Shipping policy

How your canopy ships

A CHITIN canopy is a large, precision-built structure. Every order is secured inside a heavy-duty industrial wooden crate and moved by specialized freight to reach you in pristine condition.

  • Crated & braced — your canopy is anchored inside a custom wooden crate built for the journey.
  • Specialized LTL freight — shipped on a pallet via dedicated freight carriers.
  • Signature required — someone must be present to receive and inspect the delivery.

Two ways to receive your build

1. Free local pickup

Free pickup at our Orange County warehouse. We'll email you the exact pickup address and instructions when your build is ready. Plan for a pickup truck or trailer — the crate is large and heavy.

2. LTL freight to your address

If you'd rather have it delivered, our shipping partner provides a live freight quote at checkout based on your address and the freight carrier's current rates. You see the exact cost before paying the balance.

Freight deliveries are typically curbside or driveway-side, not inside a garage. Please plan a way to move the crate the final few feet, and tell us in your order notes if you need lift-gate service or have restricted truck access.

Transit time

Once your build leaves our Orange County warehouse:

  • LTL freight transit is typically 5–10 business days depending on your distance from California.
  • Local pickup is available within 24 business hours of your build arriving.

Made-to-order timeline

Most CHITIN builds are made to order. Total timeline from reservation:

  • Production at our overseas manufacturing partner: ~10–12 weeks.
  • Crating and transit to our Orange County warehouse: ~2–3 weeks.
  • Then pickup or LTL freight to you.

Mandatory delivery inspection

You must inspect the exterior of the crate before signing the freight delivery receipt. If you see damage, take clear photos before the driver leaves, write "Damaged Upon Arrival" on the driver's paperwork, and email orders@chitincap.com immediately. Documenting damage at delivery is essential for filing a freight claim.

Questions

Email orders@chitincap.com with your truck details, delivery address, and any special requirements. We respond within 24 business hours, Monday through Friday.