Why White Glove Delivery Feels More Like A Latex Glove

Because you are about to get screwed! The e-commerce sites that offer you Free Delivery are the biggest racket on the Internet. "Free" shipping of your new dining room table and chairs actually means, "our truck will be waiting for you on the street so you can unload it yourself. BUT as a courtesy to you, we will extend a white glove service for an additional charge." Below is an actual break-down of "free" delivery charges from a very large e-commerce furniture dealer. Their definition of "FREE" will surprise you.

Standard Delivery: FREE!
Your new furniture will be delivered and brought to your front door (or building entrance).

*For apartment residents, the delivery will be brought to either the apartment loading dock, or the nearest ground level entry of the apartment building. Depending on the apartment building, some deliveries must be left at the apartments main office.

White Glove Gold In-Home: $99
Your new furniture will be brought into your home, unpacked and set up in your room of choice. Includes up to 1/2 hour of minor assembly, and up to 1 flight of stairs. Any additional arrangements are subject to charge by the delivery agent. The packaging materials will also be removed and discarded on your behalf.

White Glove Platinum In-Home: $199
Your new furniture will be brought into your home, unpacked and set up in your room of choice. Includes 1 hour of minor assembly, and up to 1 flight of stairs. Any additional arrangements are subject to charge by the delivery agent. The packaging materials will also be removed and discarded on your behalf.

White Glove Platinum Plus In-Home: $399
Your new furniture will be brought into your home, unpacked and set up in your room of choice. Includes up to 3 hours of assembly, and up to 1 flight of stairs. Any additional arrangements are subject to charge by the delivery agent. The packaging materials will also be removed and discarded on your behalf.

So my point is, while you may be able to find that great dining set online for just $599 and think you are getting a great deal, the truth is you're not! If you bought it locally you would be charged a nominal delivery fee which would include set-up. If you want to avoid a delivery fee altogether, you can pick it up yourself rather than wait 4-6 weeks just to get it brought into your apartment!