Beware of internet deals on HQ machines!

Even HQ Retailers are always looking to save money on the machines in their shop.  My recent trip to HQ for training allowed me to talk to many other retailers.  Several stories were shared where they or someone they knew ordered an HQ longarm quilting machine off a discount website.  (No specific names will be mentioned.)
In every instance, there were issues...

• Delivery - "...we had to meet the truck in a parking lot and transfer it to our car piece by piece because the truck would not enter the neighborhood.
• Delays in setup - "...a third party contractor showed up more than a week after it arrived for setup.  I don't think the table was ever properly balanced."
• Machine needed adjustment.  "...alignment and/or re-calibration needed to be done.  The machine must have been bounced around."

The person you buy the machine from is responsible for warranty service the first 90 days.  Meaning they should come onsite if necessary.  After 90 days, YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE for shipping or bringing the unit in for repair or maintenance.  Handi Quilter is extremely gracious and goes out of their way to resolve issues, but it is the retailer who is responsible for getting you to the right people.

Melissa would love to sell everyone a machine, but we realize that a local retailer should be involved when available.  If you are in Florida, definitely consider the level of service and training that Melissa provides.  Buying cars from strangers is never a good thing.