Shipping Policy
1. Shipping Scope & Exclusions
- Contiguous US Coverage: SmallOutboardMotors.shop ships to residential and commercial addresses in the contiguous United States (Lower 48).
- Exclusions: We do not ship to P.O. Boxes, APO/FPO military addresses, or international destinations. Orders to Alaska, Hawaii, or offshore territories require custom freight quotes prior to purchase.
2. DOT Hazardous Material Compliance & Engine Prep
In accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and Hazardous Materials regulations:
- All outboard engines are completely drained of fuel and oil prior to shipment.
- Buyer Requirement: You must add engine oil (4-stroke) and fuel (or fuel/oil mix for 2-stroke models) before starting your engine. Running an engine dry will cause immediate damage and void all warranties.
3. LTL Freight & Delivery Appointments
- Signature Required: All motor deliveries require an adult signature upon arrival.
- Delivery Appointments: For freight orders, you must provide a valid phone number at checkout. If you miss a scheduled freight delivery appointment, any carrier re-delivery fees (typically $50–$100) are the responsibility of the customer.
4. Shipping Damage & Claims Procedure
Risk of loss passes to the buyer upon delivery. To ensure full protection against shipping damage:
- Inspect Upon Delivery: Thoroughly check the outer box or crate before signing the delivery receipt.
- Note Visible Damage: If the box or crate is damaged, torn, or crushed, write “Damaged – Subject to Inspection” on the driver’s delivery receipt/Bill of Lading.
- Report Within 48 Hours: Send clear photos of the damaged box, engine, and shipping label to support@smalloutboardmotors.shop within 48 hours. Properly reported freight damage will be replaced or refunded at no charge.
5. Address Modifications
Any address changes requested after an item has departed our warehouse are subject to carrier approval and re-routing fees assessed by the freight company.