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The Problem of Appliance Deliveries and Why You’ll End Up Paying More Than Expected

February 21st, 2024 | 4 min. read

By Steve Sheinkopf

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The Problem of Appliance Deliveries and Why You’ll End Up Paying More Than Expected

You've likely already researched the cost of your appliances, a task that is relatively easy.

However, be cautious: estimating delivery costs can be challenging to outright impossible, particularly for larger items like refrigerators or when purchasing multiple items to outfit your whole kitchen.

In this article, you will learn how to save from all those extra fees and why a call from mom could change the way you think about delivery.

Yes, it's that bad.

With the shortage of skilled labor, it will become worse.

Read this article to protect yourself and download our delivery guide to compare every online, box, and local store.

Let’s dive in.

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The Problem of Appliance Deliveries and Why You’ll End Up Paying More Than Expected

1. Not Understanding the Costs of Appliance Delivery

Yale-Appliance-Delivery-Team

Who doesn't like free service?

Now, considering the complexity and weight of sophisticated appliance purchases, it's worth questioning whether you're willing to have delivery personnel in your home for the sake of paying the absolute minimum.

But you don't have to worry about “free delivery” promises because although free is advertised, it never happens.

Delivery-Comparison-Chart

In this case, removals are $50 apiece for each of the box stores, whereas they are included at Yale as part of the fee.

As a side note, we recycle everything at Yale, from old appliances to boxes and cardboard.

Here are some additional questions to think about before arranging your appliance delivery:

Does Delivery Include Installation?

yale-appliance-delivery-team-installing-a-wall-oven-1

Does your appliance delivery include basic installation? By basic, I mean refrigerators, electric stoves, washers, and electric dryers; again, most companies charge $17 per piece.

Dishwashers, wall ovens, cooktops, and gas stoves involve more complex installations and may be an additional cost.

Does Delivery Include Stairs?
appliance-delivery-stairs

I know I shouldn't be talking about stairs, but many, especially online dealers, charge by the floor.

To be completely transparent, we charge after the second floor because it requires extra time.

There are a ton of other hidden fees, but those are the main ones.

Remember, a salesperson's yes is not enough; you need all promises in writing on your receipt to avoid any misunderstanding at the time of delivery.

2. Underestimating the Time Lost Waiting for Deliveries

waiting-for-delivery

Now that you know the costs, how long will appliance delivery take? Not to mention, how long do you have to wait for your delivery?

If you don't work from home, time is an issue.

You could wait 2 hours, 4 hours, half a day, or a whole day, depending on the store's policies.

A few companies like ours will allow you to track the truck within 30 minutes.

We always call ahead, so your waiting time is minimal - as it should be.

You should only need to be present for the delivery itself, rather than waiting for an extended part of the day.

3. The Worst Mistake You Can Make During an Appliance Delivery

Never EVER sign for any appliance without a thorough inspection.

Many companies will not allow you to dispute damage after the fact.

It is quite possible you will have to live with that broken appliance or buy a new one, especially if you find the damage after signing for your new appliance.

So, the best way to avoid this is to spend adequate time inspecting your appliances before signing any paperwork or online document.

Now, let’s talk about property damage that can occur during and after delivery.

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Addressing Property Damage

Floor Damage

If the drivers damage your property, then you need to call while the drivers are there. Take pictures and sign the slip with a report of the damage.

Document everything as best you can because you want evidence if this dispute ends up in court.

Hire a contractor and get an estimate. Document all your correspondence. Request a return receipt and keep it handy.

Water Damage

Leak-Protection-Pads-With-Yale-Appliance (1)

All our deliveries of appliances like washers, refrigerators, and dishwashers have leak detection paper.

After 24 hours, you can remove it if you don't see moisture. Wax paper is similar and worth trying.

However, basements can flood if washers are installed improperly. You want to take pictures of the installation before you do any cleanup.

Then, get an estimate of repair. You want the cleanup to start quickly to avoid mold issues.

Insurance

All these companies will tell you to put it on your homeowner's insurance. However, you can expect your rates to increase or be subject to cancellation.

Make them pay for the cost of replacing or repairing any damaged items or property if the fault is theirs.

Why Choosing the Right Delivery Team Matters 

Now, let's dive into something you might not think about until it's on your doorstep (literally): choosing the right delivery team for your appliances. 

This isn't just about the excitement of getting a shiny new appliance. It's about making sure you're getting a safe and completely stress-free experience.

Over twenty-five years ago, we improved our delivery process by introducing CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) checks and mandatory drug screenings for safety-sensitive positions.  

At Yale. we personally hand-select and train our staff, plus every Yale driver, installer, and service technician undergoes drug testing and a criminal background check.

It's all about ensuring that when we're on your property, you feel as comfortable with us as you do with your own guests.

You should have absolute peace of mind with every delivery.

Because at the end of the day, it's not just about the appliance; it's about the entire experience.

How to Check Your Appliance Store Options

poor-reviews

The best way to research delivery and how you will be treated after you give someone your money is to check Google reviews.

You can type in "appliance delivery" and read reviews for every store you are considering.

Guaranteed Next Day Delivery with Yale Appliance

yale-appliance-delivery-truck-2023

After aligning people, software, and a few dollars, we will now guarantee delivery within 48 hours on any in-stock appliances.

It should be announced in a few weeks.

This blog is not a high five for Yale, but you should use this as a template for delivery policies and costs.

Yale Appliance Delivery includes:

  • Order any in-stock appliance and receive it within 24 hours
  • You will receive a call the night before with a 2-hour window
  • You can track the truck to your house within 30 minutes
  • You can receive a phone call from the drivers at any interval
  • Delivery can be scheduled on the same day or the next day
  • Delivery inside your house
  • Installation to your existing electrical and plumbing of refrigerators, electric stoves, washers, and electric dryers
  • Removal of your old appliances 1 for 1
  • Removal of all packaging

The total cost is $129 for a houseful of appliances.

No extras for removals, installation of the basics, or stairs to the third floor.

We still have the same-day delivery option for slightly more.

Key Takeaways

Use this as your template.

Also, download our Free Delivery Checklist to compare all your stores.

It will be illuminating, I promise.

Additional Resources

In a world full of choices, our Appliance Buying Guide is not just information; it's a decision-making tool tailored for you. Featuring the top 10 FAQs, detailed specs, and tutorials, this guide has helped over a million people. Download it for free and choose appliances like a pro!

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We are here to fill in the disconnect. We'll give you the best features, and the drawbacks as well, including reliability based on over 37,000 calls performed by our service team just last year. Our goal is to give you ALL the information so you know what's right for you.

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Steve Sheinkopf

Steve Sheinkopf is the third-generation CEO of Yale Appliance and a lifelong Bostonian. He has over 38 years of experience in the appliance industry, and he is a trusted source of information for consumers on how to buy and repair appliances.

Steve has also been featured in numerous publications, including the New York Times, Consumer Reports, The Boston Globe, Bloomberg Radio, the New York Post, The Wall Street Journal, and Entrepreneur, for his knowledge of how to buy appliances and appliance repair.

Steve is passionate about helping consumers find the best appliances for their needs, and he is always happy to answer questions and provide advice. He is a valuable resource for consumers who are looking for information on appliance buying, repair, and maintenance.

Despite being the worst goalie in history, Steve is a fan of the Bruins and college hockey, loves to read, and is a Peloton biker. The love of his life is his daughter, Sophie.

A Note About Pricing

Pricing on this blog is for reference only and may include time sensitive rebates. We make every attempt to provide accurate pricing at time of publishing. Please call the stores for most accurate price.