What is white glove delivery and why do I need it?

What does the phrase "white-glove service” mean? In short, it's a top-tier level of customer service that is provided with extreme care and precision. The term "specialty crating, packaging, and shipping" not only applies to the literal meaning of the words but can also be interpreted as an extension of other services.

Standard shipping, for example, is the process of transporting items from their place of origin to where they need to go, and then the customer takes it from there. Dependable white-glove services not only transport your items safely to their destination, but they also unpack and set them up for you. Companies offer this comprehensive service so that you can relax and let someone else take care of the details.

While white-glove service has its place, it isn't always necessary. More often than not, a company's standard shipping staff is just as qualified to handle and protect items with care. If your shipment requires white-glove service, it's in your best interest to partner with a company that specializes in that level of care when crating, packaging, and shipping.

"White glove"-About the term

The term white glove is used to denote excellent, courteous service. It's believed to harken back to a time when European nobility required that household staff wear gloves while handling expensive items made of silver--gloves protected the silver from skin oils that could tarnish it. Gloves come in all colors, but delivery teams to this day tend to use white gloves!

Of course, different sources have different definitions. The Cambridge Dictionary defines white glove as “providing a very high level of service or involving a lot of care about small details.” Dictionary.com says that white glove means “meticulous; painstaking; minute” (as in minute detail).

We think this definition from The Free Dictionary by Farlex provides a fitting explanation for what white glove delivery should entail. They define white gloves as “marked by extra attention or respect.” When you are handling someone's prized possessions, or even just entering their place of business or home, it is critical that respect is shown. Never forget that the items being handled with white-glove services are especially crucial to both the people receiving them and the people shipping them.

What are the benefits of using white glove shipping services?

White glove shipping services provide a number of benefits for businesses and consumers alike. Perhaps the most obvious benefit is that it provides a layer of protection for fragile or expensive items. By using white glove shipping services, businesses can be assured that their products will be handled with care and delivered in the same condition they were in when they left the warehouse. This is especially important for businesses that sell high-end, sensitive, or delicate products.

Who needs white-glove delivery services?

White-glove shipping service is designed for people or businesses who need special handling with their shipments. You might benefit from this type of service if you:

Own expensive artwork, antiques, or other irreplaceable items.

"Expensive" not only refers to the monetary value of an item but also items with high sentimental value (that may not have a high price tag). These items might need white-glove shipping.

Are an art or antique gallery owner.

If a single delivery goes awry and harms the asset, it could damage the whole gallery's reputation. For this reason, most galleries elect to use white-glove delivery services. Creating this partnership not only sends a reassuring message to customers that their satisfaction is paramount, but also guarantees the safe and secure arrival of artwork or antiques exactly as they left the gallery.

Manufacture fine furniture.

Customers who purchase high-end furniture items expect them to not only be delivered with care but also respect for their home or business environment.

Build or remodel high-end properties.

Contractors and builders who specialize in custom homes or commercial spaces often use white-glove delivery services for expensive materials like a custom, handcrafted fireplace mantle or a one-of-a-kind marble countertop.

Are an interior designer.

Expensive projects call for white-glove delivery services to make sure the products arrive in pristine condition. The last thing you want is a project to be ruined or set back because things were damaged in transit; this could damage your reputation as well.

Deal in IT equipment and/or medical devices.

High-value IT equipment, such as servers, or hospital-grade medical devices, may require white glove delivery services.

How to choose a white glove delivery service

How do you choose the right white glove delivery service for your needs? Here are a few tips:

1. Do your research.

There are many different white glove delivery services available, so it's important to compare their prices and services before making a decision. Ask friends and family members for recommendations or check online reviews to get an idea of what other customers have said about specific companies.

2. Consider your budget.

White glove delivery services can be expensive, so it's important to find one that fits within your budget. Some companies offer basic packages for less money, while others provide more comprehensive services but at a higher price point.

3. Read the fine print.

Make sure you understand the terms and conditions of any agreement before signing up with a white glove delivery service. This includes understanding how much notice you need to give if you need to cancel or change your order, as well as any fees that may be associated with canceling or changing your order. Make sure to ask about their history of cargo claims, and find their level of cargo insurance.

4. Ask about tracking.

Find out how the company you're considering tracks packages and items throughout the delivery process. This can give you peace of mind knowing that you'll be able to track your package and see exactly where it is at all times.

5. Get a quote.

Once you've decided on a white glove delivery service, be sure to get a quote for the services you need. This will help you compare prices and make sure you're getting the best deal possible.

By following these tips, you can be sure to choose the right white glove delivery service for your needs.

A real-world example

<Revolution case study>

With Revolution Trucking, your high-value critical shipment is in the very best hands. Contact us today to start your white-glove revolution!

How to prepare for white glove delivery

If you choose this type of delivery, be sure to take some precautions on your end to help ensure a smooth process. For instance, clear a path from the entryway to the spot where you'd like the boxes or crates placed. This will make it easier for crew members and prevent any accidents. Before your delivery arrives, do a quick clean of any obstacles that could prevent easy access from the door to where you want the item delivered. This includes rugs, cords, and other tripping hazards.

Always have a plan for protecting your floors, walls, doorways, etc. in case the delivery crew needs assistance. They may prefer to do it themselves, but it is always good to be prepared.

When the shipping company arrives with your crate, it's best if an adult is present. If not, someone should at least be close by in case of any unforeseen issues.

What is the cost of white glove service?

Technically, the cost is determined as the value of the freight for cargo liability coverage. White-glove shipping is more expensive than standard shipping due to the extra time and effort required. The cost difference is dependent on various elements, such as:

• The size, shape, and weight of your shipment. Heavier and oddly-shaped items are usually more difficult to ship and come with a higher price tag.
• The inside locations where a crew would pick up or drop off a white-glove shipment: for example, multiple flights of stairs within a home or business, will affect the price.
• The locations where items are picked up or dropped off. A city's or an airport's proximity to our major hubs affects how much it costs for white-glove delivery service.

White-glove shipping service, though it may cost more, may still be a small price to pay for the security of your assets and the convenience of those who will be shipping and receiving them.