Balance Deposits for hot tubs and saunas on pre-order
Hot tubs and saunas often sell before the container arrives. A deposit reserves a unit from the shipment; the balance is taken when it lands and delivery is booked.
In short: Hot tub and sauna retailers usually take 10% to 30% to reserve a unit and the balance when the shipment arrives. Use a 'when the order is ready' plan with an outer limit, so a delayed container never causes an early charge.
The usual plan
Set a 20% deposit and the balance rule to 'when the order is ready', with an outer limit past the expected arrival. When the container is checked in and delivery is booked, mark the orders ready: the balances are charged and the fulfilment hold releases as each one clears.
Example: £5,000 hot tub on pre-order, 20% deposit. £1,000 at checkout, £4,000 when the container lands and delivery is booked.
Delayed containers
Shipping delays are the norm. With a 'when ready' plan the balance simply waits; if you gave customers a date, move it on the orders and each gets a fresh reminder. More in pre-order deposits on Shopify.
Large balances
Banks sometimes challenge large charges the customer did not start. Balance Due then sends a pay link, and a payment the customer makes themselves through Shopify's checkout can pass the bank's check.
Cancellations
In the UK, stock models bought online are usually covered by the 14-day right to cancel, which runs from delivery, so pre-order deposits on standard units are generally refundable if the customer cancels. This is general information, not legal advice.
Hot tubs and saunas questions
What if the container is delayed?
With a 'when ready' plan, nothing is charged until you mark the orders ready, however late the shipment is.
Can customers use buy now, pay later instead?
For in-stock units, BNPL at checkout is often the better fit. For pre-orders, a deposit and a balance on arrival keeps the customer committed without you carrying stock. See partial payments on Shopify.
Is a pre-order deposit refundable?
In the UK, deposits on standard stock models are generally refundable if the customer cancels within the 14-day cancellation period, which runs from delivery. This is general information, not legal advice.
Not on the list?
If your customers commit before the work is done, Balance Due fits. Tell us what you sell and we will suggest a plan.