Shipping Information
Everything you need to know about shipping automotive parts on PrjctX.us - for both buyers and sellers
For Buyers
Typical Shipping Times
* Times start after seller ships. Most sellers ship within 1-3 business days.
Order Tracking
Automatic Tracking
You'll receive tracking info via email once the seller ships your order
Track in Dashboard
View all tracking numbers in your "My Orders" dashboard
Real-Time Updates
Click tracking links to see live carrier updates
Delivery Confirmation
You'll be notified when your package is delivered
Understanding Shipping Costs
Shipping costs are set by individual sellers and vary based on item size, weight, and destination. You'll see the exact shipping cost before checkout.
Money-Saving Tips:
- •Look for sellers offering free shipping (cost is built into price)
- •Choose local pickup for heavy items to avoid shipping fees
- •Buy multiple items from one seller to combine shipping
- •Standard ground is cheaper than expedited for non-urgent orders
Local Pickup Option
Many sellers offer local pickup, especially for large or heavy parts. This saves both you and the seller on shipping costs.
Check Listings
Look for "Local Pickup Available" or $0 shipping cost
Arrange Meeting
Contact seller to schedule safe, public location
Inspect & Pay
Inspect item in person before completing transaction
For Sellers
Supported Shipping Carriers
You can use any carrier you prefer. We integrate with all major shipping providers for tracking.
USPS
Best for small/medium parts, nationwide coverage
UPS
Reliable tracking, good for medium/large items
FedEx
Fast delivery, expedited options available
Freight
For heavy items (engines, transmissions, etc.)
How to Calculate Shipping Costs
Step-by-Step Process:
- 1
Weigh the part
Use a scale - don't estimate! Include packaging weight.
- 2
Measure dimensions
Length × Width × Height of packaged item in inches.
- 3
Get carrier quotes
Use carrier websites or ShipStation for rate comparisons.
- 4
Add to listing
Enter the shipping cost when creating your listing.
Important Tips:
- ⚠Always round UP to cover packaging materials and handling
- ⚠Underestimating shipping costs means you lose money
- ⚠For heavy items (50+ lbs), get freight quotes from multiple companies
- ⚠Consider dimensional weight for large but light items (bumpers, hoods)
- ⚠Update shipping costs if package size/weight changes before listing
Packaging Best Practices
Proper packaging prevents damage, reduces returns, and protects your seller rating. Follow these guidelines:
Choose Right Box
- • Use sturdy cardboard boxes (not bags)
- • Box should be 2-3" larger than item
- • Double-wall boxes for heavy parts
- • Never reuse damaged boxes
Protect the Part
- • Wrap in bubble wrap or foam
- • Wrap greasy parts in plastic first
- • Fill voids with packing peanuts
- • Parts shouldn't move when shaken
Label & Seal
- • Tape all seams with quality tape
- • Clear shipping label placement
- • Mark "FRAGILE" if needed
- • Include packing slip inside
Packaging Supplies You'll Need:
Shipping Insurance
Shipping insurance protects you if packages are lost or damaged in transit. We strongly recommend insurance for valuable items.
When to Buy Insurance:
- Items worth $100 or more
- Fragile or breakable parts
- Long-distance shipments
- All freight shipments
Insurance Costs (Approximate):
* Available through USPS, UPS, FedEx, or third-party insurers like ShipInsure
Shipping Heavy Items (Engines, Transmissions, etc.)
Parts over 150 lbs typically require freight shipping. This is more complex but manageable with proper planning.
Freight Shipping Options:
LTL Freight (Less Than Truckload)
For individual large items. Carriers: FedEx Freight, UPS Freight, Old Dominion, XPO Logistics
Pallet Shipping
Secure item to wooden pallet. Protects part and simplifies handling. Required for most freight.
Crating
Build wooden crate for extremely valuable or delicate items. Adds cost but maximum protection.
Freight Shipping Process:
- 1
Get Quotes
Contact 3-4 freight companies for quotes
- 2
Prepare Item
Drain fluids, secure to pallet, protect connectors
- 3
Schedule Pickup
Book pickup date with chosen carrier
- 4
Provide Tracking
Send freight tracking info to buyer
Pro Tip for Heavy Items:
Consider offering "Local Pickup Only" for extremely heavy items like complete engines or transmissions. This eliminates shipping complexity and cost. Many buyers prefer local pickup for these items anyway. Set shipping cost to $0 and note "Local Pickup Only" in title and description.
International Shipping
International shipping is allowed but varies by seller. If you sell internationally, here's what you need to know:
Customs & Duties
- • Buyer pays all customs fees and import duties
- • Complete customs forms accurately
- • Declare true value (don't undervalue)
- • Mark as "Automotive Parts" on forms
- • Include detailed item description
Shipping Times
- • Canada: 1-2 weeks
- • Mexico: 1-3 weeks
- • Europe: 2-4 weeks
- • Asia/Pacific: 3-5 weeks
- • Add time for customs clearance
Best Practices
- • Use carriers with international tracking
- • Always purchase insurance
- • Communicate delivery expectations clearly
- • Check prohibited items by country
- • Keep customs documentation