Things To Know When Ordering Wheelchairs Online

Let’s be real: clicking "Add to Cart" is infinitely more appealing than navigating the labyrinth of insurance approvals and Durable Medical Equipment (DME) providers. Sometimes you need a backup rig, or maybe you’re paying out of pocket to get something that doesn't look like it belongs in a hospital hallway.

Ordering online gives you freedom and options, but it also comes with unique risks. Before you drop your credit card info, here are a few things to know when ordering your wheelchair online.

1. Seat Width vs. Total Width

This is the rookie mistake that causes the most headaches. When you see a measurement listed as 18 inches, that usually refers to the seat width—the distance between the armrests (or side guards). It is not the chair's total width.

If you have narrow doorways in your house, you need to hunt down the "overall width" spec. Depending on the camber (the angle of the wheels) and the handrims, your chair could be 8 to 10 inches wider than the seat.

Pro Tip

Measure your hips while sitting on a flat surface. Your seat width should generally match that measurement closely. Too wide, and you’ll ruin your shoulders reaching for the wheels. Too narrow, and you’re risking pressure issues on your hips.

2. Transport Weight vs. Product Weight

Marketing teams love to play games with weight numbers. You might see a chair advertised as "Ultra-Lightweight! Only 15 lbs!"

Take a closer look at the fine print. That is often the transport weight, which means the weight of the frame after you remove the rear wheels, the cushion, the armrests, and the leg riggings.

Transport weight matters when you’re loading and unloading your wheelchair into vehicles or when traveling. A 15 lb frame can easily turn into a 35 lb lift once you add decent wheels and a cushion.

3. The Return Policy Reality Check

Custom chairs are almost like tailored suits; once they cut the metal, it's yours.

Most reputable online retailers have strict return policies for mobility equipment. Off-the-shelf chairs usually carry a restocking fee ranging from 15 to 30 percent. You also typically have to pay for return shipping, which, for a freight item, isn't cheap.

Before you buy, read the return policy twice. If the chair is listed as custom or made-to-order, assume it is non-returnable unless it arrives damaged.

Measure Twice, Order Once

With this additional knowledge, you can buy your wheelchair online and save money while still purchasing reliable equipment. Just remember that your body mechanics are unique. A chair that works for a reviewer with a T10 injury might be terrible for someone with a C6 injury, so consult with your medical team to ensure the wheelchair fits your needs.

As your go-to wheelchair suppliers, DME Hub tries our best to help all wheelchair users find exactly what they need. With 25 years of experience, we have helped many people improve their mobility aids, and we can do the same for you, too. Browse our catalog to find a variety of wheelchair add-ons or get started on a custom build for the perfect chair for you.