What to Expect When Ordering RTA Cabinets Online: Delivery, Returns & Assembly

Ordering kitchen cabinets is a major decision, and for many homeowners and contractors, ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets are an affordable and practical choice. At Cabinet Design and Outlet, we specialize in JSI cabinetry, offering both assembled and unassembled options.

If you are thinking about placing an order online, it helps to know exactly what to expect during the process, from delivery times and damage handling to returns and assembly.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before you order RTA cabinets online, including how our delivery process works, what our return policies cover, and tips for smooth assembly once your JSI cabinets arrive.

Why Choose JSI RTA Cabinets Online?

JSI cabinetry balances affordability, quality, and style. Whether you are updating a rental property, tackling a complete kitchen remodel, or working on a client project, JSI’s wide range of cabinet styles and finishes makes it easy to find something that fits your space.

Some of the main advantages of ordering JSI RTA cabinets online include:

Affordability: Since you assemble them yourself, RTA cabinets come at a lower price point compared to fully assembled units.

Quick Shipping: Ready-to-assemble cabinets typically ship within 1–2 business days, making them an excellent option for projects with tight timelines.

Design Flexibility: Choose from popular finishes such as Dover White, Essex Truffle, Amesbury Mist, and more.

Efficient Delivery: Flat-packed boxes make shipping easier and limit the risk of damage in transit.

The RTA Cabinet Delivery Process

When you order RTA cabinets online from Cabinet Design and Outlet, your order will be processed and shipped quickly. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Processing & Shipping Times

RTA Cabinets: Ship within 1–2 business days.

Assembled Cabinets: Ship in about 14 business days, as assembly requires additional time.

2. Shipping Method

Cabinets are shipped by freight carrier. Ready-to-assemble cabinets come flat-packed flat in boxes, making them easier to transport, while assembled cabinets require larger pallets.

3. Delivery Appointment

Freight carriers will call to schedule a delivery window. This is vital that someone is present to receive the order, inspect the boxes, and sign the shipment.

4. What to Expect on Delivery Day

Cabinets arrive on a pallet and are dropped curbside. You’ll need to move the boxes into your home or garage.

  • Count the boxes and match them against your order.
  • Inspect for visible damage before signing the delivery receipt. If anything looks concerning, note it with the driver.

Handling Shipping Damage

Even with careful packaging, occasional damage can occur during freight shipping. That’s why our process is designed to protect you.

If a cabinet part arrives damaged:

  • Accept the entire order. Most of the time, only a single panel or piece needs replacement.
  • Note the damage on the delivery paperwork. This ensures we can file a claim with the carrier.
  • Contact us right away. Send photos of the damaged piece, along with your order details, and we’ll ship replacement parts quickly.

Because we specialize in JSI cabinetry, we can often send replacements without long delays, helping your project stay on track.

Order Cancellations & Returns

We want to make sure you order with confidence, so our policies are straightforward:

  • Order Cancellations: Once an order has been placed, it cannot be canceled. Please double-check your design and measurements before finalizing.
  • Returns: Ready-to-assemble cabinets may be returned within 30 days if they are still in their original, unopened packaging. A 25% restocking fee applies, and customers are responsible for return freight.
  • Non-Returnable Items: Assembled cabinets, outlet items, and discontinued JSI styles are non-returnable.

If you need help making sure your order is accurate, our team offers free kitchen design services. We’ll review your layout, confirm cabinet sizes, and minimize the risk of errors before you purchase.

RTA Cabinets Assembly: What to Expect

rta cabinets assembly

One of the most compelling advantages of RTA cabinets is affordability, but that means you’ll need to plan for assembly. Fortunately, JSI cabinetry is designed to be easy to assemble. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Tools Needed: A drill, screwdriver, rubber mallet, and wood glue are typically all you need.
  • Instructions Included: Every cabinet ships with detailed assembly instructions.
  • Time Required: A base cabinet usually takes 20–30 minutes, while a wall cabinet may take about 15–20 minutes. The more you assemble, the faster it gets.
  • Durable Construction: JSI cabinets use cam locks, brackets, and dowels to create sturdy, long-lasting cabinets when appropriately assembled.

Modification & Storage Options

Note that RTA cabinets cannot be modified. They must be assembled as designed, with no adjustments to depth or sizing. If you need specialized storage, JSI offers cabinet solutions designed for functionality, such as:

  • Deeper Storage Above the Refrigerator: Cabinets above refrigerators can be ordered at 24” depth for easier access and improved storage. These require support from the adjoining wall or refrigerator panels.
  • Taller Wall Cabinets: Available in several heights to better fit your kitchen layout.

When you work with us, we’ll help you choose the right JSI cabinet sizes and options to make your kitchen more functional without needing modifications.

Tips for a Smooth RTA Cabinet Order

To make the process seamless, here are a few tips:

  • Use Our Free Kitchen Design Service – Send us your kitchen measurements, and we’ll create a detailed design layout with a complete cabinet list so you can order with confidence.
  • Plan for Delivery Day – Make sure you have space in your garage or home to store the boxes until installation.
  • Check Your Order Immediately – Don’t wait to open the boxes. The sooner you inspect, the sooner we can resolve any issues.
  • Keep Packaging Until Installation is Complete – The box labels help us track parts if replacements are needed.
  • Choose the Right Cabinet Options – For deeper or taller storage, we’ll guide you toward the best JSI cabinet choices to meet your needs.

Why Order JSI RTA Cabinets from Us?

Since 2015, Cabinet Design and Outlet has been a trusted source for JSI cabinetry. Unlike larger retailers, we focus exclusively on JSI products, which allows us to provide:

  • In-Depth Product Knowledge – We know the JSI lines inside and out.
  • Free Design Assistance – To help you order the correct cabinets the first time.
  • Outlet Options – Discounted unassembled JSI cabinets in limited sizes and finishes.
  • Responsive Service – If anything goes wrong with your order, we handle it quickly and directly.

Final Thoughts

When you order RTA cabinets online, knowing the process makes everything smoother. With JSI cabinetry, you’ll get a combination of affordability, durability, and timeless style. By understanding our shipping times, return policies, and assembly requirements, you’ll be better prepared for your project.

At Cabinet Design and Outlet, our goal is to make your cabinet purchase stress-free and straightforward. Whether you need a full kitchen design or just a few cabinets for a project, we’re here to help every step of the way. Contact us today to get started!