Print this page and keep it by the door on delivery day. Your walk-in tub arrives fully assembled on a freight truck, and a few minutes of inspection while the driver is there, followed by a careful unpack, protect your ability to claim any damage. The rule to remember: report any damage or missing parts within 48 hours of receipt, and save all packaging. This is the tick-box version; the full walkthrough, with the receiving video, is how to inspect the delivery before signing.

Before the Truck Arrives

• ☐ Someone able to receive and inspect the crate is home for the delivery window
• ☐ Your installer or at least two able helpers will move the crate; the driver does not carry it inside
• ☐ The path from the entrance to the bathroom is measured against the shipping size, not the tub size
• ☐ A garage or covered spot is ready if the crate must wait for the installer

Details in how to prepare for delivery day.

Before the Driver Leaves

• ☐ Walk around the crate and photograph every side, the top and the skid; light scuffs are normal, but document them anyway
• ☐ Write every scuff, dent or puncture on the delivery document and have the driver sign it; unrecorded damage cannot be claimed
• ☐ If you cannot inspect fully, sign "subject to further inspection"
• ☐ If the crate is severely damaged, call (800) 480-6850 before the truck leaves; you may reject the delivery
• ☐ Keep your copy of the bill of lading

After the Driver Leaves: Unpack and Inspect

• ☐ Open carefully and save all packaging, including the crate, until installation is complete
• ☐ Inspect the shell, door, glass, finish and every fitting for concealed damage
• ☐ If the silicone door seal deformed in shipping, squeeze it with your fingertips and pull it away from the frame; see door seal care
• ☐ Plan the pre-installation water test before the walls are finished; a complete inspection is visual and operational

Small Parts to Account for

• ☐ Parts box inside the tub or under the frame: drains, handles, hardware, accessories
• ☐ Headrest and hardware, sometimes in the envelope on top of the wrap
• ☐ End panel screws, often taped behind the end panel or in a small bag in the parts box, with the screw caps
• ☐ Installation paperwork attached to the tub, plus the owner's manual
• ☐ Open every box before reporting anything missing; see the crate inventory checklist

Moving the Tub Inside

• ☐ Remove the front apron, access panels and end panels before carrying
• ☐ Lift by the frame only, never by the plumbing, panels or fittings
• ☐ Leave the tub wrapped on its pallet until the installer is ready; see moving your tub the right way

The 48-Hour Rule

• ☐ Damage or missing parts, including concealed damage: report within 48 hours of receipt to [email protected] with photos, your invoice and the bill of lading, or call (800) 480-6850
• ☐ If you purchased through a dealer, tell them as well, since they hold your order
• ☐ Packaging saved; returns need the original packaging

Small damaged pieces can usually be replaced individually; the first 48 hours after freight damage walks through the claim, or open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support.

Common Questions