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I just placed my walk-in tub order, what happens next?

Updated September 2026

▶Glossary7
  1. The Journey Your Order Takes
  2. Inside the Quality-Control Process
  3. What You Will Receive, and When to Expect Updates
  4. Why There Is No Fixed Delivery Date
  5. A Quick Note on Delivery Scheduling
  6. Related Guides
  7. Common Questions

Thank you for choosing Ella's Bubbles. After you place your walk-in tub order, your tub is assembled, jetted, tested, cleaned and carefully packed at the Chicago facility, then shipped to you by freight carrier. You receive an order confirmation when your purchase is complete, and a shipment confirmation with a tracking number by email once your product ships, typically within 24 hours of the tub leaving the facility. Because every tub is built to your configuration, timing varies with the model, the therapy options you selected, current stock and your delivery location, so the most reliable status for your specific order always comes from your Ella dealer or the team.

The Journey Your Order Takes

This short video follows a tub from purchase through assembly, testing, packing and shipping, so you can see exactly what happens between your order and your delivery day.

Fast, Safe Shipping and Hassle-Free Returns
Chapters in this video
  1. 0:00 Ella's Bubbles Tub Production The video shows the assembly, testing, and packing process of an Ella's Bubbles walk-in tub in the United States.
  2. 1:11 Receiving Your Tub The video explains how to inspect the shipping crate upon delivery and what to do if there is damage.
  3. 2:03 Damage After Unpacking The video describes the steps to take if damage is discovered after unpacking the walk-in tub.

Here is that same journey in plain steps: Watch: Fast, Safe Shipping & Hassle-Free Returns | Ellau2019s Bubbles Walk-In Tubs with chapters and a full transcript.

  1. Order confirmed. Your purchase is finalized and your order enters production planning.
  2. Assembly. Well trained craftsmen at the production facility assemble your walk-in tub to your exact configuration.
  3. Testing and inspection. Your tub is rigorously tested to confirm it is leak free and that all pumps and motors are running perfectly.
  4. Cleaning and parts packing. The tub is thoroughly cleaned, and small items such as drains and handles are accounted for, individually wrapped, boxed, and placed inside the tub or under the frame.
  5. Protective wrapping. The tub is wrapped in plastic and then bubble wrapped for additional shipping protection.
  6. Documents double checked. The invoice and bill of lading are verified against your order.
  7. Crating. Your tub is boxed in a wooden crate or an extra strong reinforced cardboard container.
  8. Shipping. Your crated tub ships to you with a third party LTL freight carrier.
Ella walk-in tub wrapped in protective plastic packaging with boxed accessories on top, ready for freight delivery
A finished tub, wrapped and staged with its boxed accessories before crating.

Inside the Quality-Control Process

Walk-In Tub Quality Control and Testing
Chapters in this video
  1. 0:00 Initial Inspection and Unboxing Each Ella's Bubbles walk-in tub is unboxed, and its surface is inspected for any shipping damage.
  2. 0:22 Rigorous Testing and Quality Checks The assembled tub undergoes extensive testing for leaks, pump function, and the integrity of all mechanical systems, doors, latches, locks, and seals.
  3. 0:43 Final Cleaning and Packaging After passing inspections, the tub is cleaned, dried, and prepared for boxing, with accessories individually wrapped.
  4. 1:17 Re-wrapping and Shipping Preparation The tub is re-wrapped in protective plastic and bubble wrap, and important installation paperwork is attached before secure mounting in its shipping case.
  5. 1:51 Invoice Verification and Shipment The individual invoice is double-checked and copied to ensure accurate records before the Ella's Bubbles walk-in tub is shipped to its destination.

Watch: Ella's Bubbles: Walk-In Tub Quality Control and Testing with chapters and a full transcript.

This second video shows the testing in more detail: each shell is unboxed and inspected for scratches at the warehouse, assembled to the order, leak-tested with the pumps running and the door, latches and seals checked, cleaned, labeled, re-wrapped in plastic and bubble wrap with the accessories individually boxed, then crated with the paperwork attached and the invoice double-checked before it is released. The full video tour of how your tub is built, tested and packed adds the packaging walkthrough.

What You Will Receive, and When to Expect Updates

MilestoneWhat you receive
Order placedOrder confirmation by email
Product shipsShipment confirmation and tracking number by email
Delivery schedulingThe freight carrier calls to arrange final delivery to your location

If a confirmation has not arrived, check your spam folder first, then open a ticket with the name and email used on the order and the team will resend it. The article on proposals and order confirmations explains what each document contains.

Why There Is No Fixed Delivery Date

Every Ella walk-in tub is made to order, and total time depends on the model, the options selected, current stock levels and how far your home is from the Chicago facility. Rather than publish a date that may not match your specific order, the team invites you to ask directly, and is always happy to check:

  • Order status or tracking questions: open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support with your order number, or contact your Ella dealer if you ordered through one.
  • Shipping questions: call (800) 480-6850 and the team will look up your order.
  • Retailer orders: if you purchased through Home Depot, Menards, Amazon or another retailer, the retailer holds the order and the tracking. See retailer purchases and support.

A Quick Note on Delivery Scheduling

Walk-in tubs ship as freight, not as parcel packages. Once your tub is with the carrier, the tracking number in your shipment confirmation email lets you follow its progress, and the carrier handles the final delivery arrangements for your area. If anything about your tracking looks unclear, send your order number through a ticket and the team will sort it out with the carrier for you. In the meantime, the article on preparing for delivery day explains what curbside liftgate delivery means and how to measure your doorways, and the delivery inspection checklist shows what to do before you sign.

Common Questions

How long does it take to get my tub after I order?
Every Ella walk-in tub is assembled, jetted and leak-tested to order at the Chicago facility, so the total time depends on the model, the therapy options chosen, current stock and your delivery location. Rather than publish a date that may not match your order, we invite you to ask directly. Your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 can check production and shipping status for your specific order, and you will receive a shipment confirmation with a tracking number by email once the tub ships.
How do I check stock before I decide?
Most popular models and configurations are usually in inventory, but a specific combination of side, door and therapy package can be out at any moment, and stock moves first come, first served. Have the model, door side and therapy package ready, then ask your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850. They will confirm what is available for that exact configuration before you decide.
Where is my order and how do I get tracking?
Once your tub leaves the facility you receive a shipment confirmation email with the freight tracking number, typically within 24 hours of the tub leaving the facility, and the carrier calls to schedule a delivery appointment for your location. For a status update before then, open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support with your name and order details, or contact your Ella dealer if you ordered through one. If you purchased through a retailer, the retailer holds the order and the tracking.
I never received an order confirmation.
Check your spam or junk folder first, since confirmations are sent by email and occasionally land there. If it is not there, open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support with the name and email address used on the order, and the team will resend it. The same applies to the shipment confirmation that carries your tracking number.
Can I change the door side or therapy package after ordering?
Changes are easiest before the order is confirmed and enters production planning. After that, open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support right away with your order reference and the change you need, or contact your Ella dealer if you ordered through one. Whether a change is still possible depends on where the tub is in the build, so the sooner the team hears from you, the more options remain.
Can I expedite my order?
Ask the team, and they will tell you honestly what is possible. Every tub is built to order, and once crated it moves on the freight carrier's schedule, so the options depend on your configuration and destination. Open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support or call (800) 480-6850 with your order details, and the team will check what can be done for your specific order.
Does the tub ship assembled?
Yes. Every tub ships fully assembled, jetted and tested, wrapped in plastic and bubble wrap, and crated with the side panels packed for the move. Before carrying the tub inside, remove the panels and lift only by the frame, never by the plumbing, panels or fittings.
What should I do while I wait?
Line up your installer so the tub does not wait longer than necessary once it arrives. Measure the path from your front door to the bathroom, including every turn, against the shipping size printed on your model's specification sheet. Plan for two or more people or your installer to move the crate inside on delivery day, since the carrier delivers to the curb and does not carry the tub indoors.
Will I receive the freight carrier's phone number along with my tracking information?
Yes, along with your tracking number you also receive the shipping company's phone number so you can reach them directly about your delivery. This lets you coordinate details or ask questions about the route your tub is taking. If you need help interpreting anything in your tracking details, your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 can assist.
Who should inspect the crate when my walk-in tub delivery arrives?
It is recommended that your contractor or installer inspect the crate and box for any damage as soon as your tub arrives. Checking the packaging closely before you sign for the delivery helps catch shipping damage early. The delivery inspection checklist explains what else to look for before you accept the shipment.
What should I do if I find damage on my crate during delivery?
Shipping damages to the crate or box must be reported within five business days of delivery. If you discover damage, you should refuse the shipment rather than accept it. Open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support or call (800) 480-6850 right away so the team can help resolve it with the carrier.
Can I have my walk-in tub shipped to a different address, such as a new construction home?
Yes, if your tub needs to go to an address other than the one on file, such as a new construction home, contact your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 or open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support with your order number and the correct shipping address. The sooner this is confirmed, the more likely it is that the correct address is on record before the freight carrier schedules delivery. Always verify the address change before your ship date to avoid delivery delays.
Who do I contact if I need to change the delivery appointment the carrier scheduled?
Once your tub ships, the freight carrier calls to arrange delivery, and you can work directly with them using the phone number included in your tracking email to adjust the appointment. If you have trouble reaching the carrier or need help resolving a scheduling conflict, your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 can step in and assist. Keep your tracking number on hand so it is easy for either the carrier or the team to locate your shipment.
What happens after I report shipping damage on my walk-in tub order?
Once you report damage through a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support or by calling (800) 480-6850, the team works with you to arrange a replacement tub. Your replacement ships with its own tracking number, sent to you by email just like your original order. Refusing a visibly damaged crate at delivery, rather than accepting it, helps keep this process moving smoothly.
Does Ella's Bubbles accept partial payments to begin producing my walk-in tub order?
Full payment is required before an order can move into production and shipping, so partial payments are not accepted. Your order enters the assembly and testing process only once payment is complete. If you have any questions about your specific order, your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 can help.
Does Ella's Bubbles sell walk-in tubs through Home Depot?
Yes, Ella's Bubbles walk-in tubs are available through Home Depot along with other retail partners. Because every tub is made to order, it is not typically kept in stock on the shelf, so check with Home Depot or your Ella dealer for current availability. If you purchase through Home Depot, that retailer holds your order and tracking information.
Do I need to select my drain side before placing my walk-in tub order?
Your drain side, left or right, is one of the final configuration details confirmed as your order is completed, though it is not needed for earlier decisions on model and options. Confirm your drain side with your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 so your order details are accurate before production begins.
Can I purchase my walk-in tub now but have delivery held until I'm ready?
Yes, your order can be held until you are ready for delivery. Reach out to your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 to arrange timing that works for your schedule. This gives you flexibility to line up your installer before the tub arrives.
Does Home Depot require my phone number to process a walk-in tub order?
Yes, a phone number is required to process orders placed through Home Depot. This allows the retailer to reach you if any order details need to be confirmed. Since Home Depot holds the order and tracking for retailer purchases, contact them directly with related questions.
Which side are the drains on if my walk-in tub has a right-side door?
The door and drains sit on opposite sides of the tub as you face it, so a right-side door tub has its drains on the left, and a left-side door tub has its drains on the right. Confirm your door and drain side with your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 before production begins so your configuration is accurate.
How quickly do I need to report damage on my walk-in tub shipment?
Shipping damage should be reported within 48 hours of receiving your shipment, so reach out through ellasbubbles.com/support or call (800) 480-6850 as soon as you notice it. Save all of the packaging material and inspect your tub both visually and by testing its operation, since some damage is not obvious right away. If you spot damage while the carrier is still there, refuse the shipment rather than accepting it.
Do I need to confirm my invoice before Ella's Bubbles processes payment for my order?
Yes, you will receive an invoice by email that breaks down everything included in your order, and you will need to open the attached invoice to review it. Payment details are not processed until you reply confirming that everything is correct. If anything looks off, contact your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 before you reply.
Can I place a pre-order for a walk-in tub that is currently on back order?
Yes, pre-orders are accepted for models that are temporarily on back order. Your payment method is not charged until the tub is physically available and ready to move into production. Contact your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 for the latest availability on your specific configuration.
Are Ella's Bubbles walk-in tubs shipped on a pallet?
Yes, your crated or boxed tub is placed on a pallet for stability during freight transit. Inspect the pallet and packaging closely when your shipment arrives, since damage there can be a sign of damage to the tub itself. The delivery inspection checklist explains what else to check before you sign for the delivery.
Where does my walk-in tub ship from before it reaches me?
Every Ella walk-in tub is assembled, tested and packed at the Chicago production facility before it ships out. From there it travels to your delivery location with a third-party freight carrier. You will receive a shipment confirmation email with tracking information once your tub is on its way.
When will the freight carrier call me to schedule my walk-in tub delivery?
The carrier calls to set up a curbside delivery appointment once your tub has arrived at the destination terminal serving your area, not at the moment it leaves the Chicago facility. Until then, the tracking number in your shipment confirmation email lets you follow the shipment's progress. If you have not heard from the carrier after tracking shows the tub has reached your area, your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 can help you connect with them.
Do I need an email address to place my walk-in tub order?
Yes, a valid email address is needed when your order is placed. Your order confirmation and, later, your shipment confirmation with the tracking number are both sent by email, so the address on file is how you stay informed about your order. Double check the spelling of the email you provide so those confirmations reach you without delay.
Can I set up a contractor or reseller account with Ella's Bubbles?
Yes, contractors and resellers can set up an account with Ella's Bubbles. To get started, open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support or call (800) 480-6850 and share your business details, and the team will guide you through the account setup. Having an account in place makes it simpler to manage future walk-in tub and shower orders.
Do small parts like apron clips ship the same way as my walk-in tub?
No, small items such as apron clips are sent as parcel packages with their own tracking number rather than by freight. You receive that tracking number by email so you can follow the package separately from any tub shipment. If a small parts package seems delayed, open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support with your order details and the team will look into it.
Is there a walk-in tub model called the TransferXXXL?
There is no separate TransferXXXL model in the Ella's Bubbles lineup. Any schematic or spec sheet listing "XXXL" is a misprint referring to the TransferXXL, and both documents describe the same system. If you have questions about this model's features, your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 can confirm the details for you.
Can I see an Ella's Bubbles tub without visiting Chicago in person?
Yes, if you cannot visit the Chicago facility in person, you can schedule a live video presentation so a team member can show you specific models from the warehouse. This lets you view the features and finishes of the tub you are considering from wherever you are. Contact your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 to set up a video walkthrough.
Does Ella's Bubbles ship walk-in tubs outside the United States?
Yes, Ella's Bubbles ships walk-in tubs throughout the United States and Canada. Delivery still goes through a third-party freight carrier, so your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 can confirm shipping details for your specific location.
Can I still make changes to my proposal before it becomes an order?
Yes, a proposal is not final, so its configuration and details can still be changed before it becomes an order. Once you confirm the details and the order is placed, it moves into production planning. Reach out to your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 to adjust anything on your proposal beforehand.
Can a bifold shower screen ship in the same box as my walk-in tub order?
Yes, when both items are in stock, a bifold screen can ship together with your walk-in tub in the same box, as is common with laydown models. If the screen is out of stock at the time of your order, it will simply be shipped on its own once it becomes available. Your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 can confirm whether your bifold screen will ship with your tub or separately.
What happens if I do not schedule a delivery appointment for my walk-in tub?
Your walk-in tub ships as freight, and the carrier needs a scheduled appointment to complete delivery. If an appointment is not arranged, the shipment can be returned rather than delivered. Watch for the carrier's call after your tracking email arrives, and reach out to your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 if you need help coordinating it.
Can my walk-in tub be delivered to a business address without scheduling a specific appointment?
Yes, business addresses with staff present during normal business hours can often receive delivery without a specific scheduled appointment. Clear communication with the freight carrier about your hours of operation still helps the delivery go smoothly. Your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 can help coordinate these details with the carrier.
Can I get my walk-in tub's tracking number sent by text instead of email?
Yes, in addition to the email confirmation, your tracking number can also be sent to you by text message. Just let your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 know your preference so you receive it the way that works best for you.
How do I confirm the invoice email I receive from Ella's Bubbles?
Once your invoice is sent for review, simply reply to that email with the word accepted or approved to confirm the details are correct. This lets your order move forward in processing. If anything on the invoice looks off, your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 can help before you reply.
Is it safe to reply to an invoice email from an unfamiliar name at Ella's Bubbles?
Confirmation invoices for your order are sent by email as part of normal order processing, so an unfamiliar sender name does not necessarily mean anything is wrong. If you want to double check before replying, contact your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 to verify it. Once you are confident the invoice is accurate, you can reply with accepted or approved.
Will I receive another invoice after my payment for my order clears?
Yes, once your payment clears you will receive a final invoice marked paid by email for your records. This follows the confirmation invoice you already reviewed and approved earlier in the process. If you need this resent, open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support or contact your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850.
Does Ella's Bubbles work directly with VA hospitals?
Ella's Bubbles does not deal directly with VA hospitals. Your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 can provide a proposal for you to submit to the agency yourself. That gives you the documentation you need for your own request.
What is different about a clearance walk-in tub?
Clearance tubs have minor acrylic imperfections, such as scratches, but they are fully functional. Each clearance tub has a video link that shows that specific tub and its imperfections. You can see exactly what you are getting before you decide.
Can a clearance walk-in tub be modified before it ships?
Clearance tubs are sold as described and cannot be modified, for example to change the drain location. Before you order, review the video of the specific tub and confirm the details with your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850. If you need a particular configuration, a tub made to order may be the better fit.
Can I add heated seat and back to my walk-in tub order?
Yes, heated seat and back is an option for tubs and can be added as an accessory on the same purchase order. Ask your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 to confirm it for your configuration before your order is finalized.
Can I pay for my walk-in tub order with a credit card?
Credit card payments for orders still require a phone call to process. Contact your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 to complete the payment, and keep in mind that your order moves into production once payment is complete.
Where do I choose commercial or residential delivery for my tub?
Delivery type is not picked on the order form itself. The shipping details, such as commercial, commercial plus lift gate or residential plus lift gate, are typically handled after the order form is submitted, and an invoice is then sent to you for confirmation. Review that invoice to be sure the delivery type matches your location, and expect a call ahead of delivery to coordinate access for the tub.
Why does Ella's Bubbles need my phone number to process my walk-in tub order?
A customer phone number is needed to process your walk-in tub order, so please have a working number ready when you order. It also gives the freight carrier a way to reach you to arrange delivery once your tub ships. If you have questions about your order, your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 is happy to help.
Who receives the confirmation invoice for my walk-in tub order?
Confirmation invoices are sent to both the customer and the person paying for the order. This means that if someone else is covering the payment, they receive their own copy. If an invoice has not arrived, check your spam folder first, then open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support and the team will be glad to help.
How much doorway and hallway clearance does my walk-in tub need for delivery?
A minimum of 33 inches of clearance is required through all doorways and hallways leading to the bathroom. Measure the full path from your entry door to the bathroom, including every turn, before delivery day. Your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 is happy to help if you have questions about your path.
Who sends my tracking number if I purchased my tub through Home Depot?
If you purchased through Home Depot, tracking numbers are sent by Home Depot once your item ships. Because the retailer holds your order, they are the best first stop for tracking details. Your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 can also help if anything looks unclear.
Why does Home Depot show my walk-in tub as in stock online?
Ella walk-in tubs purchased through Home Depot.com are made to order, even when the listing says the tub is in stock. Because of this, the online availability shown may not reflect how soon your specific tub can ship. For current timing on your order, contact where you purchased or the team at (800) 480-6850.
Do I need to confirm my invoice before my order goes to production?
Yes, confirming your invoice by email is required before your order is sent on to production. Watching for that email and replying promptly helps your order keep moving. If you have not received it, check your spam folder, then open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support or call (800) 480-6850.
What are my options if the shower screen for my tub is out of stock?
If a shower screen is out of stock, you have two choices. You can have the tub ship later together with the screen at no extra charge, or you can have the tub ship right away and the screen follow later, which carries an extra shipping charge. Your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 can help you decide which works best for your installation.
Will I get tracking information once my walk-in tub order ships?
Yes, tracking information is provided once your order ships. It arrives by email in your shipment confirmation, so you can follow your tub as it travels with the freight carrier. If it has not arrived, your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 can help.
Why does my tracking link ask for a login or not show a tracking number option?
The first tracking link you receive may not show a clear tracking number option, and it might ask you to log in. This can be confusing, but your tub is still moving through the shipping process. Your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 can help you find the right way to follow your shipment, or you can open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support with your order details.
Who books the freight pickup for my walk-in tub?
Beyond handles the booking and sends the documents for pickup. Ella's Bubbles then places the documents on the unit so everything is ready for the carrier when they arrive. If you have questions about where your order stands, your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 is happy to help.
What is the bill of lading and does it list my tub's serial number?
The bill of lading is the shipping document the trucker signs when the tub is picked up. It includes the serial number of your unit, so the paperwork matches the exact tub being shipped. Ella's Bubbles places the documents on the unit for carrier pickup.
How will the freight carrier notify me before my tub is delivered?
You will receive a notification from the carrier by email or text ahead of delivery. It typically comes with 24 hours of notice, so it helps to keep your phone and email handy. If you miss it or need to adjust the appointment, your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 can help.

Still need help? Open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support or call (800) 480-6850 and the team will be glad to assist.

About this guide. Answers in the Ella’s Bubbles Support Center are compiled from real conversations with tub owners, our technicians’ notes and the product documentation, then reviewed by our team. Tub models and options have evolved over the years, so a detail here may differ slightly from your exact tub. If something looks different on yours, send us your serial number and a specialist will confirm it for your model.

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