If you’re seriously considering getting an RTA outdoor kitchen… at some point, you’ll need to know how your future island will get shipped to you. Which brings up the question:
“How do RTA outdoor kitchens get shipped to me?”
It’s an important question! RTA outdoor kitchens come in large wooden crates designed to arrive at your home safely… and you need to know what to expect when it comes to shipping. At RTA Outdoor Living, we ship our outdoor kitchens across the country day in and day out… so we are happy to provide you with more insight about the process.
In this article, you’ll learn the 5 steps involved with how an RTA outdoor kitchen gets shipped to you. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect with shipping should you decide to work with RTA.
What’s The Shipping Process for RTA Outdoor Kitchens?
Step 1. Your Outdoor Kitchen is Produced
The shipping process gets kicked off when your outdoor kitchen finishes production. Your island panels, countertops, and appliances will get crated up and ready to hit the road. At this stage, your Project Success Manager (PSM) will be notified that your outdoor kitchen is ready to ship.
Step 2. Delivery Planning with Your Project Manager
Ready for Your Dream Outdoor Kitchen?
Step 3. Scheduling Delivery with Freight Company
At this point, your RTA outdoor kitchen shipment is picked up by the freight company. When tracking information is received by our team, we’ll send it over to you directly. Once your outdoor kitchen reaches the local dispatch center, the carrier company will reach out to you directly to arrange a convenient delivery date.
Step 4. Your Outdoor Kitchen is Delivered via LTL Curbside
Your outdoor kitchen will now arrive at your home during the scheduled delivery window. It’s important to note that RTA uses LTL Curbside Delivery. This means that the driver will be equipped with a liftgate and pallet jack, and will deliver your outdoor kitchen at the end of your driveway or nearest accessible point. They are not required to assist you with bringing the crates to where you’ll be installing your kitchen.
That said… if your driveway is relatively flat, paved, and accessible, more often than not, the driver will be able to place your shipment in the driveway. (That’s not a guarantee, however!) Alternatively, if you would like inside delivery or guaranteed driveway delivery, you can work out these details with your PSM. Just note that additional fees may apply here.
Step 5. You Inspect the Shipment
Once your RTA outdoor kitchen has been delivered, you must inspect the shipment while the delivery driver is still present. You’re looking for any signs of major damage on the crates, like large holes, dents, etc. If all looks good, you can sign the delivery receipt and get ready to install. But if there is major damage… immediately contact your Shipping Manager or Project Manager for next steps.
Ready for Your Custom Outdoor Kitchen?
Now that you’re 100% clear on how an RTA outdoor kitchen gets shipped to you… is it time to get the ball rolling on your own project?
If you’re feeling the call to get your dream outdoor kitchen project underway, this is the perfect time to book a call with one of our Design Experts. They’ll answer any questions you may have about an RTA outdoor kitchen or outdoor kitchen projects in general!
Book a free call below… and we look forward to hearing from you!

