MEP Central Shipping Policy

Effective Date: 1/1/2025
Last Updated: 10/15/2025

FREE SHIPPING - Our Commitment to You

At MEP Central, we believe shipping costs shouldn't stand between you and the supplies you need. That's why we've made FREE SHIPPING a cornerstone of our service:

🎉 FREE SHIPPING on Orders Over $300

Most contractor orders qualify automatically - no codes, no tricks, just free shipping when your cart hits $300.

📦 FREE SHIPPING on Small Items

Items under 30 lbs ship free, period. Filters, parts, tools, thermostats, and supplies - no shipping charges.

🚛 Transparent Freight Pricing

Large equipment (over 150 lbs) shows freight shipping costs at checkout - no surprises, no hidden fees.

🏪 Local Pickup Discount

Pick up locally and save 5-10% off delivered prices. Get your supplies same-day without waiting for delivery.

Overview

MEP Central is a multi-vendor marketplace connecting buyers with independent mechanical, electrical, and plumbing suppliers. Each supplier is solely responsible for shipping products to customers. MEP Central provides the platform technology to facilitate transactions but does not handle, ship, or deliver products.

This Shipping Policy outlines our free shipping program and general shipping practices that suppliers on our platform follow. Individual suppliers may have additional shipping policies that will be clearly communicated on their product listings and during checkout.

By placing an order on MEP Central, you acknowledge that shipping is handled by the individual supplier and agree to their shipping terms.

This Shipping Policy is incorporated into and should be read in conjunction with our Terms of Use and Terms and Conditions.

1. Supplier Responsibility for Shipping

1.1 Independent Supplier Operations

Each supplier on the MEP Central platform:

• Maintains their own inventory
• Processes and fulfills orders independently
• Selects shipping carriers and methods
• Handles packaging and preparation
• Provides tracking information
• Manages shipping issues and claims

1.2 MEP Central's Role

MEP Central:

• Provides the platform for order placement and tracking
• Facilitates communication between buyers and suppliers
• Establishes minimum shipping standards for suppliers
• Coordinates our FREE SHIPPING program with suppliers
• May assist in resolving shipping disputes
• Does NOT physically handle, ship, or deliver products

1.3 Direct Supplier-Buyer Relationship

The shipping contract is between you (the buyer) and the supplier. For shipping questions, issues, or concerns, you should contact the supplier directly through your MEP Central account.

2. FREE SHIPPING Program

2.1 How FREE SHIPPING Works

MEP Central offers industry-leading free shipping to make purchasing MEP supplies as convenient and cost-effective as possible. Our hybrid approach provides free shipping where it matters most while maintaining transparency for large equipment requiring freight delivery.

2.2 FREE SHIPPING on Orders Over $300

Automatic Qualification:

• Add $300 or more to your cart from any combination of eligible items
• Free shipping applies automatically at checkout
• No coupon codes or special requirements needed
• Applies to standard ground shipping within the continental United States

Why $300? Most professional contractor orders naturally exceed this threshold. Whether you're buying a condenser coil, a furnace part kit, or stocking up on supplies, you'll likely qualify for free shipping.

Cart Progress Indicator: As you shop, you'll see messages like:

• "You're $75 away from FREE SHIPPING!"
• "Congratulations! Your order qualifies for FREE SHIPPING 🎉"

Multiple Suppliers: The $300 threshold applies per supplier. If you order from multiple suppliers in one transaction:

• Supplier A: $200 of items = Shipping calculated
• Supplier B: $350 of items = FREE SHIPPING
• Total cart shows shipping costs accordingly

2.3 FREE SHIPPING on Small Items (Under 30 lbs)

Automatic Free Shipping: Many items ship free regardless of order size:

• Air filters and media filters
• Thermostats and controls
• Small motors and parts
• Hand tools and accessories
• Refrigerants (small containers)
• Electrical components
• Plumbing supplies and fittings
• Duct supplies and fasteners
• Safety equipment
• Chemicals and cleaners (non-hazmat)

How to Identify: Products with built-in free shipping display a "✓ FREE SHIPPING" badge on:

• Product listing pages
• Product detail pages
• Shopping cart
• Checkout summary

No Minimum Purchase: Small items ship free even if it's your only purchase. Order a single thermostat or a case of filters - shipping is always free.

2.4 Large Equipment & Freight Items

Freight Shipping Calculated: Items over 150 lbs or requiring freight delivery show shipping costs separately:

• Air conditioners and condensers
• Furnaces and air handlers
• Large ductwork and fabricated items
• Packaged HVAC units
• Bulk material orders
• Commercial equipment

Transparent Pricing:

• Freight shipping costs displayed at checkout before payment
• Based on actual carrier rates and destination
• No hidden fees or surprise charges
• Conservative estimates adjusted if actual cost is lower

Why Separate? Freight costs vary significantly by:

• Destination (residential vs. commercial, accessibility)
• Delivery requirements (liftgate, inside delivery, etc.)
• Equipment size and weight
• Distance from supplier warehouse

Building these costs into product prices would make pricing unclear and uncompetitive. We believe in transparent freight pricing for large items.

2.5 Local Pickup Discount

Save 5-10% with Local Pickup: Skip shipping entirely and pick up your order directly from the supplier:

• Select "Local Pickup" at checkout
• Receive 5-10% discount off delivered price (varies by supplier)
• Get your supplies same-day (once order is ready)
• No waiting for delivery
• Perfect for urgent jobs

How It Works:

1. Select "Local Pickup" during checkout
2. Complete your purchase
3. Supplier notifies you when order is ready (usually within 2-4 hours)
4. Pick up during supplier's business hours
5. Bring photo ID and order confirmation

Pickup Locations: Each supplier has their own pickup location. Address and hours provided in order confirmation email.

2.6 FREE SHIPPING Exclusions

Items NOT Eligible for Free Shipping Programs:

• Alaska and Hawaii deliveries (actual shipping costs apply)
• International shipments (see International Shipping section)
• Hazardous materials requiring special handling (additional fees may apply)
• Items marked "Freight Quote Required" (quotes provided before order processing)
• Special orders or custom fabrication (shipping terms specified at time of order)

Multi-Vendor Orders: Free shipping eligibility is calculated per supplier, not across your entire cart. This ensures each supplier's free shipping threshold is met independently.

3. Shipping Methods and Carriers

3.1 Available Shipping Methods

FREE Standard Ground Shipping:

• Our most popular option
• FREE on orders over $300 or small items under 30 lbs
• Delivery within 3-7 business days (varies by location)
• Tracking provided
• Available for most products

Expedited Shipping (Optional Upgrade):

• 2-3 day delivery
• Available for eligible products at additional cost
• Higher cost than standard ground
• Tracking provided
• May not be available for all items or destinations

Next Day / Overnight (Optional Upgrade):

• 1-2 business day delivery
• Limited availability
• Premium pricing
• Cut-off times apply for same-day processing (typically noon CT)
• Tracking provided
• Not available for large or hazardous items

Freight Shipping:

• Required for large, heavy, or oversized items (typically over 150 lbs)
• Delivery within 5-10 business days (varies by location)
• Calculated at checkout or quoted before processing
• Special delivery requirements may apply
• Commercial address or liftgate service may be needed
• Appointment scheduling required
• Tracking provided

Local Pickup (Save 5-10%):

• FREE - no shipping charges
• Receive discount off delivered price
• Same-day availability (once order is ready)
• Must provide valid ID at pickup
• Pickup location and hours specified by supplier
• Perfect for urgent needs or local contractors

3.2 Common Carriers

Suppliers may use various shipping carriers, including but not limited to:

• UPS (United Parcel Service)
• FedEx
• USPS (United States Postal Service)
• Regional and local carriers
• Freight carriers (for large items)
• Courier services

The specific carrier used will be determined by the supplier based on product size, weight, destination, and shipping method selected.

2.3 Carrier Selection

• Suppliers select the most appropriate carrier for each shipment
• Buyers cannot typically specify a preferred carrier
• Carrier selection is based on reliability, cost, and delivery timeframe
• Multiple packages in one order may ship via different carriers

4. Understanding Shipping Costs

4.1 Our FREE SHIPPING Advantage

Unlike traditional supply houses, MEP Central makes shipping simple and affordable:

FREE for Most Orders:

• ✅ Orders over $300 = FREE standard ground shipping
• ✅ Small items under 30 lbs = FREE shipping, any quantity
• ✅ Local pickup = FREE + save 5-10% discount

Transparent for Large Equipment:

• 🚛 Freight items = Shipping cost shown at checkout
• 📋 Custom/special orders = Shipping quoted before processing
• 🌎 Alaska/Hawaii = Actual shipping costs calculated

4.2 How FREE SHIPPING is Applied

At Checkout You'll See:

Example 1: Order Qualifies for Free Shipping

Subtotal:        $425.00
Shipping:        FREE! 🎉
Tax:             $35.06
────────────────────────
Total:           $460.06

Example 2: Mix of Free and Freight Items

Items with FREE shipping:  $285.00
Freight item:              $1,850.00
Subtotal:                  $2,135.00
Shipping (freight only):   $85.00
Tax:                       $183.15
────────────────────────────────────
Total:                     $2,403.15

Example 3: Under $300 Threshold

Subtotal:        $245.00
Shipping:        $18.00
────────────────────────
You're $55 away from FREE SHIPPING!
Add more items to qualify.
────────────────────────
Tax:             $21.69
Total:           $284.69

4.3 When Shipping Costs Apply

Standard Shipping Rates (when free shipping doesn't apply): Calculated based on:

• Package weight and dimensions
• Shipping destination (address and zip code)
• Shipping method selected (standard, expedited, overnight)
• Supplier's location

Typical Standard Shipping Costs:

• Local/Regional (0-150 miles): $8-25
• State-wide (150-400 miles): $15-45
• National (400+ miles): $25-75
• Varies by package size and weight

These costs are waived when:

• Your order totals $300 or more, OR
• All items in your cart are marked "FREE SHIPPING"

4.4 Freight Shipping Costs

Large Equipment Requiring Freight: Items typically over 150 lbs including:

• Air conditioners and condensers
• Furnaces and air handlers
• Commercial HVAC equipment
• Large ductwork and fabricated items
• Packaged units
• Bulk materials

Freight Cost Factors:

• Equipment weight and dimensions (charged per cubic foot or per pound)
• Distance from supplier to your location
• Residential vs. commercial delivery (commercial often costs less)
• Liftgate service (if needed for residential delivery without loading dock)
• Inside delivery vs. curbside
• Delivery accessibility (limited access locations cost more)
• Appointment scheduling requirements

Typical Freight Costs:

• Small freight (150-300 lbs): $75-150
• Medium freight (300-700 lbs): $150-300
• Large freight (700+ lbs): $300-600+
• Commercial delivery typically 20-30% less than residential

Additional Freight Services (optional):

• Liftgate service: +$50-100 (lowers freight from truck to ground)
• Inside delivery: +$75-150 (brings item inside building)
• White glove service: +$200-500 (delivery, uncrating, placement, debris removal)
• Limited access fee: +$50-150 (residential areas, farms, construction sites)

4.5 Multi-Supplier Order Shipping

Important: FREE SHIPPING calculated per supplier

If you order from multiple suppliers in one transaction:

• Each supplier's items calculated separately
• Each supplier's $300 threshold applies independently
• Cannot combine items from different suppliers to reach free shipping threshold

Example Multi-Supplier Order:

Supplier A (ABC Mechanical):
  - Condenser coil: $485 → FREE SHIPPING ✓
  - Line set: $125     → FREE SHIPPING ✓
  Supplier A Total: $610 (qualifies for free shipping)

Supplier B (XYZ Supply):
  - Filter (5 lbs): $35 → FREE SHIPPING ✓ (under 30 lbs)
  - Thermostat (2 lbs): $89 → FREE SHIPPING ✓ (under 30 lbs)
  Supplier B Total: $124 (all items ship free individually)

Your Order Total: $734 with $0 shipping charges

4.6 Shipping Cost Display

Before Checkout:

• Product pages show "FREE SHIPPING" badge where applicable
• Cart shows current shipping charges and free shipping eligibility
• Progress indicator shows amount needed to reach free shipping threshold

At Checkout:

• All shipping costs calculated and displayed before payment
• Final shipping charges shown in order summary
• No hidden fees or surprise charges after order placement

4.7 Shipping to Multiple Addresses

Split Shipments:

• You can ship items to different addresses in one order
• Each destination may be charged separately
• FREE SHIPPING applies per supplier per destination
• Specify all shipping addresses during checkout

5. Delivery Timeframes

5.1 Processing Time

Order Processing:

• Most orders processed within 1-2 business days
• Processing time is the time between order placement and shipment
• Processing time is separate from transit time
• Custom orders or special items may require longer processing times
• Processing times specified on product pages and by suppliers
• FREE SHIPPING orders receive same processing priority as paid shipping

Factors Affecting Processing Time:

• Product availability and stock levels
• Order verification and fraud prevention checks
• Payment authorization and clearance
• High volume periods (holidays, sales events)
• Custom fabrication or special orders

18.2 Transit Time

Estimated Delivery:

• Transit time is the time from shipment to delivery
• Estimated delivery dates are provided at checkout
• Transit times vary by shipping method and destination
• Business days only (excludes weekends and holidays)

FREE Standard Ground Transit Times (after processing):

• Local/Regional (within 150 miles): 1-3 business days
• State-wide (150-400 miles): 2-5 business days
• National (400+ miles): 3-7 business days
• Remote/Rural areas: May require additional 1-2 days

Expedited Transit Times (upgrade available for additional cost):

• 2-Day Shipping: 2 business days after shipment
• Next Day Shipping: 1 business day after shipment (order before cut-off time)

Freight Transit Times:

• Typical: 5-10 business days after shipment
• Appointment scheduled within this window
• May vary based on destination and carrier availability

18.3 Estimated Delivery Dates

• Estimated delivery dates are provided as a courtesy and are not guaranteed
• Actual delivery may vary due to factors beyond supplier control
• Estimated dates include both processing and transit time

18.4 Delivery Time Disclaimers

Delivery dates are estimates only and are not guaranteed. Delays may occur due to:

• Weather conditions and natural disasters
• Carrier delays or service disruptions
• Customs clearance (for international shipments)
• Incorrect or incomplete shipping addresses
• Delivery access issues
• Holidays and peak shipping periods
• Force majeure events

Neither MEP Central nor suppliers are liable for shipping delays beyond their reasonable control.

8. Shipping Addresses

18.1 Address Accuracy

You are responsible for providing accurate and complete shipping addresses. Please ensure:

• Street address is correct and complete
• Apartment, suite, or unit numbers are included
• City, state, and ZIP code are accurate
• Phone number is valid for delivery contact
• Special delivery instructions are noted

18.2 Address Corrections

• If an address needs correction after shipment, contact the supplier immediately
• Address correction fees charged by carriers will be passed to the customer
• MEP Central and suppliers are not responsible for delays or additional costs due to incorrect addresses

18.3 Undeliverable Addresses

If a package cannot be delivered due to an incorrect or incomplete address:

• The carrier may return the package to the supplier
• Return shipping fees and reshipping fees will apply
• Contact the supplier to arrange reshipment

18.4 Residential vs. Commercial Addresses

Residential Addresses:

• Most standard shipments delivered to home addresses
• Signature may be required for high-value items
• Delivery typically during business hours (9 AM - 6 PM)
• Carrier may leave packages if safe to do so

Commercial Addresses:

• Delivery to businesses during business hours
• May require signature or receiving department
• Often lower shipping costs than residential
• May have specific receiving hours or requirements

Important: Designate your address type correctly during checkout. Misclassification may result in additional fees or delivery issues.

18.5 PO Boxes and Special Addresses

PO Boxes:

• Small packages may be shipped to PO boxes via USPS
• Large items and freight shipments CANNOT be delivered to PO boxes
• Suppliers may restrict PO box delivery for certain products

APO/FPO/DPO Addresses (Military):

• Available via USPS only
• Extended delivery times apply
• Some products may be restricted
• Contact supplier for availability

Hotels and Temporary Addresses:

• Notify the property in advance of delivery
• Provide specific instructions for delivery
• Include guest name and check-in dates
• Risk of loss if not accepted by property

8. Order Tracking

18.1 Tracking Information

Once your order ships:

• Supplier will provide tracking information
• Tracking numbers sent via email
• Track orders through your MEP Central account
• Updates appear in "My Orders" section

18.2 Tracking Updates

• Tracking information may take 24 hours to appear in carrier systems
• Updates occur as package moves through carrier network
• Delivery confirmation provided upon successful delivery

18.3 Multiple Tracking Numbers

• Orders with multiple items may have multiple tracking numbers
• Each package tracked separately
• All tracking information provided in your account

18.4 Tracking Issues

If tracking shows no movement or updates:

• Wait 48 hours after expected update
• Contact the supplier through your MEP Central account
• Supplier will investigate with carrier
• Claim process may be initiated if package is lost

8. Delivery and Receipt of Shipments

18.1 Delivery Attempts

Standard Deliveries:

• Carriers typically attempt delivery 1-3 times
• If no one available, carrier leaves notice
• Package may be held at local facility for pickup
• Redelivery may be scheduled online or by phone

18.2 Signature Requirements

Signature May Be Required For:

• High-value items (typically over $500)
• Hazardous materials (certain chemicals, refrigerants)
• Age-restricted items
• Items specifically requiring signature by supplier

If Signature Required:

• Someone 18+ must be present to sign
• Valid ID may be required
• Alternate delivery options available (hold at facility, delivery to neighbor with authorization)

18.3 Freight Deliveries

Large Item / Freight Shipments:

• Advance notice and appointment scheduling required
• Carrier will contact you to schedule delivery
• Delivery to curb, threshold, or inside determined by service level
• Customer responsible for moving items inside unless white glove service purchased

Liftgate Service:

• Required for residential deliveries without loading dock
• Lowers freight from truck to ground level
• Additional fee typically applies
• Specify need for liftgate at checkout

Limited Access Locations:

• Additional fees may apply for hard-to-reach locations
• Includes residential areas, farms, construction sites
• Notify supplier if special access arrangements needed

18.4 Inspection Upon Delivery

IMPORTANT: Inspect all packages upon delivery

For Standard Shipments:

• Check for external damage to packaging
• Note any damage on delivery receipt or driver paperwork
• Photograph damage for documentation
• Report damage to supplier within 48 hours

For Freight Shipments:

• Inspect thoroughly before signing delivery receipt
• Note any damage or missing items on Bill of Lading
• Refuse delivery if damage is severe
• Take photos of damage and packaging
• Report to supplier immediately

Concealed Damage:

• Damage not visible on exterior packaging
• Report to supplier within 48 hours of delivery
• Retain all packaging materials for inspection
• Photos required for damage claim

18.5 Refusal of Delivery

You may refuse delivery if:

• Package is severely damaged
• Wrong item delivered
• Did not order the item

Note: Return shipping charges and restocking fees may apply if you refuse a correct delivery. Review supplier return policy.

9. Damaged, Lost, or Missing Shipments

18.1 Damaged Shipments

If Your Package Arrives Damaged:

1. Document the damage with photos (packaging and product)
2. Note damage on delivery receipt if possible
3. Retain all packaging materials
4. Contact the supplier immediately through your MEP Central account
5. Supplier will initiate damage claim with carrier
6. Supplier will arrange replacement or refund

Claims Process:

• Supplier files claim with carrier
• Photo documentation required
• Packaging may need to be inspected
• Processing time: 7-14 business days typically
• Supplier handles claim process

18.2 Lost Shipments

If Tracking Shows Delivered But You Did Not Receive:

1. Check with household members or neighbors
2. Look in all delivery locations (porch, garage, side door)
3. Wait 24 hours (sometimes marked delivered before actual delivery)
4. Contact carrier to verify delivery location
5. Contact supplier if package not located

If Tracking Shows No Movement or Lost in Transit:

1. Wait 7 days past expected delivery date
2. Contact supplier through your MEP Central account
3. Supplier will investigate with carrier
4. Lost package claim filed if not located
5. Replacement or refund processed after claim resolution

Carrier Investigation:

• Carriers investigate lost package claims
• GPS tracking and delivery records reviewed
• 7-14 days for investigation completion
• Supplier processes replacement/refund after resolution

18.3 Missing Items from Order

If Items Missing from Package:

1. Check packing slip against order confirmation
2. Check for multiple tracking numbers (items may ship separately)
3. Contact supplier within 48 hours
4. Provide order number and missing item details
5. Supplier will verify and ship missing items or issue refund

18.4 Wrong Item Delivered

If You Receive Wrong Item:

1. Do not open or use the product
2. Retain all packaging and materials
3. Contact supplier immediately
4. Provide photos of item received
5. Supplier will arrange return pickup and ship correct item

No Cost to Customer:

• Return shipping is free for supplier errors
• Correct item shipped at no additional charge
• No restocking fees apply

10. Special Shipping Considerations

18.1 Hazardous Materials

Some MEP products are classified as hazardous materials:

• Refrigerants
• Certain chemicals and coatings
• Batteries and lithium-ion products
• Aerosols and compressed gases

Hazardous Material Restrictions:

• May only ship via ground transportation
• Cannot ship via air (no expedited shipping)
• Additional shipping charges may apply
• Some carriers restrict hazmat shipping to commercial addresses
• Signature required for delivery

18.2 Oversized and Heavy Items

Items Requiring Freight Shipping:

• HVAC equipment (condensers, air handlers, furnaces)
• Large ductwork and fabricated items
• Bulk materials and supplies
• Items over 150 lbs or exceeding standard package dimensions

Freight Shipping Details:

• Delivery time: 5-10 business days typically
• Appointment scheduling required
• Liftgate service available (additional fee)
• Inside delivery available (additional fee)
• Commercial address delivery preferred

18.3 High-Value Items

Items valued over $500 may require:

• Signature upon delivery
• Additional insurance (included in shipping cost)
• Age verification (18+)
• Special handling by carrier

18.4 Temperature-Sensitive Items

Some products may have temperature restrictions:

• Certain adhesives, sealants, and coatings
• Not shipped during extreme heat or cold
• Suppliers may delay shipment for weather conditions
• Customer notified of weather-related delays

18.5 Regional Shipping Restrictions

Some products cannot be shipped to certain states or regions due to:

• State regulations and restrictions
• Local code requirements
• Hazardous material transport limitations
• Product registration requirements

Restrictions are noted on product pages. Contact supplier for specific questions.

11. International Shipping

18.1 International Availability

Currently, most MEP Central suppliers ship only within the United States.

Some suppliers may offer international shipping to:

• Canada
• Select international locations

Check product pages and supplier information for international shipping availability.

18.2 International Shipping Costs

International shipping costs are higher due to:

• Increased carrier rates
• Customs documentation requirements
• Import duties and taxes
• Extended transit times

18.3 Customs, Duties, and Taxes

Customer Responsibility:

• Import duties, taxes, and fees are the customer's responsibility
• Charges vary by country and product classification
• Customs may inspect packages, causing delays
• Buyer must provide accurate customs information

Customs Documentation:

• Commercial invoice included with shipment
• Accurate product description and value required
• Customer responsible for customs clearance

18.4 International Delivery Times

• Transit times significantly longer than domestic
• Typical range: 7-21 business days
• Customs clearance can add additional time
• Delays are common and expected

18.5 International Returns

• Return shipping from international addresses is customer's expense
• Higher return shipping costs apply
• Review supplier's international return policy before ordering

12. Holidays and Peak Shipping Periods

18.1 Holiday Shipping Deadlines

During holiday periods, order early to ensure timely delivery:

• Increased order volumes during holidays
• Carrier delays more common
• Extended processing times may occur
• Specific deadlines communicated by suppliers

18.2 Carrier Holiday Schedule

Carriers Do Not Deliver On:

• New Year's Day
• Memorial Day
• Independence Day (July 4th)
• Labor Day
• Thanksgiving Day
• Christmas Day

Limited Service:

• Day after Thanksgiving
• Christmas Eve
• New Year's Eve

18.3 Peak Season Considerations

High-Volume Periods:

• Summer (HVAC peak season)
• November - December (holidays)
• Construction season (spring/summer)

During Peak Periods:

• Order early for time-sensitive needs
• Allow extra processing and delivery time
• Expedited shipping may have limited availability
• Contact supplier for specific lead times

13. Backorders and Stock Availability

18.1 Stock Availability

• Product availability is shown on product pages
• Stock levels updated regularly
• Popular items may sell out quickly
• Suppliers may fulfill from multiple warehouse locations

18.2 Backorder Policy

If Item Becomes Backordered After Order:

• Supplier will notify you of backorder status
• Estimated restock date provided when available
• Options offered:
  • Wait for item to be restocked
  • Cancel backordered item (refund issued)
  • Substitute with similar product (if available)

18.3 Partial Shipments

• Available items ship immediately
• Backordered items ship when available
• No additional shipping charges for backorder shipments
• Multiple tracking numbers provided

14. Shipping Insurance and Liability

18.1 Supplier Insurance

• Suppliers maintain shipping insurance on all shipments
• Insurance covers loss or damage during transit
• Claims filed by supplier with carrier
• Customer does not file insurance claims directly

18.2 Declared Value

• High-value items have declared value for insurance purposes
• Insurance coverage included in shipping cost
• Additional insurance available for extremely high-value items

18.3 Liability Limitations

Carrier Liability:

• Carriers have limited liability for lost or damaged shipments
• Maximum liability set by carrier terms and conditions
• Full insurance coverage maintained by suppliers

Customer Responsibility:

• Report damage or loss promptly
• Cooperate with claims process
• Retain packaging for inspection if required

15. Shipping Issues and Disputes

15.1 How to Report Shipping Issues

Contact Supplier First:

1. Log into your MEP Central account
2. Navigate to "My Orders"
3. Select the order with the issue
4. Click "Contact Seller" or "Report Issue"
5. Describe the problem and provide details

Supplier Response Time:

• Suppliers respond within 2 business days
• Urgent issues addressed more quickly
• Solution proposed and implemented promptly

15.2 MEP Central Assistance

If you cannot resolve a shipping issue with the supplier:

1. Contact MEP Central Support
2. Provide order number and issue details
3. Include supplier communication history
4. MEP Central will facilitate resolution

MEP Central Support:

• Email: support@mepcentral.com
• Phone: [Phone Number]
• Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM CT

15.3 Dispute Resolution

For Unresolved Shipping Disputes:

• MEP Central may mediate between buyer and supplier
• Documentation and evidence reviewed
• Fair resolution sought for all parties
• MEP Central decision is final

15.4 Carrier Contact Information

To Contact Carriers Directly:

UPS:

• Phone: 1-800-742-5877
• Website: www.ups.com

FedEx:

• Phone: 1-800-463-3339
• Website: www.fedex.com

USPS:

• Phone: 1-800-275-8777
• Website: www.usps.com

Freight Carriers:

• Contact information provided in shipping notification

16. Returns and Exchanges Related to Shipping

16.1 Return Shipping

Returns are subject to the MEP Central Return Policy. Key points related to shipping:

• Customer pays return shipping for standard returns
• Supplier pays return shipping for defects or errors
• Return shipping address provided by supplier
• Use trackable shipping method for returns
• Retain return tracking information

16.2 Exchanges

• Exchange items subject to availability
• Return original item first
• Refund or credit issued
• New item purchased separately
• Each shipment charged separately

16.3 Damaged Item Returns

• Return shipping free for damaged items
• Supplier arranges return pickup or provides prepaid label
• Retain all packaging until return resolved

For complete return information, see our Return Policy.

17. Changes to Shipping Policy

17.1 Policy Updates

MEP Central reserves the right to update this Shipping Policy at any time. Changes will be effective immediately upon posting with an updated "Last Updated" date at the top of this policy.

17.2 Notification of Changes

Material changes will be communicated through:

• Email notification to registered users
• Notice posted on the Platform
• Update to "Last Updated" date

17.3 Continued Use

Continued use of the Platform after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated Shipping Policy.

19. FREE SHIPPING Examples

To help you understand how our FREE SHIPPING program works, here are common ordering scenarios:

Example 1: Small Parts Order (B2C Customer)

Shopping Cart:

• (2) Air Filters 20x25x5 @ $24.99 each = $49.98
• (1) Programmable Thermostat @ $89.99
• (1) Capacitor 45/5 @ $18.99

Total Weight: 8 lbs
Subtotal: $158.96
Shipping: FREE! ✓ (All items under 30 lbs)
Tax: $13.12
Order Total: $172.08

Example 2: Contractor Supply Stock-Up (B2B Customer)

Shopping Cart:

• (10) Refrigerant R-410A (25 lb cylinders) @ $145 each = $1,450
• (5) Filter driers @ $12.50 each = $62.50
• (2) TXV kits @ $48 each = $96
• (1) Manifold gauge set @ $125

Total Weight: 285 lbs (multiple packages)
Subtotal: $1,733.50
Shipping: FREE! ✓ (Over $300 threshold)
Tax: $142.96
Order Total: $1,876.46

Example 3: HVAC System Installation (Contractor)

Shopping Cart from ABC Mechanical:

• (1) 3-Ton Condenser = $1,850
• (1) 3-Ton Evaporator Coil = $485
• (1) 30' Line Set = $125
• (1) Condensate Pump = $78
• (2) Air Filters @ $24.99 each = $49.98

Subtotal: $2,587.98
Shipping: FREE! ✓ (Over $300 + condenser freight included)
Note: Condenser requires freight delivery - appointment will be scheduled
Tax: $213.50
Order Total: $2,801.48

Example 4: Multi-Vendor Order

Shopping Cart:

From ABC Mechanical (Houston):

• (1) 2-Ton Air Handler = $625
• Qualifies: FREE SHIPPING ✓ (Over $300)

From XYZ Supply (Dallas):

• (1) Duct Insulation Roll = $45
• (1) Sealant Tape = $12
• Subtotal: $57
• Shipping: $15 (under $300 threshold, items don't individually qualify)

Order Totals:

• Products: $682
• Shipping: $15 (only for XYZ Supply items)
• Tax: $57.51
• Grand Total: $754.51

Pro Tip: Add $243 more from XYZ Supply to get FREE SHIPPING on their items too!

Example 5: Local Pickup Savings

Option A - Delivered:

• (1) Package Unit (150 lbs) = $2,200
• Freight Shipping: $150
• Total: $2,350 + tax

Option B - Local Pickup (Save 10%):

• (1) Package Unit = $1,980 ($2,200 - 10% discount)
• Pickup: FREE
• Total: $1,980 + tax
• Savings: $370!

20. Contact Information

For Shipping Questions:

Contact the Supplier Directly:

• Access through "My Orders" in your account
• Use "Contact Seller" feature
• Suppliers respond within 2 business days

For General Shipping Policy Questions:

MEP Central Support
[Street Address]
Houston, TX [Zip Code]

Email: support@mepcentral.com
Phone: [Phone Number]
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Central Time

Summary of Key Points

🎉 FREE SHIPPING Highlights

✓ FREE SHIPPING on orders over $300 - Most contractor orders qualify automatically
✓ FREE SHIPPING on small items - Items under 30 lbs ship free, no minimum
✓ Local pickup saves 5-10% - Skip shipping and save even more
✓ Transparent freight pricing - Large equipment costs shown at checkout

📦 How Shipping Works

✓ Suppliers handle all shipping - Each supplier ships their own products independently
✓ Multiple shipping methods - Standard ground (FREE!), expedited, freight, and pickup
✓ Track orders through your account - Tracking provided when order ships
✓ Inspect packages upon delivery - Report damage within 48 hours

⚡ Important Details

✓ Processing time separate from transit - Allow 1-2 days processing plus transit time
✓ Contact supplier for shipping issues - Suppliers handle shipping problems directly
✓ Freight delivery for large items - Appointment scheduling required for 150+ lb items
✓ Holiday and peak season - Order early during busy periods (summer HVAC season)
✓ Multi-vendor orders - FREE SHIPPING calculated per supplier

🌍 Geographic Coverage

✓ Continental US - FREE SHIPPING applies to lower 48 states
✓ Alaska/Hawaii - Actual shipping costs calculated
✓ International - Most suppliers ship U.S. only

By placing an order on MEP Central, you acknowledge that you have read and agree to this Shipping Policy.

Last Updated: 10/15/2025

MEP Central - Your Complete MEP Supply Solution