So I bought a kiln… Now what?
A guide to The Ceramic Shop’s kiln purchasing policies and procedures
How long will it take to get my kiln?
All kiln manufacturers make kilns to order, which means they will make your kiln specifically for you, to your specifications. This means if you have ordered a kiln online, you will be charged at that time, although your kiln will take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks to build. Please note that most kilns are constructed closer to the 4-week time table; please take your studio needs into consideration when preparing to buy a kiln! Because lead times vary by manufacturer, don't hesitate to give us a call for a more accurate estimate.
Occasionally, we do have smaller test kilns and sometimes even larger models in stock – in those cases, we can ship directly to you as soon as possible. When your kiln is complete and has been shipped, The Ceramic Shop or the kiln manufacturer will contact you. Please be ready for it on arrival! If you have ordered a kiln and haven’t heard from us, that doesn’t mean that we haven’t processed your order. Because the turn-around can take up to 4 weeks, we do our best to process all kiln orders within 24 hours of receiving them.
What do I need for the arrival of my kiln?
Well, you need to be available most importantly. Either The Ceramic Shop or your kiln manufacturer will be in touch with you once your kiln has shipped. Keep in mind that a 7-cubic-ft kiln packaged on a skid with a furniture kit can weigh up to 500 lbs! We suggest that you have a box cutter, drill, hammer, and at least one other person to help unbox and set up your kiln. Please keep in mind that it is NOT the responsibility of the trucking company to do anything but deliver the kiln to your address at the curb. This means that if you are having a kiln shipped to an address that does NOT have a loading dock, you need to make sure to order a lift gate service, which transports the freight from the truck to ground level. You can order this service through us here at The Ceramic Shop.
What should I do when my kiln arrives?
It is in your best interest to thoroughly inspect the kiln for damage immediately. This means completely removing all packaging and inspecting the inside of the kiln, as well.
What if my kiln arrives and it is damaged?
UPON DELIVERY: All of our kiln manufacturers, including Skutt, Paragon, L&L, etc., pack their merchandise so that it will, ideally, arrive at its destination undamaged. However, accidents happen and you should be prepared to inspect the freight for damage right away – ideally, while the carrier is still present. If the freight – your kiln – appears to be damaged, you DO have the option of refusing delivery. Check to make sure that all of your items have been delivered, and note on the carrier’s delivery receipt any shortages. If any damage appears on the OUTSIDE of the package, have the driver inspect the packages and note on the carrier’s delivery receipt the damage. Immediately after delivery, open ALL cartons to determine if there is any concealed damage. If this is the case, retain all damaged items with their packaging.
Call the freight carrier to report damage and request an inspection within 24 hours. If a call is made later than 36 hours, the carrier can deny your claim.
Confirm your call in writing by registered mail and keep a copy for your records.
UPON CARRIER INSPECTION: Retain your damaged merchandise even though the inspection has been completed. Damaged items cannot be used or disposed of without written permission from the carrier. Do not return damaged items to the shipper without written authorization from the supplier (in this case, your kiln manufacturer). If the damaged items are picked up by the carrier for salvage, secure the receipt.
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR FILING A FREIGHT CLAIM:
Your carrier's loss or damage claim form
Shipper's original invoice or copy
Original bill of lading
Original paid freight bill
Carrier's inspection report
Repair invoice
REMEMBER: It is the customer’s responsibility to file any claim. Here at The Ceramic Shop, we are willing to help you in collecting claims but this does not make us responsible for collection of claims or replacement of materials damaged or lost. We apologize, but we cannot make freight claims for customers.
I received my kiln a month ago and haven’t used it yet. When I opened it for the first time, I noticed that some of the bricks are cracked. I want a new one!
In the event that you discover possible damage well after delivery, The Ceramic Shop and your kiln manufacturer are no longer liable. Please be sure to thoroughly inspect your kiln as soon as you receive it. Carriers generally only extend a maximum time frame of 36 hours in which to file a claim following delivery of your kiln.
"How To Choose An Electric Kiln" supplied by Paragon.