Flooring Online: Savings & Scams? The Truth You NEED to Know

Is Buying Flooring Online Worth It?

Understanding the difference between freight and shipping can be a game-changer, especially when it comes to purchasing larger items like flooring. While online shopping for flooring may seem convenient, there are significant drawbacks and complexities that consumers should be aware of. In this article, we'll explore the pitfalls of buying flooring online and the importance of understanding freight and shipping in the process.

E-commerce has revolutionized the way we shop, offering convenience, variety, and often competitive pricing. With just a few clicks, consumers can browse a vast array of flooring options from the comfort of their homes. However, when it comes to larger items like flooring, the convenience of online shopping can quickly turn into frustration and disappointment.

One of the primary disbenefits of buying flooring online is the lack of personalized service and expertise. Unlike visiting a brick-and-mortar showroom where you can interact with knowledgeable staff and see and touch the products in person, online shopping relies solely on digital images and descriptions. This can make it challenging to assess the quality, color, texture, and other important characteristics of the flooring accurately.

While the terms "shipping" and "freight" are often used interchangeably, they actually refer to distinct aspects of the transportation process.

Let's start with shipping. When you think of online shopping, shipping is the process that brings those smaller items right to your doorstep. Think books, electronics, clothing, and other everyday items that are easy to handle and transport. Logistics auditors define shipping as the transport of goods weighing under 70 lbs, typically sent through carriers like UPS, FedEx, or DHL.

Now, let's delve into freight. Freight is the term reserved for larger, heavier items that don't fit the typical criteria for shipping. This includes bulkier items like flooring materials. Freight shipping involves the transportation of commodities, goods, and cargo by land, sea, or air.

Unlike small parcel shipments, which are often sent in standard packaging, freight items are usually transported on wooden pallets.

However, it's worth noting that while e-commerce flooring may seem convenient, there are potential drawbacks to consider. When something goes wrong with the shipment, returning the flooring can become a nightmare. Costs, delays, and the installer's unfamiliar with the product can all pose significant challenges.

Consider the story of Sarah, a homeowner who decided to purchase hardwood flooring online for her renovation project. Excited about the convenience and competitive pricing, Sarah placed her order and eagerly awaited delivery. However, when the flooring arrived, she discovered that several boxes were damaged during transit. Despite contacting the online retailer, Sarah faced delays and additional expenses in returning the damaged flooring and sourcing a replacement.

Similarly, John, a flooring contractor, shares his experience with e-commerce flooring. In an attempt to save time and money, John ordered luxury vinyl plank flooring online for a client's home renovation. However, upon delivery, he realized that the color and texture of the flooring didn't match the samples he had selected. Unable to return the flooring easily, John faced a dilemma as he had to either absorb the cost of the mismatched flooring or wait for a replacement, delaying the project and inconveniencing his client.

These anecdotes highlight the potential pitfalls of relying solely on e-commerce for flooring purchases. While the convenience of online shopping is undeniable, the risks associated with damaged or mismatched products can outweigh the benefits. Additionally, the lack of personalized service and expertise can lead to frustrations for both homeowners and contractors alike.

Moreover, when it comes to receiving freight shipments at residential areas, additional considerations come into play. Pallets delivered to a residential location may require a truck lift gate or the homeowner to have access to a forklift for unloading. This adds another layer of complexity to the delivery process, especially for those without the necessary equipment or resources.

Got them set down on the driveway? Great! Who’s going to take them inside? You may say, “Easy, my installer will do it.” Sounds good. When? “Sometime next week.” Did you know that rain or shine, it’s not good to leave hardwood, vinyl, or laminate flooring outdoors overnight? This is a true story from Jake, a 60-year old, who ended up hauling everything inside, while regretting his own decision.

In contrast, working with a reputable flooring supplier offers numerous advantages. From personalized guidance on product selection to professional installation services, a trusted supplier helps customer satisfaction at every step of the process. For example, Mary, a homeowner, shares her positive experience with us. When she visited the showroom, she received personalized recommendations based on her preferences and budget. We then arranged for prompt delivery and installation, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.

Similarly, Mark, a flooring contractor, emphasizes the importance of building relationships with us. By partnering with a trusted supplier, Mark benefits from access to high-quality products, competitive pricing, and reliable customer support. Whether he needs assistance with product selection or logistics, he can rely on his supplier to provide expert guidance and timely solutions.

To address the challenges and limitations of online flooring shopping, Redeemed Hardwood Flooring and Decking offers a unique solution that combines the convenience of online browsing with personalized, in-home service. Our team understands the importance of seeing and feeling flooring samples in the context of your home's lighting, decor, and overall aesthetic. That's why we're committed to bringing the showroom experience directly to our customers' doorsteps.

Especially when it comes to hardwood flooring, a small swatch of sample won't suffice, as wood colors and grain patterns can vary significantly from one plank to another. Understanding this variation is essential for making an informed decision about which flooring option best complements your home's aesthetic and style. We recognize the importance of providing our customers with a comprehensive understanding of the hardwood flooring options available to them.

With Redeemed Hardwood Flooring and Decking, you can schedule a consultation with one of our flooring experts who will bring a curated selection of samples based on your preferences and project requirements. This personalized service allows you to shop from the comfort of your home while having the opportunity to discuss your options and ask questions with a real-life person. Whether you're exploring hardwood, laminate, or vinyl flooring, our knowledgeable team is here to provide guidance and support every step of the way. Experience the convenience of online shopping with the added benefit of meeting with a flooring expert who understands the unique needs and challenges of your home.

In conclusion, while e-commerce may offer convenience and competitive pricing, it's essential to weigh the potential risks and drawbacks, particularly when purchasing larger items like flooring. By understanding the difference between freight and shipping and seeking guidance from trusted suppliers, homeowners and contractors can navigate the purchasing process with confidence and peace of mind. After all, when it comes to home renovations, investing in quality products and personalized service is always worth it in the long run. If you have any questions about shipping, freight, or anything else, we're here to help!

Last Words

We know how a flooring & decking project is a mammoth undertaking for you… and can be very expensive. But if you’re not in a rush, I encourage you to shop around. Then check us out. We're a Factory Direct Store, so our prices are cheaper than any other places. We import the woods ourselves, passing along the savings to you. And we have pro installers with 15+ years of experience, at your service. Should you have any further questions, please email us at hello@redeemedflooring.com.