I’m looking at a very expensive piece of exercise equipment (a pilates reformer with tower) and want a “name brand”, rather than a knockoff, in case I ever need to replace parts. I normally wouldn’t even consider ordering from them, but they have exactly what I want at half the price. The piece is not under the brand name, but it is identical, so I’m assuming the name brand uses the same Asian manufacturer.
For those who have ordered large items, how did the process go? Do I have to worry about getting stuck in a tariff pissing match? What are the chances of something going wrong? Is there any recourse if it does?
I would encourage you to check the Reddit Pilates community for information on the quality of the Alibaba/Chinese manufactured machines. I have been researching my own purchase for a while and from what I’ve read the price is lower because of shortcuts in the manufacturing process. Things are not always what they appear. I think with such a large purchase you want to be certain you’ll have technical support if/when you need it in addition to a warranty you can rely on!
Another place where folks are able to get exercise equipment is from Facebook Marketplace, next door and sometimes gyms when they upgrade equipment. Just a few ideas to consider as well. I’ve heard that Alibaba has a lot of cheap stuff that tends to be inexpensively made, as others have mentioned. Now with tariffs, they may no longer be as cheap either.