Frequently Asked Questions

I placed an order. When will my items arrive?

You can check on the status of your order by clicking the “Order Status” button at the top of the page. Then, fill out two text fields and click “Continue” to receive order status information; you’ll need to enter the order number in question and the phone number or email address associated with the order. Or, if you’d prefer talking over the phone, please call customer service at 1-866-619-1776.

How much will I pay in shipping and handling?

Because of differences in size, weight and manufacturer, shipping costs vary from item to item. The easiest way to determine estimated shipping costs is to use the shipping calculator, which you’ll find on each of our product pages. Just click the “Calculate Shipping” button, enter the quantity and the five-digit zip code of your delivery address and click “Calculate.” Your estimated shipping costs for the item(s) will pop up within the box. You don’t need to create an account or sign in to an existing account to use the shipping calculator, so it’s an easy guide while you’re browsing our product selection.

If you’re ordering several larger items with freight shipping, you may notice a message below the “Calculate” button in bold red text that reads, “Estimated Shipping & Handling Cost: Please call 1-800-260-2776.” Sometimes freight companies have discounts or additional fees for certain items ordered in large quantities. This process can be complicated, so it’s best that you work with us over the phone to get the lowest price on these large-quantity orders.

Remember, the shipping costs shown on the calculator are estimated costs that we offer as a ballpark figure to help with your budget planning. Some large items may come with other costs like assistance with unloading, etc.

Your final shipping costs are shown during the “Shipping Review” step of the checkout process.

What is the difference between UPS and freight shipping methods?

Smaller, lighter items ship via UPS. Items that are large, bulky or extremely heavy usually arrive by freight delivery and are carried on a semi-trailer truck. Freight deliveries are delivered only as far as the back of the truck, which means the driver won’t carry your goods into the building. If you don’t have a loading dock, you can arrange for the driver to move the items inside for an additional charge.

We will ask you a few questions in the “Shipping Info” section of our checkout process that will help us determine exact shipping costs. Your total shipping charges are displayed on the “Shipping Review” section of the checkout process. Also, you can easily review the “Specifications” tab of each item’s product page, which displays a “Shipping Method” field that tells you whether it ships via UPS or freight.

How can I lower my shipping and handling costs?

You will find that some items on our site ship for free. Look for the logo on the product pages for these items. Keep in mind that the per-unit cost of shipping almost always decreases as your order quantity increases. Plus, you generally get a better overall rate by ordering as many items as possible from the same manufacturer.

Also, you can avoid extra charges for large orders by shipping directly to freight docks in non-residential areas; this is often the most economical way to deliver freight shipments.

Can I have my items shipped to a location outside of the U.S.?

Yes. Call 1-800-260-2776 to speak with a member of our friendly sales team, and arrange for delivery outside of the U.S.

The items I just received are damaged and/or missing parts. What should I do?

Please locate your order number and call customer service at 1-866-619-1776. This must be done within two weeks of receiving your order.

Can I return an item?

Yes. In fact, most items we sell are returnable. Make sure to inspect your order for damage and accuracy as soon as it arrives. If you see a problem, refuse the delivery and call customer service at 1-866-619-1776. However, there are a few types of items we sell that have additional return restrictions. For a full list of those items and helpful tips during this process, please see our returns policy.

How do I place an online order?

Ordering online is simple. Just follow these steps:

1. Once you find the product you want, enter the quantity of the item you want to purchase in the “Choose a quantity” text field under the “To Order” box.

2. Then, see if there are any options to choose for this item. For instance, sometimes there are different color choices or product styles that need to be selected before you can continue the ordering process.

3. Click the green "Add to Cart" button. You'll see the “Recently Added” item(s) displayed in your shopping cart, which holds your purchases until you're ready to check out.

The shopping cart displays the item(s) you're ordering, the options you've chosen and the quantities you've indicated. These can be changed at any time. (Please note: If you change the quantity, click on the "Update Cart" button to see the adjusted price.) You can continue shopping by clicking on "Back to Shopping." Or, to check out and finish your order, click "Check Out."

First-time buyers will need to enter shipping and billing information. If you're a returning customer and are signed in to your account, your shipping information will be displayed. At this time, you can edit the information if your address has changed or you would like to add another address. Click the “Continue” button and enter payment information. Once you've filled in your shipping and payment information, review your selections and click the "Place Order" button. Now your order’s being processed!

You'll receive an email receipt within minutes; you should print out or write down the order confirmation number. New customers can create an account by simply entering a password on the order confirmation page and clicking the “Continue” button. Our system will retain your information so you don’t have to enter it again the next time you order. Of course, you don’t have to create an account to order, but it does make the process a little easier for you during future orders.

How do I use a purchase order to pay for my items?

We are happy to accept your purchase order for payment. Simply select the “Purchase Order” payment option, fill out the “Purchase Order Number” text field and fax a copy of your purchase order to 1-800-494-1036 or mail it to us at:

School Outfitters
3736 Regent Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45212-3724

Once we receive your purchase order, your order will be processed. We'll call you during this time.

How do I cancel an order?

Please locate your order number and call customer service at 1-866-619-1776 immediately.

We understand that you may decide you don’t want something after placing your order. It is important that you call us as soon as possible to cancel an order because we work to process and ship your items quickly.

Once an item has shipped, you are responsible for all shipping costs (shipping to you and back to the manufacturer). Also, many of the items we sell are made to order and the manufacturer may charge you a restocking fee even if the order hasn’t shipped. We want to help you avoid these charges.

I’m placing an order for a tax-exempt organization. How do I ensure that my items won’t be taxed?

While placing an online order, you will be prompted to indicate whether or not you are tax exempt at the delivery address provided. If you indicate that you are tax exempt, you must fax a copy of your tax exemption certificate to 1-800-494-1036 within two business days to avoid being charged tax.

Do you rent products to customers?

No. We do not rent any products to customers. All of the products listed on our website are new and unused.

I need additional information about these products. What can I do?

Helpful information is available throughout our website. Many of the category pages have buying guides that offer a full page of facts and suggestions, which ensure you can make more informed decisions about the products that are right for you.

We also provide detailed information on our product pages in the “Specifications” tab for each item on our site. This information (product materials, measurements, shipping method, etc.) can help you compare similar items and find the perfect model and style for your needs.

How long are my items under warranty?

All of the products we sell carry their manufacturer's standard warranty. Most of them are noted in the “Specifications” tab on the product pages. These range from one year warranties to lifetime warranties. If you do not see a mention of the warranty but would like to know the length of warranty coverage, please contact us at 1-800-260-2776. We will be happy to explain the warranty and even send you a copy before you submit your order.

Do you have a sale section or run promotions?

Yes, in addition to our low prices, we run promotions throughout the year. Click on the bold links in the “Categories” left navigation bar for more information.

We are happy to offer you school furniture and other products at some of the lowest prices available. Your price, the manufacturer’s price and your savings are listed on each product page; many items are available for up to 60% off the manufacturer’s suggested retail price.

Do you have a catalog?

No, we do not print a catalog, but we offer thousands of products on our website. We believe that our site is actually easier to shop than a catalog. You can just click a link in the “Categories” left navigation bar, search for a specific product in our “Search” box or browse by manufacturer with the “Brands” drop-down menu.

How can I be sure the information I provide is secure?

We use 128-bit Secure Sockets Layering (SSL) to encrypt your credit card information before it goes out over the Internet. SSL technology is the industry standard for secure online transactions. SSL makes ordering from the School Outfitters website as safe as shopping online with any other leading retailer or ordering by phone with your credit card. For more information about how we collect and protect your information, please see our privacy policy.

How do I contact School Outfitters?

There are several ways to contact us. Whether it’s by phone, chat, email or fax, we’re happy to help. Please find us at the following (available Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Eastern):

•   Call Sales – 1-800-260-2776

•   Chat with Sales – Click here to chat online now

•   Email Sales – sales@schooloutfitters.com

•   Fax Sales – 1-800-494-1036

•   Call Customer Service – 1-866-619-1776

•   Email Customer Service – customerservice@schooloutfitters.com

•   Report a Problem/General Questions – helpdesk@schooloutfitters.com