Buying Appliances During a Pandemic - Part 2

Buying Appliances During a Pandemic

Here we are, almost two years into COVID-19 and the appliance industry is still seeing shortages and seems filled with unreliable information. Combine this with prices that are rising faster than I have seen in my 29 years here. Demand, coupled with supply and shipping constraints, have taken our industry from lead times that used to average 1-2 weeks to estimates of 6 months and have extended to over a year in some cases.

Unfortunately, this shortage has happened at a time when we are more reliant on our appliances now more than ever. With restaurants temporarily closed again and restrictions on travel and get togethers with friends and family, we have been spending more time at home working, playing, and let’s face it — living in the kitchen.

At Barber & Haskill, we have been booking stocking orders with our suppliers 6-8 months in advance since the pandemic started. This has allowed us to maintain stock in most categories in our local warehouse for customers’ immediate needs. I must admit it is not the same level of selection customers are used to pre-pandemic. For example: We currently have 8 in-stock dishwashers to choose from instead of 30.

So, what does this mean for you as a consumer?

When shopping for new appliances, please keep the following in mind:

1. Try to plan ahead. If renovating or building, please make sure to order well in advance. Do not wait until your kitchen is close to completion.
2. Try to be flexible. Our in-store sales approach is more about finding something that will work for your space and your timeline. Focus on buying the features you want from any reliable, in-stock brand.
3. We completely understand and recommend that you shop around. We have relaxed our cancellation policies and are happy for you if find your desired model in stock at another retailer. With the unreliable lead times there is no doubt that in-stock is so important in today’s economy. 
4. If you need something ASAP, look at what is in stock. Beware of shipping promises. We have found that estimated dates are more like guestimates and are very fluid.

Hopefully these tips help a little as we know how stressful it can be when an appliance breaks down - even on a good day. Contact us in-store or by phone/text at 705.526.7811 if you need assistance in purchasing a new appliance, or are in need of appliance recommendations.