Dining room table assembly - familyguidecentral.com

Do Dining Room Tables Come Assembled? (Tips you Won’t Find in the Instructions)

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So you’ve ordered that beautiful dining table online or in person. You choose to have it shipped to your house as soon as possible. Several days later, it’s here, but something’s wrong. The delivery man dropped a huge flat box, unassembled, in front of your doorstep.

What you had expected is box be fully assembled. You didn’t want to assemble it yourself and you don’t have the means nor the time to do it.

This is a story a friend of mine faced a few years back. She was a widowed, senior-aged woman who had found the dining table of her dreams. She couldn’t have assembled it herself since she was at that age.

Luckily for her, I wasn’t too far from her and didn’t have any problem with stopping by for several hours to help assemble it.

Do you have a grandmother or grandfather or even a friend like this?

We all have older loved ones who need a little bit of extra help. Assembling a large dining table is obviously out of the question. But what can we do to avoid this situation?

One thing we can do is educate ourselves so we know if a dining table comes pre-assembled. There are some delivery services that also help assemble the table after it’s been delivered. And then there are companies that preassemble the dining tables before shipping them out. There are several options out there to avoid what just happened to my senior friend.

The goal of this article is to get to the bottom of this issue and hopefully prevent problems. I want to give you a general idea of what you can expect when ordering a dining table online or at the store. Is it going to be pre-assembled? Is it going to require some elbow grease? Will someone like my grandma be capable of the task at hand once it’s delivered?

I don’t want what happened to my friend to happen to you, your mom, dad, grandma, grandpa, or friends.

Do dining room tables come assembled?

It depends on where you purchase your dining room table. Some dining room tables come already put together, while others may need to be put together first.

If you purchase a dining room table from a furniture store or a company that specializes in home furnishings, they may offer assembly services or have the option to sell you an assembled table for an additional fee.

If you purchase a dining room table from a website or online retailer, be sure to check the product description to see if it comes fully assembled or if some assembly is required. Some retailers may also offer assembly services for an additional fee.

It’s always a good idea to confirm whether a dining room table comes assembled or not before making a purchase, so you can plan accordingly and ensure that you have the necessary tools and time to put it together if needed.

What does “fully assembled” mean?

“Fully assembled” means that a product, such as a piece of furniture, has been put together and is ready for use without any further assembly required by the consumer.

It is a term for a product that has already been built and has all of its parts and pieces in their proper places.

In the case of a dining room table, a fully assembled table would be one that is complete and ready to be used for dining without any additional assembly required by the buyer.

Tips for assembling dining room tables

  1. Check the parts and hardware: Before starting the assembly process, make sure to check all the parts and hardware against the assembly instructions to ensure that everything is included and in good condition.
  2. Use a level: One issue that people often run into when assembling a table is an uneven surface. To avoid this, use a level to ensure that the table legs are even and stable. You can also use shims or furniture pads to level out any wobbling.
  3. Tighten screws gradually: When assembling a table, it’s important to tighten the screws gradually and evenly to avoid damaging the wood or causing misalignments. Use a manual screwdriver or a drill with a torque setting to ensure that the screws are tightened to the correct level.
  4. Watch out for glue drips: Some tables may require the use of glue to secure the joints. If you use too much glue or apply it unevenly, it can drip onto the table surface and leave unsightly marks. Be sure to wipe away any excess glue with a damp cloth before it dries.
  5. Use a rubber mallet: If you’re having trouble getting parts to fit together, try using a rubber mallet to gently tap them into place. This can help avoid damage to the wood or joints and ensure a tight fit.
  6. Apply a protective finish: Once the table is assembled, consider applying a protective finish to help prevent scratches and damage to the surface. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying times.
  7. Use a rafter square: A rafter square, also known as a framing square, is a tool that can be used to help ensure that the table legs are properly aligned and securely attached to the table top. To use a rafter square, place it against the corner of the table top and leg and adjust the leg until it is flush against the square. This can help ensure that the legs are at a perfect 90-degree angle to the table top and can prevent wobbling or instability.
  8. Seek professional help if needed: If you’re having difficulty with the assembly process or if you don’t have the necessary tools, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A furniture assembly service can help you assemble your table quickly and correctly, ensuring that it’s safe and sturdy for use.

Are there any assembly services available for dining room tables?

Yes, there are assembly services available for dining room tables. Many furniture stores and online retailers offer assembly services for an additional fee.

If you purchase a dining room table from a furniture store or a company that specializes in home furnishings, they may offer assembly services as part of the purchase or have the option to purchase an assembled table for an additional fee. In some cases, these services may be included for free depending on the cost of the table or current promotions.

If you purchase a dining room table from an online retailer, they may offer assembly services for an additional fee as well. Some online retailers have partnerships with professional assembly services that can come to your home and assemble the table for you.

Assembly services can be particularly helpful if you don’t have the necessary tools or experience to assemble a table yourself. Additionally, professional assembly can ensure that the table is assembled correctly and safely, reducing the risk of accidents or damage to the table.

How long does it take to assemble a dining room table?

A simple dining room table with few parts and straightforward assembly instructions may take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour to assemble.

But putting together a bigger, more complicated table with more parts and more intricate details could take several hours, especially if the job needs to be done by more than one person.

Table: Top retailers and their furniture assembly details

StoreShips Fully AssembledOffers Professional Assembly ServiceHauls Away Old TableGuaranteeCancellation Policy
WayfairNoYes, for a fixed priceNoMoney-back guarantee for unsatisfactory service, full or partial refund for damaged tableFull refund for cancellation made 24 hours before the appointment
TargetSome, based on the item descriptionNoFull refund for cancellation made 24 hours before the appointment
IKEANoYes, through TaskRabbitNoTaskRabbit guarantee up to $10,000 for damagesNo charge for cancellation made up to 24 hours before the job completion
AmazonRarelyYesYesSatisfaction guaranteed within 90 daysFull refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance
OverstockNoNoFor an extra feeReturns accepted within 30 days, you pay shippingNo cancellation policy
West ElmNoYesNo30-day warrantyCall customer service to cancel
One Kings LaneNoYes (excluding dining tables)NoN/AN/A

The top online furniture retailers

These days, it’s extremely difficult to find the right furniture without looking for it online first. Sure you can go straight to a brick and mortar to look at what’s available in person. But I recommend first doing the proper Google search to at least see and understand what’s out there.

I’ve compiled a list of some of the most popular online furniture stores available. These are in no means an exhaustive list, however, it is the most common that show up when you search for “dining table” on Google.

Some of these stores have physical locations, but all of them are able to ship your order to your home.

In order to understand what you’re getting, I’ve also compiled list in the next section of the article that will help you answer some of the most important questions you might have when ordering furniture online from these retail stores.

The following list will provide you with vital information regarding how shipping and delivery work with these types of companies. I’ve called each company and spoke to their representatives about the process of ordering, shipping, and delivering. I’ve also spoken to these companies about how their furniture and dining tables come and if there are any options to have it pre-assembled or post-assembled. I’ve asked if there are any fees included as well as warranties and anything else you as a customer should know about when selecting to buy and use their services.

Wayfair

Wayfair is a huge online furniture retailer. I mean it’s absolutely massive. If you’re looking for anything regarding home furniture, chances are, they’ve got it.

After talking to the receptionist over the phone about the process of choosing, purchasing, and setting up delivery, I was told that the process is extremely simple.

Does Wayfair ship their tables fully assembled?

Wayfair does not have any option to pre-assemble the dining table before its delivered.

Does Wayfair offer a professional assembly service after delivery?

Right at the beginning of your order, you are given the option of paying for a professional service that will assemble it for you.

You pay a fixed price during check out which is applied to your total order. Simply schedule a service appointment and have an adult there to let the servicemen in.

Now, Wayfair works with contractors and assembly companies for you in your local area. Wayfair does all the vetting for you so you know you’re getting the best and most professional service. You’ll even get a photo of the serviceman. The assembly company will reach out to you to schedule that appointment. They are even obligated to call you ahead of schedule to let you know when they will be arriving.

Do all dining tables have assembly services?

Unfortunately, the answer here is no. However, there are exceptions and if you call Wayfair, they can make an exception based on your circumstances.

The cost and fee will be determined and you will receive a notification about the solution.

How do I reschedule a service appointment?

You can reschedule at any time as long as it’s before 24 hours of the appointment. If you’re needing to reschedule, Wayfair has a toll-free number for that purpose, 866-263-8325. This number also doubles up as a customer service line. You can call them if you have any issues with your assembly service. You can also visit your online account and your order to reschedule as well.

Will Wayfair contractors haul away or dispose of my old table?

Unfortunately for anyone who’s needing to get rid of the older dining table, this isn’t an option at least for the company assembling the new table. The assembly company is not going to throw away your old dining table for you.

What’s the Wayfair home service guarantee?

If you’re not happy with the assembly service, you can get your money back. If your table is damaged in any way during the assembly, just contact Wayfair and they will discuss your options.

Depending on the type of damage and how little or big it may be, you might receive a partial refund and keep the table, or a full refund in which you’ll have to return the table.

Again, it’s the same number for any issue, 866-263-8325.

What’s the cancellation policy for the assembly service?

If you happen to change your mind and no longer need the assembly service, simply call that same number again, 866-263-8325. As long as you canceled at least 24 hours before your appointment then you will get a full refund.

Yes, you might get charged some amount or not get a full assembly refund if you cancel within 24 hours of your appointment.

Target

Target is a major retailer. You’ve probably heard or seen in it. It’s that huge building with a giant red bullseye as the company logo. They sell practically anything and everything regarding home products and furniture to even groceries.

Does Target ship their tables fully assembled?

A target representative told me that some dining tables are shipped fully assembled and some are shipped in parts.

That type of information will be explained in the item description so you can decide accordingly.

Simply scroll down to About this item > Show more > Specifications > Assembly details.

Does Target offer a professional assembly service after delivery?

No, Target does not have any professional assembly services that they contract with. Some of the smaller tables will be shipped fully assembled, however, that is rare and up to the manufacturer who’s built the table.

Larger tables will require that you assemble them yourself. You are also provided with a manual for instructions.

IKEA

Liked for its incredible affordability and easy to assemble furniture, IKEA is one of the general favorites of today’s time.

Does IKEA ship their tables fully assembled?

No. Dining tables purchased from IKEA are not assembled and shipped in parts.

Does IKEA offer a professional assembly service after delivery?

Nearly all dining tables small or large are shipped in parts and require some amount of assembly. Manuals are always included with instructions.

However, IKEA has contracted with a third-party company that provides assembly. They are called TaskRabbit. They work in tandem with IKEA and offer really good prices for assembly services. 

Do all dining tables have assembly services?

Yes. You can purchase any dining table however big or small and request taskrabbit to assemble it for you.

How do I reschedule a service appointment?

Taskrabbit actually hires independent contractors and individuals who are experienced with the job.

If you need to reschedule, you will be speaking to that contractor directly.

Will IKEA contractors TaskRabbit haul away or dispose of my old table?

Unfortunately no. These are however third-party contractors and so you can ask them if you like. Assumingly the independent contractor doesn’t have any other jobs or has time. You may be able to privately hire that person to haul it away for you if they have the means.

What’s the TaskRabbit happiness guarantee?

You are covered up to $10,000 on damages however there are certain restrictions so I invite you to read more about it here.

What’s the cancellation policy for the assembly service?

As long as you cancel up to 24 hours in advance, you will not be charged. Remember, you are charged only after the job is complete.

However, if you cancel within 24 hours of the scheduled appointment, you may be charged for 1 hour of the assembler’s hourly rate.

Amazon

Amazon needs no introduction when it comes to online retail. It is the biggest in the world.

Does Amazon ship their tables fully assembled?

Rarely. Amazon usually ships most, if not, all of their dining tables in parts.

Does Amazon offer a professional assembly service after delivery?

Yes. Amazon has a home service that will be able to help you assemble furniture. Simply type within Amazon’s search box assembly service and look for Table Assembly.

I didn’t get much luck since my area did not have the service available.

Do all dining tables have assembly services?

Yes. It seems like the dining service can also be separate from the actual purchase of the table. If it comes in parts, you can go onto Amazon and request the service at any time. That’s if the service is available in your location.

While making the purchase and if the purchase is eligible, you’ll see the Expert Installation option on the product page detail along with the cost. You can opt into this and even select the date and time you wish for the appointment.

How do I reschedule a service appointment?

Rescheduling can be done online. Apparently I’m told you can reschedule at any time which is rather impressive.

If you’re looking to reschedule, you must be signed-in to your Amazon account > Account & Lists > Your Account > Your Service Requests > Reschedule.

Will Amazon contractors haul away or dispose of my old table?

Yes. This is part of the installation and assembly service. Amazon’s assemblymen will haul away your old item. It all happens on the same day and does not need scheduling for haul-away.

What’s the Amazon home service happiness guarantee?

Amazon guarantees your satisfaction under the happiness guarantee within 90 days. If you have an issue, just call or contact Amazon customer service located in your Amazon account.

What’s the cancellation policy for the assembly service?

As long as you cancel up to 24 hours in advance, you will get your full refund. You aren’t charged until your assembly job is complete.

You can also do this in your amazon orders page where you can find Cancel appointments.

Overstock

Overstock is probably the biggest or at least the most popular online furniture retail store. They have every furniture in every category that exists. If you’re looking for something, anything at all, chances are, Overstock will have it.

Does Overstock ship their tables fully assembled?

The answer is no. Most items are not assembled and shipped in parts. In order to find out what dining tables require assembly, look for the table. Then scroll down within Product Details looking for Specifications > Assembly.

Does Overstock offer a professional assembly service after delivery?

They used to. Overstock used to be contracted with a company called Porch, which is a general all-purpose contracting company that brings together professional independent contractors.

The agreement to work together was dated back in 2018, however, Porch is no longer working directly with Overstock.

You can still receive service but it will be 2 separate transactions. One from purchasing the dining table from Overstock.com and one for scheduling assembly by Porch.

Do all dining tables have assembly services?

No. Currently, overstock doesn’t have an official assembly service. If you are looking for a third-party service that used to work with Overstock, you can try Porch.

How do I reschedule a service appointment?

Again, Porch is not the official handyman service for Overstock but it does work closely with Overstock customers. If you need to reschedule, there’s no penalty. You only pay once the job is complete.

Will Overstock contractors haul away or dispose of my old table?

Porch offers this service for an extra $89.

What’s the Overstock home service guarantee?

None. If you are simply not happy with the product or in some cases have buyer’s remorse, Overstock will accept returns within 30 days. You must pay for shipping.

However, if it’s a mistake on Overstocks part, they will accept returns and cover your shipping.

What’s the cancellation policy for the assembly service?

Porch doesn’t have a cancellation policy because you don’t pay until the work is done.

West Elm

West Elm is a fantastic company filled with the most premium style furniture and tables. They have exceptional products and services. If you want the highest quality of service, this is the company for you.

Does West Elm ship their tables fully assembled?

No, not all dining tables are assembled before delivery.

Does West Elm offer a professional assembly service after delivery?

They call it the White Glove Service. The item is delivered to your home by the appointed time, unpacked and fully assembled by the same delivery professionals. There are set fees. If the table is under $1000, then the service is $149. If the table is over $1000, then the fee is $249.

Do all dining tables have assembly services?

The White Glove Service covers all dining tables.

How do I reschedule a service appointment?

Since the delivery and assembly are made on the same day, you’ll have to call West Elm to make sure they have ample time to reschedule. Obviously an adult must be present during delivery and also for the assembler to put together the table.

Customer service will relay the message to the delivery and assembling department where they will handle the situation.

Will West Elm contractors haul away or dispose of my old table?

No.

What’s the West Elm home service guarantee?

You have a 30 day warranty after receiving the item. If the item is upholstered, it’ll be only 7 days.

What’s the cancellation policy for the assembly service?

Again, call customer service and they will perform all the necessary procedures to cancel the assembly after delivery.

One Kings Lane

If you’re into only the absolute best. One Kings Lane is the online store for you. They have some of the most premium furniture available in the most custom forms. Their services are top notch and so is their product selection.

Does One Kings Lane ship their tables fully assembled?

No, most of their dining tables come shipped and delivered in parts.

Does One Kings Lane offer a professional assembly service after delivery?

Yes, they call it the White Glove Premium Delivery Service. However, it appears in it’s fine print that this service is not available for dining room tables.

Do all dining tables have assembly services?

One thing to keep in mind, the company states that the assemblyman will perform a 15 minute “light” assembly and does not apply to dining tables.

How do I reschedule a service appointment?

Again, dining tables are not covered with assembly services.

Will One Kings Lane contractors haul away or dispose of my old table?

No. 

What’s the One Kings Lane home service guarantee?

There are no assembly services specifically for dining tables and thus no home service guarantee available.

What’s the cancellation policy for the assembly service?

There are no assembly services specifically for dining tables, and thus no home service cancellation policy is available.

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