Shipping & Return Policy

Shipping Policy

National Metal Industries requires customers to be present at delivery to inspect packages for damage or shortages. We cannot guarantee specific delivery dates or times. Damage or missing items must be reported immediately on the bill of lading when signing for delivery.

Customers or their representatives must be available to help unload trucks. Large shipments arrive on pallets. Residential deliveries require hand unloading by the customer, though drivers may assist up to the truck's tailgate. Lift gate services are available for approximately $100 in some locations and must be requested at order time.

Carriers & Delivery Times

We ship via UPS, FedEx, U.S. Mail, or Airborne Express at our discretion. Expedited small package delivery takes a minimum of one additional day plus the carrier's standard timeframe, as we require one full business day for order processing and packaging.

• Most fence systems: 3–5 weeks depending on season
• Orders placed after 2:00 PM Eastern Time are processed the next business day
• Gates 6 feet and over are special order items requiring up to 6 weeks for fabrication

Damage & Shortage Claims

Damage discovered after delivery must be reported directly to the carrier immediately for inspection. Claims require original documentation including:

• Bill of lading
• Freight bill
• Invoice
• Repair estimates
• Inspection reports
• Packing lists

Most carriers deny claims after 9 months from delivery. Shortages and damage must be reported within 15 days; after this period, goods are presumed delivered in full and undamaged.

Returns

Returns require prior written permission and a return number. Unauthorized returns incur a 15% restocking fee plus freight charges. National Metal Industries does not reimburse return freight for non-error returns, and some items are non-returnable.

International Orders

International orders are subject to additional taxes, duties, and tariffs that customers are responsible for understanding and paying.

Warehouse Pick-Up

Customers may pick up orders at the warehouse if specified at order placement. Items are prepared "loose" without packaging unless otherwise arranged. Customers must arrive with appropriate vehicles, trailers, and strapping supplies.

National Metal Industries provides loading dock access and material handling equipment but does not assist with load strapping, tarping, or tie-down. The company assumes no liability for improperly secured loads.

Shortages or damage must be reported immediately upon pick-up; no claims are accepted after leaving the facility.

Orders must be picked up within 7 business days of completion notification. Storage fees of $12.50 per day apply beginning on the 8th business day.

Contact

For shipping or return questions, contact us at [email protected] or (516) 594-0364.