DIY Patio & Carport Delivery: What You Need to Know About Site Access

DIY Patio & Carport Delivery: What You Need to Know About Site Access

Ordering a DIY patio or carport kit online is easy. The part that catches people out is the delivery day logistics—especially if you’ve got a steep driveway, narrow access, or you’re trying to drop materials close to the build site. 

  • Suburb Friendly: Our drivers are pros at navigating residential streets.
  • Safe Packaging: Every kit is flat-packed and wrapped to prevent damage.
  • Pre-Arrival Calls: We’ll notify you before we arrive so you’re ready.

This guide walks you through how delivery works, what access you’ll need to think about, and how to make the drop-off smooth (and stress-free).

How delivery works (the simple version)

Online Patios notes that delivery is approximately 2–3 weeks after you place your order (timing can vary depending on order requirements such as powder coating and your delivery location). You’ll be notified once a delivery date is available.

Deliveries are made via a large crane truck, so home delivery site access planning matters. 

Also worth knowing:

  • If you’ve ordered an insulated kit, Online Patios states you’ll receive two deliveries.

  • Single skin kits typically arrive in one delivery.

Do you need to be home?

Online Patios says you’re not required to be home on delivery day, but it is your responsibility to notify them of any specific delivery requirements.

Real-world tip: even if it’s not mandatory, having someone there can be helpful if the driver needs confirmation on the safest drop zone—especially on tighter sites.

The #1 thing to plan: Home delivery site access for a large crane truck

Our kits are delivered via specialised trucks. If you're looking at our Carport Specials, we coordinate with you for a smooth drop-off. Because delivery is via a large crane truck, think about:

Street access

  • Is your street narrow, busy, or hard to stop in safely?

  • Are there clear curbside areas for the truck to position?

Driveway and entry access

  • Tight turns into the driveway

  • Steep gradients

  • Low-hanging trees

  • Overhead cables (very important)

  • Narrow gates or side access

Drop zone options

Pick a “Plan A” and “Plan B” drop zone:

  • Closest safe spot to your build area

  • A secondary spot (front yard, driveway edge, or curbside) if access is limited

If there are specific instructions required, Online Patios requests you notify them at least 48 hours before delivery.

How to prep your site before delivery day

A little prep makes a huge difference.

1) Clear the drop area

  • Move cars, trailers, bins, kids’ toys

  • Trim back overhanging branches (where safe)

  • Keep pets secured

2) Protect what you care about

Online Patios notes they’re not responsible for damage to driveways/gardens during delivery.

So if you’ve got:

  • Fresh concrete

  • Decorative pavers

  • Soft lawn edges

  • Garden beds along the driveway

…consider temporary protection (boards, mats) and choose a drop zone that minimises risk.

3) Make a simple delivery note

Send a short message that includes:

  • Best drop location (“left side of driveway near garage door”)

  • Any access issues (“narrow driveway, please unload curbside”)

  • Gate info (“side gate locked; call on arrival”)

  • Onsite contact name + phone

And remember: Online Patios asks for special delivery instructions 48 hours prior.

What arrives on the truck?

In general, your kit components will arrive bundled/packed for transport. Because insulated kits can come in two deliveries, it’s normal for the project to arrive in stages depending on what you ordered.

When it arrives, do a quick check:

  • Count bundles and confirm they match what the driver indicates

  • Inspect for obvious damage to packaging

  • Move materials to a safe storage spot ASAP (especially if rain is coming)

Tight access? Here are your options

If you already know your access is tricky, don’t stress—just plan for it upfront.

Common solutions:

  • Kerbside drop-off, then move items by hand (or with help) to the backyard

  • Driveway drop near the front, staged closer to the build area over time

  • Alternate drop zone (side street access, neighbour-approved spot, etc.)

The key is communicating early so your delivery plan matches your property.

Storage tips (so materials stay straight and clean)

If you’re not installing immediately:

  • Store packs on a flat surface (not uneven ground)

  • Keep them raised off wet soil/grass where possible

  • Cover from rain, but allow airflow (to avoid trapped moisture)

Delivery promos (worth checking before you order)

Online Patios promotes free shipping to Metro Sydney, Gold Coast, and Metro Brisbane on DIY kit orders over $4,000 (terms apply).

If you’re near these areas, it’s worth factoring that into your quote request.

Get in touch: we’ll help you plan Flat-pack Kit delivery + access before you order

If you’re ready to buy but unsure about access (tight driveway, overhead clearance, curbside drop, insulated kit staging), it’s better to sort it before checkout.

Get in touch with Online Patios and send:

  • Your suburb/postcode

  • A couple of photos of your driveway/street entry

  • Your preferred drop zone (or concerns)

Phone: 1300 156 381

Always confirm attachment suitability. To get a total price including shipping to your door, Request a Free Quote Here.

Don't let delivery questions hold you back.

Our team is here to help you plan the logistics of your DIY project. Contact us today for a full quote, including delivery to your doorstep.

Free How To Measure Document

Back to blog