Standard delivery is not enough if you need to send high-value, delicate items to your customers. If your business sells expensive furniture or innovative technology, customers will expect a shipping experience matching the quality of your products. This is where white glove delivery steps in.
White glove logistics offers a premium, hands-on approach to treating every item carefully. From specialised handling and installation to exceptional customer service, white glove delivery provides a level of service that improves the entire customer experience. With this article, we will explore what makes white glove delivery a game-changer.
What is a white glove service?
A white glove service refers to a premium, hands-on approach to logistics and delivery that goes beyond the standard offering. It provides attention to detail at every stage of the process, from handling to last-mile delivery.
Whether transporting delicate, high-value or oversized items, a white glove service ensures that the goods are delivered safely. Unpacking, set-up and removal of packaging materials are usually included.
Where does the term 'white glove' come from?
The term 'white glove' originates from the concept of wearing white gloves as a symbol of cleanliness and precision. This symbolises the special care taken during the handling of a delivery.
What does a white glove service include?
A white glove delivery service includes the following features, which makes it different from a standard delivery:
Specialised handling
White glove delivery teams are trained to handle fragile or expensive items with extra care. They ensure delicate items are transported safely, minimising risk with careful loading, climate control and secure transport.
Delivery to a specific location in the customer's property
Instead of leaving packages at the doorstep, white glove delivery services place items directly in the room or area specified by the customer. Whether the delivery needs to be carried upstairs or taken up in a lift, the courier ensures the item is placed where it’s needed.
Installation and assembly
White glove delivery includes assembly or installation, ensuring items like furniture, electronics, or appliances are set up and ready to use. This removes the hassle of following instructions or using tools, as professionals handle the process.
Removal of packaging
Once the delivery and setup are complete, the courier clears away all packaging materials. This not only saves time, but also ensures proper disposal and recycling of materials to save the customer time and be more environmentally friendly.
Industries that benefit from white glove delivery
There are a range of different industries and products that benefit from a white glove delivery service.
Furniture and home goods
Furniture companies use white glove delivery for handling, assembly, and installation of items. This ensures that furniture is delivered without damage, set up in the customer’s home, and all packaging is taken away.
Medical and healthcare
White glove services are essential for transporting delicate medical equipment. Precise care ensures that these items arrive safely and are properly installed in medical facilities.
Luxury retail
High-end fashion brands, jewellery companies, and luxury goods retailers benefit from white glove logistics. This helps maintain the quality and integrity of expensive products throughout delivery.
Art and antiques
Some artwork can be priceless, and need the highest standard of protection possible when being transported. White glove logistics provide the utmost care when handling and transporting valuable artworks, sculptures, or antiques. This ensures these items arrive at their destination in pristine condition.
Demo management
Businesses that deal with high-value demo units, such as tech products or machinery, require reliable white glove services to ensure their units are transported, set up, and functional at trade shows or client sites.
Integrated server logistics
Data centres and IT firms use white glove logistics for the delivery and installation of servers and other critical infrastructure. Precise handling helps ensure system integrity and uptime during transfers or installations.
Technology and electronics
White glove delivery ensures safe shipping and installation of computers and other electronic devices. This helps to avoid any disruptions or damages during delivery.
Reverse logistics
When products are returned, particularly expensive or fragile items, a white glove service can offer careful pick-up, reprocessing, and restocking.
Challenges of white glove delivery (and how to overcome them)
When using white glove delivery services, some challenges face businesses. However, these challenges can be overcome.
Higher costs
One of the main challenges with white glove delivery is the higher cost compared to standard services. The need for specialised handling, equipment, and personnel often drives up expenses, which can be a barrier for some businesses.
Overcome higher costs
To offset higher costs, businesses can integrate white glove services into their pricing model. Offering tiered delivery options can help customers choose the level of service they require. This means that a white glove delivery service is available for those who value it.
Complex scheduling
White glove services require precise scheduling to ensure smooth delivery, especially when dealing with fragile and large items. Coordinating between the customer, delivery teams, and any third-party technicians can become a logistical headache.
Overcome complex scheduling
Use advanced scheduling tools and communication platforms that allow real-time updates and direct communication between all parties. Automated systems that can offer delivery windows and route planning can reduce the challenge of dealing with multiple schedules.
Skilled labour shortage
White glove delivery requires a workforce trained in handling, assembling, and installing items. Finding and retaining workers with the right skills can be difficult, especially in regions with high demand for these services.
Overcome a skilled labour shortage
Invest in continuous training and development programs for delivery personnel. Partnering with a third-party logistics company that specialises in white glove delivery can help fill a skill gap.
Limited coverage
White glove services are often limited in coverage, especially in rural or hard-to-reach areas. This can lead to gaps in service availability, causing frustration for customers in certain regions.
Overcome limited coverage
Partner with a logistics company that offers national or international coverage. This allows you to offer white glove delivery even in remote locations, ensuring a consistent experience for all customers.
Customer expectations management
Customers who opt for white glove delivery have high expectations regarding the level of service they will receive. Meeting these expectations can be challenging, and any issues may impact customer satisfaction.
Overcome customer expectation issues
Set clear expectations from the start by detailing what is included in the service. Provide real-time tracking, communicate proactively, and offer post-delivery support to ensure customer satisfaction. A dedicated customer service team can also help resolve any issues quickly and effectively.
Partnering with a white glove provider
Choosing the right white glove logistics provider can transform how your business handles high-value deliveries. SEKO Logistics' final mile service ensures every delivery is handled with ultimate care and precision. With over 60 locations in Europe and North America, SEKO’s white glove solutions are ready to help you grow your business.
From medical devices and high-tech equipment to retail displays and heavyweight products, SEKO’s white glove services guarantee safe and efficient delivery.
In addition, SEKO’s 24/7 customer service means you have complete visibility of the service and peace of mind.
SEKO’s specialist white glove facility
SEKO’s white glove facility in Farnborough provides a vast network of White Glove ‘smarthands’ and ‘safehands’ technicians and installers. Each specialist is uniquely qualified to move medical and high-tech equipment on a global scale, even into countries where SEKO’s clients are yet to have a fiscal presence.
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Get in touch with SEKO
SEKO has over 30 years of experience in international shipping, especially with white glove delivery services.
Explore more about SEKO’s white glove service to learn more about how SEKO can help you, or if you’re ready to get in touch, contact the SEKO team today.
White glove FAQs
Do white glove services include product setup and testing?
Yes, many white glove services include assembly, installation, and testing of products such as electronics, appliances, or medical devices. This ensures that the items are operational before the delivery team leaves.
What kind of tracking and support do white glove services offer?
White glove providers offer real-time tracking and 24/7 customer service to ensure full visibility of shipments. This allows businesses to monitor their items throughout the process.
How much does white glove delivery cost?
The cost of white glove delivery depends on various factors including the size, weight, and fragility of the item, the distance of delivery, and any additional services like installation or setup.
When should white glove logistics be used?
White glove logistics should be used when the items being shipped are fragile, expensive, or require special handling. It’s also ideal when installation, setup, or specific placement within a location is required.
