimensions Are Different
| Measurement | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Equipment Width | Width of the actual unit |
| Equipment Depth | Depth of the actual unit |
| Equipment Height | Height of the actual unit |
| Packaged Width | Width including shipping protection |
| Packaged Depth | Depth including shipping protection |
| Packaged Height | Height including pallet, skid, carton, or crate |
| Shipping Weight | Equipment plus packaging and shipping materials |
Measure Before the Truck Arrives
The best time to discover that a refrigerator does not fit through the kitchen doorway is:
before you order it.
The second-best time is:
before the freight truck arrives.
The worst time is when the unit is already sitting in the parking lot.
Measure the Entire Delivery Path
Do not measure only the final kitchen doorway.
Measure every restriction between the unloading area and the equipment's final position.
This can include:
- Exterior entrance
- Vestibule
- Interior doors
- Hallways
- Kitchen door
- Tight corners
- Elevators
- Stairs
- Ramps
- Low ceilings
- Overhead pipes
- Door closers
- Thresholds
The Narrowest Point Controls the Delivery
Your front door may be 42 inches wide.
That does not matter if the hallway leading to the kitchen narrows to 33 inches.
Likewise, a 36-inch kitchen door may technically provide enough width, but the approach may include a tight 90-degree corner that prevents a long piece of equipment from turning through the opening.
Door Width Alone Is Not Enough
Restaurant equipment has three dimensions:
- Width
- Depth
- Height
A unit that is too wide in one orientation may fit if carefully rotated.
For example, a refrigerator might be:
54 inches wide × 32 inches deep.
You obviously cannot push the 54-inch face through a 36-inch doorway.
But if the unit can safely be turned, its 32-inch depth may clear the door.
That Does Not Mean Every Unit Can Simply Be Turned Sideways
Before changing equipment orientation, consider:
- Manufacturer handling instructions
- Center of gravity
- Door protection
- Compressor location
- Equipment height
- Available turning space
Commercial equipment can be extremely heavy and unstable if handled incorrectly.
Commercial Refrigerators Require Special Care
A large commercial refrigerator may contain:
- Compressor
- Condenser
- Evaporator
- Refrigerant piping
- Fans
- Electronic controls
- Glass or solid doors
It is not simply a large metal cabinet.
Do not tilt, lay down, or otherwise reposition commercial refrigeration unless the manufacturer permits it.
If refrigeration has been transported in an unusual orientation, follow the manufacturer's startup instructions before powering the unit.
Why Leaving Packaging On Can Be Better
Imagine moving a brand-new stainless steel refrigerator through:
- A doorway
- A hallway
- A narrow kitchen
- A tight corner
Without packaging, every wall edge and door frame can potentially touch the finished stainless steel.
Protective materials can help prevent:
- Scratches
- Dents
- Scuffs
- Broken glass
- Damaged handles
The Hardest Part of the Journey May Be Inside Your Building
The manufacturer has already protected the equipment for:
- Warehouse handling
- Truck transportation
- Freight terminals
- Forklift movement
Then the shipment arrives safely.
If you completely unbox it outside and immediately scrape the stainless steel against your door frame, that protection was removed right before one of the most difficult parts of the move.
Why You Might Need to Remove the Outer Carton
There are still situations where unboxing is necessary.
The most common reason is clearance.
For example:
Packaged depth: 37 inches
Door opening: 36 inches
Bare equipment depth: 33 inches
The equipment cannot enter while fully packaged.
Removing:
- Cardboard
- Foam
- Corner protection
may provide enough clearance.
Outer Packaging and Shipping Skid Are Not the Same Thing
This distinction is extremely important.
Outer Packaging
May include:
- Cardboard
- Plastic wrap
- Styrofoam
- Foam corners
Shipping Skid or Pallet
Is the structural base underneath the equipment.
Removing the outer carton does not necessarily mean you should immediately remove the skid.
Keep the Shipping Skid as Long as Practical
The skid can make heavy equipment much easier to move using:
- Pallet jack
- Forklift
- Other suitable material-handling equipment
Once you remove the unit from the skid, you may lose one of the easiest ways to move it safely.
Move It Close to the Final Position Before Removing the Skid
This is an excellent general approach for large equipment when consistent with the manufacturer's instructions.
For example:
- Receive the refrigerator.
- Inspect the packaging.
- Remove outer cardboard if necessary.
- Keep the unit secured to the shipping skid.
- Use suitable equipment to move it through the building.
- Bring it close to the installation area.
- Then remove the skid according to the manufacturer's procedure.
Why Removing the Skid Too Early Can Be a Mistake
Once the equipment is sitting directly on:
- Temporary shipping feet
- Permanent legs
- Casters
- The equipment base
it may become more difficult to move long distances.
A pallet jack cannot simply slide underneath equipment that no longer has pallet clearance.
Do Not Lift Equipment by the Doors
When the pallet is removed, employees may look for something convenient to grab.
That often means:
- Door handles
- Doors
- Drawer fronts
- Countertops
- Grilles
These may not be designed as lifting points.
Use the manufacturer-approved handling method.
Never Assume the Handle Can Support the Equipment Weight
A refrigerator door handle is designed to open a door.
It is not necessarily designed to support hundreds of pounds of equipment during a move.
What Are Shipping Brackets?
Some commercial equipment includes temporary components that protect moving parts during transportation.
These may include:
- Door brackets
- Shipping blocks
- Transit screws
- Compressor restraints
- Glass-door supports
- Internal packing materials
Do Not Remove Shipping Hardware Just Because You Removed the Box
This is one of the most important delivery lessons.
The outer carton may need to come off to fit through a doorway.
That does not mean every protective component should come off.
Some manufacturers specifically instruct installers to leave certain door restraints or shipping blocks in place until the appliance reaches its final location.
Why Would Door Restraints Stay On?
They can help prevent doors from:
- Swinging open
- Sliding unexpectedly
- Moving during transportation
- Striking a wall
- Coming off alignment
while the equipment is being moved.
Glass-Door Refrigeration Needs Extra Protection
A glass-door refrigerator or merchandiser can be especially vulnerable while moving through a narrow building.
Removing every shipping restraint before moving the unit may allow the doors to:
- Swing
- Slide
- Strike objects
- Become damaged
Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Should You Remove the Equipment Doors to Get Through the Doorway?
Sometimes removable equipment doors can provide additional clearance.
But this should not be your first improvisation.
Before removing doors:
- Read the manufacturer manual
- Confirm that the door is designed to be removed
- Understand hinge or wiring connections
- Protect the door after removal
- Follow the correct reinstallation procedure
Some Commercial Refrigerator Doors Are Removable
Depending on the manufacturer and model, doors may have specific removal procedures.
However, the process can involve:
- Hinges
- Tension systems
- Door cords
- Electrical connections
- Glass panels
This is not always equivalent to lifting a household refrigerator door off its hinges.
Do Not Start Unscrewing Parts Randomly
If the equipment is one inch too wide, it can be tempting to remove:
- Handles
- Doors
- Hinges
- Panels
without checking the manual.
That can create:
- Alignment problems
- Damaged wiring
- Door-seal problems
- Warranty issues
- Missing hardware
Sometimes Removing the Door Handle Is Enough
If clearance is extremely close, a projecting handle can be the difference between fitting and not fitting.
But again, verify that the handle is intended to be removed and reinstalled.
Measure the Actual Door Opening
A door advertised as a 36-inch door does not necessarily provide a full 36 inches of usable clearance.
The usable opening may be reduced by:
- Door slab
- Hinges
- Door stop
- Trim
- Closer hardware
- Threshold
Measure the actual clear opening.
Open the Door Fully Before Measuring
If a door can open only 90 degrees because a wall blocks it, the door itself may occupy part of the opening.
A door that can swing 180 degrees may provide more usable clearance.
Sometimes Removing the Building Door Helps
In some cases, removing a building door from its hinges provides additional clearance without modifying the restaurant equipment.
This may be easier than disassembling an expensive refrigerator.
However, the work should still be performed carefully and the doorway protected during the move.
Door Trim Can Be the Real Problem
The structural rough opening may be large enough, while decorative trim reduces the usable space.
Measure what the equipment will actually pass through, not the size shown on a building plan.
Do Not Forget Height
Door width gets most of the attention, but height can also stop a delivery.
Large equipment may arrive on a pallet that adds several inches to overall height.
Potential overhead restrictions include:
- Door headers
- Sprinkler pipes
- Exit signs
- Ceiling lights
- Ductwork
- Low hallway ceilings
Removing the Pallet Can Reduce Height
Sometimes a unit fits in width but is too tall while sitting on its shipping skid.
Removing the skid may provide several inches of vertical clearance.
But if you must do this, plan how the equipment will be supported and moved afterward.
Do Not Remove the Skid Without a Moving Plan
Ask:
"Once this pallet is gone, how are we moving the next 30 feet?"
If nobody has an answer, do not remove it yet.
Use Professional Equipment Movers When Necessary
Large restaurant equipment is not the ideal project for:
"Four guys can probably carry it."
Professional equipment movers may use:
- Appliance dollies
- Machinery skates
- Lift equipment
- Straps
- Protective blankets
- Floor protection
- Specialized rigging
Equipment Weight Can Be Deceptive
A unit may look manageable because it has a stainless steel exterior.
Inside may be:
- Compressors
- Cast-iron burners
- Insulation
- Motors
- Stone components
- Heavy structural frames
Commercial equipment can weigh hundreds of pounds.
Large Ranges Are Extremely Heavy
A commercial range can include:
- Cast iron burner grates
- Steel oven cavities
- Burners
- Manifolds
- Heavy stainless panels
If you are ordering from Nishi's commercial ovens and ranges, plan the delivery route before the equipment reaches the building.
Commercial Refrigerators Can Be Tall and Top-Heavy
A reach-in refrigerator can combine significant height with substantial weight.
That can make:
- Turning
- Tilting
- Moving across thresholds
more difficult than simply moving an equally heavy low piece of equipment.
Freezers Create Similar Challenges
Large reach-in freezers often require the same delivery planning as refrigerators.
Before ordering, check:
- Cabinet width
- Depth
- Height
- Shipping weight
- Packaged dimensions
- Door swing
Tandoors Need Delivery Planning Too
A commercial tandoor may contain:
- Clay body
- Insulation
- Steel outer shell
- Burner components
The combination can make the equipment very heavy.
Even when the final tandoor has casters, it may arrive packaged or palletized.
Do Not Assume Casters Mean Easy Delivery
Casters help after the equipment is:
- Unpacked
- Properly assembled
- On a suitable finished floor
They do not help while the unit is still sitting four feet above the ground inside a freight trailer.
They also do not automatically solve:
- Doorways
- Stairs
- Curbs
- Rough pavement
What About Commercial Wet Grinders?
Commercial stone wet grinders can also be extremely heavy because of their stone grinding components.
Do not remove packaging and then attempt to carry one casually through the building without understanding its weight and handling requirements.
Inspect Before You Unbox
Before cutting off cardboard and stretch wrap, look at the entire shipment.
Check for:
- Crushed corners
- Torn cardboard
- Punctures
- Broken pallet boards
- Equipment leaning on the skid
- Damaged shrink wrap
- Impact marks
- Missing pieces
Visible Damage Should Be Documented
If a corner of the carton is crushed, take photographs before removing the packaging.
The condition of the shipping materials can help show what happened during transit.
Do Not Throw Packaging Away Immediately
If damage is discovered, the packaging may be useful for:
- Freight documentation
- Damage inspection
- Claims
- Determining how the impact occurred
Keep relevant packaging until you know the equipment is undamaged and the applicable claim period or inspection process is satisfied.
Outer Packaging Can Hide Concealed Damage
A carton can look mostly normal while the stainless steel underneath is:
- Dented
- Scratched
- Bent
This is why removing enough packaging to inspect the equipment is important.
You Need to Balance Inspection With Protection
There are two competing goals:
Goal 1: Inspect the Equipment
You need to know whether freight damage occurred.
Goal 2: Protect the Equipment
You still have to move it through the building.
The best solution is often to remove the outer packaging for inspection while retaining useful protective components and the skid during the move.
Photograph the Equipment After Removing the Outer Packaging
Before moving the unit through the restaurant, take pictures of:
- Front
- Back
- Left side
- Right side
- Top where visible
- Any damaged areas
- Shipping label
This creates a record of the condition in which it arrived.
This Can Help Distinguish Freight Damage From Moving Damage
Suppose the refrigerator arrives without a dent.
Then after moving it through the restaurant, a dent appears on the side.
Photographs from before the interior move can help determine when the damage occurred.
What If the Box Looks Damaged?
Do not simply remove the box and throw it away.
Instead:
- Photograph the damaged packaging.
- Follow the carrier's freight-receiving procedure.
- Note visible damage as required.
- Carefully inspect the equipment underneath.
- Contact the seller promptly if damage is found.
Nishi Customers Should Document Damage Immediately
If equipment purchased from Nishi arrives damaged, photograph visible damage before taking further action or discarding packaging and contact Nishi as soon as possible.
Refer to the current Nishi Enterprise FAQ and shipping policy for the applicable receiving instructions.
Should You Sign for Damaged Equipment?
Follow the seller and freight carrier's instructions.
Do not sign a delivery receipt as though everything is perfect when obvious damage is present.
Visible damage should be documented according to the carrier's procedure.
"Subject to Inspection" May Not Be Enough
When documenting freight damage, be specific.
For example:
Better:
"Lower right carton corner crushed, pallet broken, stainless side panel visibly dented."
instead of:
"Box damaged."
Do Not Confuse Unboxing With Installation
Getting the equipment through the door is only one stage.
You may still need to:
- Install legs
- Install casters
- Remove shipping restraints
- Level the unit
- Connect electrical service
- Connect gas
- Connect water
- Connect drainage
- Verify ventilation
The requirements depend on the equipment.
Some Equipment Ships With Parts Removed
To reduce shipping size or protect components, manufacturers may ship items such as:
- Legs
- Casters
- Shelves
- Handles
- Backsplashes
- Accessories
inside the equipment or separately in the carton.
Do not throw out packaging until all parts are accounted for.
Look Inside Before Discarding Cardboard
Small hardware can be easy to miss.
Boxes may contain:
- Screws
- Brackets
- Shelf clips
- Casters
- Feet
- Manuals
- Drain components
Check the Packing List
Before throwing anything away, confirm that the shipment includes all:
- Accessories
- Loose components
- Shelves
- Hardware
that should be supplied with the equipment.
Should You Install Casters Before Moving Through the Building?
It depends on the equipment and manufacturer instructions.
Casters can make final positioning easier.
However, the shipping skid may provide better support during the longest portion of the move.
Some manufacturers provide a specific procedure for installing casters or legs while the equipment remains supported by the shipping skid.
Follow the Manufacturer Procedure
Do not:
- Lay the unit on its side
- Tip it excessively
- Lift it by a weak component
simply because you need to install casters.
What If the Equipment Fits With the Box On?
If the shipment:
- Fits through every doorway
- Can turn every corner
- Fits in the elevator
- Has adequate overhead clearance
then keeping protective materials on during most of the move can make sense.
You can still remove enough packaging initially to inspect the equipment for concealed damage.
What If It Fits Only After the Cardboard Comes Off?
This is a common situation.
A practical process may be:
- Inspect the outer packaging.
- Photograph the shipment.
- Remove cardboard and foam carefully.
- Inspect exposed equipment.
- Keep shipping restraints in place as required.
- Keep the skid if practical.
- Add temporary moving protection such as appropriate blankets where needed.
- Move through the building.
Replace Lost Protection With Moving Protection
If cardboard must be removed to gain clearance, protect exposed finished surfaces during the move.
Professional movers may use:
- Moving blankets
- Protective pads
- Edge protection
- Straps
- Floor protection
without adding excessive width.
Do Not Wrap Equipment So Tightly That You Damage It
Protective straps and padding should be applied appropriately.
Do not place excessive pressure on:
- Glass doors
- Control panels
- Thin stainless panels
- Door handles
What If It Fits Only After Removing the Skid?
This requires more planning.
You need to determine:
- How much height or width the skid is adding
- How the unit will be supported once removed
- How you will move it afterward
- Whether the manufacturer allows the required handling
Do not remove the skid and then realize the equipment has no casters installed and weighs 700 pounds.
What If It Fits Only After Removing a Door?
First determine whether you mean:
The Building Door
Removing the building door may provide additional clearance.
The Equipment Door
Removing the equipment door may also reduce width or depth, but only if the manufacturer provides an appropriate procedure.
Usually, removing a simple building obstruction is preferable to unnecessarily disassembling expensive equipment, provided it can be done safely.
What If It Still Does Not Fit?
Stop.
Do not force the equipment through the opening.
Possible solutions might include:
- Another building entrance
- Removing an appropriate building door
- Professional door-frame removal
- Manufacturer-approved equipment door removal
- Rigging through another access point
- Returning or exchanging the equipment
Do Not Use a Doorway as a Hydraulic Press
If a unit is 36.25 inches wide and the opening is 36 inches, hitting it harder will not create the missing quarter inch.
You will likely damage:
- Equipment
- Building
- Both
Watch the Floor During the Move
Heavy equipment can damage:
- Tile
- Vinyl flooring
- Wood
- Thresholds
Use appropriate floor protection and moving equipment.
New Restaurant Floors Can Be Especially Vulnerable
A restaurant under construction may have just installed expensive finished flooring.
Dragging palletized restaurant equipment across it can cause damage before the restaurant even opens.
Thresholds Can Stop Pallet Jacks
A seemingly small raised doorway threshold can be difficult for a heavily loaded pallet jack to cross.
Inspect the route beforehand.
Elevator Size Matters
If the restaurant is not on the ground floor, measure:
- Elevator door width
- Elevator door height
- Cab width
- Cab depth
- Weight capacity
The unit may fit through the elevator doorway but still be too long to rotate inside the cab.
Freight Elevators Are Different From Passenger Elevators
A commercial building may have a dedicated freight elevator with:
- Larger doors
- Greater capacity
- More durable interior
Ask the building manager before scheduling delivery.
Measure Tight Corners
A long refrigerator can fit comfortably down a hallway but fail at the final 90-degree turn.
Consider the turning radius, not just hallway width.
Think About Equipment Like Moving a Sofa
A sofa might fit through a door but not around a corner.
Commercial equipment creates the same geometric problem, except it may weigh five times more.
Check the Final Installation Space Too
Passing through the door is not enough.
The equipment still needs:
- Operating clearance
- Ventilation clearance
- Door swing
- Utility connections
- Service access
according to manufacturer requirements.
A Refrigerator That Fits Physically May Still Not Fit Operationally
For example, you might squeeze a refrigerator into a 32-inch-deep space.
But if the manufacturer requires additional clearance for:
- Airflow
- Condenser access
- Door operation
- Service
the installation may still be incorrect.
Do Not Remove Protective Film Too Early
Some stainless steel equipment arrives with protective plastic film on finished surfaces.
Unless the manufacturer says otherwise, leaving that film on during positioning can provide useful scratch protection.
Remove it before operating the equipment if required by the manufacturer.
Protective Film Is Not the Same as Shipping Packaging
The unit may have several protection layers:
- Outer carton
- Foam protection
- Shipping blocks
- Protective stainless film
They do not all need to be removed at the same stage.
Do Not Operate Equipment With Packaging Still Attached
Once the equipment is positioned for installation, remove:
- Required shipping materials
- Internal packing
- Protective materials the manufacturer says to remove
before operation.
Packaging left near:
- Heat
- Burners
- Heating elements
- Fans
- Air intakes
can create equipment damage or safety problems.
Check Inside Ovens Before Turning Them On
Commercial ovens may contain packed components inside the oven cavity.
Before startup, look for:
- Racks
- Legs
- Casters
- Manuals
- Cardboard
- Plastic
- Accessories
Remove packaging according to the manufacturer's installation instructions before applying heat.
Check Refrigerators Before Plugging Them In
Remove internal shipping materials such as:
- Foam
- Tape
- Shelf restraints
- Protective packaging
according to the manual.
Install shelves and other components correctly before loading food.
Do Not Use the Equipment Immediately Just Because It Is Unboxed
Unboxing is not commissioning.
Commercial equipment may need:
- Leveling
- Utility connection
- Professional installation
- Startup procedure
- Temperature verification
- Burner adjustment
- Manufacturer-required checks
Gas Equipment Requires Proper Installation
A commercial:
- Range
- Fryer
- Charbroiler
- Stock pot range
- Tandoor
should be connected in accordance with manufacturer instructions and applicable codes.
Removing it from the pallet does not mean it is ready to cook.
Electrical Equipment Needs the Correct Power
Before connecting equipment, verify:
- Voltage
- Phase
- Amperage
- Plug configuration
- Circuit requirements
Do not assume that because the plug physically reaches an outlet, the electrical service is correct.
Water-Connected Equipment Needs More Planning
Equipment such as certain:
- Ice machines
- Combi ovens
- Dishwashers
- Steam equipment
may require:
- Water supply
- Drainage
- Filtration
- Other installation components
Before Delivery, Make a Doorway Checklist
Write down:
| Location | Clear Width | Clear Height | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exterior Door | _____ | _____ | Door opens fully? |
| Hallway | _____ | _____ | Any tight turns? |
| Kitchen Door | _____ | _____ | Threshold? |
| Final Position | _____ | _____ | Utility clearance? |
Then Compare Against Two Sets of Equipment Dimensions
Write down:
| Measurement | Packaged | Unpacked |
|---|---|---|
| Width | _____ | _____ |
| Depth | _____ | _____ |
| Height | _____ | _____ |
Now you can determine whether:
- The fully packaged unit fits
- Only the outer packaging must come off
- The skid creates a height problem
- Professional disassembly may be necessary
A Practical Decision Tree
Question 1: Does the Packaged Equipment Fit Through the Entire Route?
Yes: Keep protective packaging on as long as practical, while still completing the required freight inspection.
No: Continue to Question 2.
Question 2: Does the Bare Equipment Fit?
Yes: Carefully remove enough outer packaging to create clearance while retaining useful shipping protection and the skid where appropriate.
No: Continue to Question 3.
Question 3: Can a Building Door or Obstruction Be Safely Removed?
Yes: This may be easier than modifying the equipment.
No: Continue to Question 4.
Question 4: Can Manufacturer-Approved Equipment Components Be Removed?
Check whether:
- Doors
- Handles
- Casters
- Other components
can be removed using the manufacturer's documented procedure.
Question 5: Does It Still Not Fit?
Stop and reassess the equipment choice or delivery route.
Example 1: Refrigerator Fits While Boxed
Equipment:
29 inches deep unpacked
32 inches deep packaged
Door:
36-inch clear opening
The unit fits.
After inspecting for freight damage, you may be able to leave much of the protection in place while moving it near the installation area.
Example 2: Refrigerator Fits Only After Removing Cardboard
Equipment:
32 inches deep unpacked
37 inches deep packaged
Door:
35-inch clear opening
The shipping carton will not fit.
The bare unit should.
A reasonable plan is to:
- Inspect the carton.
- Photograph it.
- Remove outer packaging carefully.
- Inspect the exposed refrigerator.
- Keep required shipping restraints in place.
- Protect the stainless steel.
- Move it through the doorway.
Example 3: The Pallet Makes It Too Tall
Equipment height:
80 inches
Packaged on skid:
86 inches
Door height:
84 inches
Width is fine, but the skid creates the problem.
You may need to remove the unit from the skid before entering.
However, first determine how the 80-inch-tall unit will be safely moved once the pallet is gone.
Example 4: Bare Equipment Still Does Not Fit
Equipment:
38 inches deep
Clear doorway:
35 inches
Removing cardboard does not solve the problem.
Now you need to investigate:
- Alternative entrances
- Building-door removal
- Manufacturer-approved equipment-door removal
- Professional rigging
- Different equipment
Example 5: Tight Hallway Corner
The refrigerator is only 32 inches deep.
The doorway is 36 inches.
It looks fine on paper.
But immediately after the door is a narrow hallway with a 90-degree turn.
The 54-inch-long refrigerator cannot rotate through the corner.
This is why measuring only the door is not enough.
What About Restaurant Equipment Delivered Through a Storefront?
Restaurants in shopping centers may have:
- Glass storefront doors
- Narrow vestibules
- Decorative entrance hardware
- Limited rear access
The public front entrance may not be suitable for commercial equipment delivery.
Check whether the building has:
- Rear service door
- Loading corridor
- Service elevator
- Delivery entrance
Ask the Landlord or Building Manager
If you are inside a:
- Mall
- Shopping center
- Office building
- Hotel
- Mixed-use property
there may already be rules regarding:
- Delivery hours
- Freight entrances
- Elevators
- Floor protection
- Contractor insurance
Construction Sites Need Extra Planning
A new restaurant may not yet have:
- Finished floors
- Permanent doors
- Clear walkways
- Working elevators
Coordinate major equipment deliveries with the general contractor.
Sometimes Earlier Delivery Is Easier
Large equipment may be easier to bring into a building before:
- Final door frames
- Partitions
- Bars
- Service counters
- Other equipment
restrict the delivery route.
This should be coordinated as part of the construction schedule.
But Do Not Deliver Too Early
Equipment sitting on a construction site can be exposed to:
- Dust
- Paint
- Impact damage
- Theft
- Repeated movement
- Construction debris
The goal is to coordinate delivery at the right stage.
Should You Unbox Equipment in the Parking Lot?
Only when there is a reason.
Potential reasons include:
- Required freight inspection
- The packaged unit will not fit through the entrance
- The manufacturer instructs you to remove outer packaging before movement
But do not automatically strip every piece of protection just because the truck has unloaded it.
Weather Matters
If you unbox outside during:
- Rain
- Snow
- Heavy wind
the exposed equipment may be vulnerable.
Move the shipment to an appropriate protected area when possible before performing extensive unpacking.
Cardboard Packaging Can Also Become Slippery When Wet
Wet shipping materials can:
- Tear
- Collapse
- Create trip hazards
Plan receiving around weather when possible.
Should You Unbox Before Using a Pallet Jack?
You can often remove the outer carton while keeping the unit secured to its skid.
This lets you:
- Inspect the equipment
- Reduce packaged dimensions
- Continue using a pallet jack
when the equipment and manufacturer instructions allow.
This Is Often the Best Compromise
You get the benefits of:
- Smaller dimensions
- Damage inspection
- Continued palletized handling
without completely stripping the equipment down.
Do Not Cut Too Deeply When Opening the Carton
A utility knife can damage:
- Stainless steel
- Door gaskets
- Wiring
- Plastic trim
if the blade penetrates beyond the packaging.
Open packaging carefully.
Be Careful With Metal Staples
Wood crates and heavy cartons may contain:
- Staples
- Nails
- Banding
Remove or control sharp materials so they do not:
- Scratch equipment
- Damage flooring
- Injure employees
Shipping Bands Can Be Under Tension
If a shipment is secured with metal or plastic strapping, cut it carefully and keep people away from the path of the released band.
Keep the Work Area Clear While Unboxing
Large equipment can generate a surprising amount of:
- Cardboard
- Foam
- Plastic
- Wood
Do not leave those materials scattered along the equipment's moving path.
Should You Save the Shipping Pallet?
You may not need it once the equipment is fully installed and confirmed undamaged.
But do not immediately destroy the skid before:
- Inspecting equipment
- Completing the move
- Confirming all components are present
Some Shipping Components May Be Reusable
Certain manufacturers may recommend retaining specific:
- Shipping blocks
- Door braces
- Transit components
for future equipment movement.
Check the manual before discarding them.
What If You Plan to Move the Equipment Again?
This can happen when:
- A restaurant is still under construction
- The final equipment location is not ready
- The unit is temporarily stored
- A catering company relocates equipment
Keeping useful shipping protection may make the second move safer.
Do Not Fully Install Equipment in Temporary Storage
If the unit still needs to move again, avoid unnecessary:
- Disassembly
- Reassembly
- Utility connection
- Packaging removal
until the final location is ready, while still following the manufacturer's storage requirements.
What About Countertop Restaurant Equipment?
Smaller equipment such as:
- Microwaves
- Blenders
- Food processors
- Countertop warmers
usually presents fewer doorway problems.
However, inspect packaging for damage before discarding it and follow the manufacturer's setup instructions.
Large Equipment Is Where Planning Matters Most
Doorway planning is especially important for:
- Reach-in refrigerators
- Reach-in freezers
- Commercial ranges
- Pizza ovens
- Bakery cases
- Blast chillers
- Large prep tables
- Tandoors
- Wet grinders
Display Cases Can Be Particularly Fragile
A bakery display case may contain large pieces of glass.
Removing protective packaging before navigating a tight doorway can expose the glass to:
- Door frames
- Walls
- Other equipment
Use professional handling when appropriate.
Glass Equipment Is Not a Good Place to Improvise
If a glass display case barely fits, use a planned moving method.
Do not twist or force the cabinet through the opening.
Work Tables Are Easier but Still Need Planning
Commercial work tables may ship:
- Assembled
- Partially assembled
- With legs or undershelves removed
Because these components are simpler, disassembly may sometimes be easier.
Follow the product assembly instructions and keep all hardware organized.
Label Hardware During Disassembly
If an approved component must be removed to get through a door, use labeled containers for:
- Screws
- Bolts
- Washers
- Brackets
A missing $1 fastener can delay the installation of a $5,000 piece of equipment.
Take Photos Before Disassembling Anything
Photograph:
- Hinge position
- Bracket orientation
- Wire routing
- Hardware locations
before removing manufacturer-approved components.
Should You Remove Refrigerator Shelves Before Moving?
Loose interior components may need to be secured or removed according to manufacturer instructions.
You do not want:
- Shelves
- Shelf clips
- Drawers
bouncing around inside the cabinet during movement.
Do Not Load Food Before Final Positioning
Move and install the empty refrigerator first.
Loading it with food adds substantial weight and makes relocation more difficult.
Do Not Install Accessories That Increase Width Too Early
If optional:
- Side shelves
- Handles
- Accessories
increase the overall dimensions, install them after the unit clears the delivery path when allowed by the manufacturer.
Think About the Sequence
Good delivery planning is about doing steps in the correct order.
A reasonable sequence might be:
- Receive freight.
- Inspect shipment.
- Document damage.
- Remove necessary outer packaging.
- Retain required shipping restraints.
- Move unit as close to final location as practical.
- Remove skid.
- Install legs or casters.
- Remove remaining transit hardware.
- Position equipment.
- Level equipment.
- Complete utility installation.
- Perform startup procedures.
The Exact Order Depends on the Manufacturer
Use the installation manual for the specific model.
Do not assume that because this sequence works for one refrigerator, it applies identically to:
- Another refrigerator
- A range
- An oven
- A freezer
Read the Manual Before the Equipment Arrives
Restaurant owners often open the installation manual after they encounter a problem.
Read it beforehand.
Look specifically for sections called:
- Uncrating
- Receiving
- Installation
- Locating
- Moving
- Casters
- Leveling
Have the Manual Available During Delivery
If you need to remove:
- Shipping bolts
- Doors
- Skid
- Casters
you can follow the actual manufacturer procedure rather than guessing.
When Should You Fully Unbox the Equipment?
Generally, once:
- Freight inspection has been completed
- The equipment has reached or is close to its final location
- The remaining packaging is no longer needed for protection
- You are ready to follow the installation procedure
you can remove the remaining packaging according to manufacturer instructions.
Then Inspect It Again
Before installation, inspect:
- Cabinet
- Doors
- Controls
- Glass
- Power cord
- Gas components
- Casters or legs
- Interior
for damage or missing parts.
When Should You NOT Fully Unbox It?
Consider keeping some protection in place if:
- The equipment still has to travel a long distance through the building
- Construction is ongoing
- The final position is not ready
- The equipment must be stored temporarily
- The manufacturer says certain restraints must remain installed
A Simple Rule for Restaurant Owners
Remove enough packaging to inspect and fit.
Keep enough packaging to protect and move.
That is a better rule than either:
"Never unbox it until it reaches the kitchen."
or:
"Take everything off as soon as the truck leaves."
Should You Unbox Restaurant Equipment Before Moving It Through the Door?
The answer depends on clearance.
If it fits while protected:
Keep as much packaging in place as practical while completing the necessary damage inspection.
If only the outer packaging prevents it from fitting:
Remove the carton and foam carefully, inspect the equipment, and retain other useful protection.
If the shipping skid prevents it from fitting:
Determine how the equipment will be supported and moved after skid removal before taking it off.
If the bare equipment still does not fit:
Do not force it. Investigate another entrance, building-door removal, manufacturer-approved component removal, professional rigging, or another equipment model.
The Biggest Mistake Is Waiting Until Delivery Day to Think About It
Before purchasing large restaurant equipment, know:
- Equipment dimensions
- Packaged dimensions
- Shipping weight
- Door openings
- Hallway widths
- Turning space
- Elevator dimensions
- Final equipment location
That information should influence the buying decision.
A $10 Tape Measure Can Prevent a Very Expensive Problem
Measure twice before ordering equipment that may cost:
- $2,000
- $5,000
- $10,000
- More
A commercial refrigerator that is perfect for your menu is not the right refrigerator if there is no practical way to get it into the kitchen.
Shop Commercial Restaurant Equipment
Nishi Enterprise supplies commercial restaurant equipment for new restaurant projects, renovations, replacement equipment, catering kitchens, hotels, bakeries, cafés, and other foodservice operations.
Operators can browse Nishi's selection of:
- Commercial refrigerators
- Reach-in freezers
- Commercial ovens and ranges
- Commercial tandoors
- Stone wet grinders
- Bakery display cases
- Commercial work tables
When purchasing large equipment, check the dimensions and delivery requirements before ordering. If you are unsure whether a unit will fit through your building or how it will be shipped, contact Nishi Enterprise before the order is placed.
You can also review Nishi's current shipping policy for freight and delivery information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I unbox a commercial refrigerator before moving it through the door?
If it fits through the delivery route while protected, keeping useful packaging in place can help prevent damage. If the carton makes the shipment too large, you may need to remove the outer packaging while retaining the skid and required shipping restraints until the unit is closer to its final location.
Should I remove the pallet before moving restaurant equipment inside?
Not automatically. The pallet or skid often makes heavy equipment easier to move with a pallet jack or forklift. Remove it only when necessary and when you already have a safe plan for moving the equipment afterward.
Why should I keep restaurant equipment on the shipping skid?
The skid provides support and makes the unit compatible with material-handling equipment such as pallet jacks and forklifts. Some manufacturers specifically recommend moving equipment close to its final location before removing the skid.
Can I remove refrigerator doors to fit through a doorway?
Some commercial refrigerator doors can be removed, but only follow the procedure provided for the specific model. Door systems may include hinges, tension mechanisms, wiring, or other components that can be damaged by improper removal.
Can I remove the handles from commercial restaurant equipment?
Only when the manufacturer allows it and provides an appropriate procedure. Removing a projecting handle can sometimes provide needed clearance, but do not disassemble components randomly.
Should I remove the building door instead?
If removing the building door safely creates enough clearance, that can sometimes be simpler than disassembling expensive restaurant equipment. Evaluate the complete situation before choosing either approach.
How do I know whether equipment will fit through my restaurant door?
Measure the actual clear door opening and compare it with both the packaged and unpackaged equipment dimensions. Also measure hallways, corners, elevators, thresholds, and other restrictions along the complete delivery path.
Does a 36-inch door have 36 inches of usable clearance?
Not necessarily. Hinges, the door slab, trim, closers, and other hardware can reduce the actual clear opening. Measure the physical opening directly.
Should I inspect equipment before removing the box?
Inspect the exterior packaging first for signs of damage, document anything suspicious, and then carefully remove enough packaging to inspect the equipment for concealed damage.
Should I take pictures before unboxing restaurant equipment?
Yes. Photographs of the pallet, packaging, shipping labels, and visible damage can be useful documentation if a freight claim becomes necessary.
Should I keep the packaging after unboxing?
Do not immediately discard packaging if damage is present or still being evaluated. Some manufacturer shipping blocks or restraints may also need to be retained for future movement.
What is concealed freight damage?
Concealed damage is damage to the equipment that was not apparent from the outside of the shipping container and becomes visible after the packaging is removed.
What if the box is damaged when my equipment arrives?
Photograph the packaging, document visible damage according to the freight carrier's procedures, carefully inspect the equipment underneath, and contact the seller promptly if damage is found.
Should I remove protective plastic film before moving the equipment?
Not necessarily. Protective surface film can help prevent scratches during positioning. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for when it should be removed and make sure required films or packaging are removed before operation where specified.
Can I move a commercial refrigerator on its side?
Do not lay down or significantly tilt commercial refrigeration unless the manufacturer specifically permits it. Refrigeration systems require careful handling, and startup procedures may change if the unit has been transported improperly.
Can employees carry a commercial refrigerator into the kitchen?
Large restaurant equipment can weigh hundreds of pounds and may be top-heavy. Use appropriate material-handling equipment and professional movers when necessary rather than relying on employees to manually lift it.
What equipment can move a restaurant refrigerator?
Depending on the stage of the delivery, professionals may use pallet jacks, forklifts, appliance dollies, machinery skates, straps, or other rated moving equipment.
Should I install casters before moving the equipment?
It depends on the manufacturer and model. The shipping skid may be the preferred support during part of the move. Follow the installation procedure for installing casters or legs.
What if my restaurant equipment is too tall because of the pallet?
You may need to remove the shipping skid to gain vertical clearance, but determine how the equipment will be safely supported and moved after skid removal before doing so.
What if the bare equipment still does not fit through the door?
Do not force it. Look for another entrance, determine whether a building obstruction can be safely removed, check for manufacturer-approved equipment disassembly, contact professional riggers, or consider a different equipment model.
Should restaurant equipment be fully unpacked outside?
Only when necessary. Outdoor unboxing can expose equipment to weather and removes protection before the interior move. Remove only as much packaging as needed for inspection and clearance.
When should I fully remove the shipping packaging?
Usually once the unit is close to its final installation location, freight inspection is complete, and the manufacturer says the remaining shipping components can be removed.
Can I turn the equipment on immediately after unboxing?
Not automatically. Restaurant equipment may require leveling, utility connections, installation, removal of internal packaging, manufacturer startup procedures, and other checks before operation.
Should I read the installation manual before delivery?
Yes. The manual may contain important instructions about uncrating, pallet removal, door restraints, caster installation, equipment movement, clearances, and startup.
What dimensions should I check before ordering commercial restaurant equipment?
Check equipment width, depth, height, packaged dimensions, shipping weight, doorway clearances, hallways, turning areas, elevators, stairs, final installation space, and required operating clearances.
What is the best general rule for unboxing restaurant equipment?
Remove enough packaging to inspect the shipment and create necessary clearance, while keeping as much useful protection and structural shipping support in place as practical until the unit is near its final location.
