Don’t Let Excitement Turn Into Damage: The Safe Way to Unpack Your Gratz Apparatus
Photo Credit: Pilgrimgym Pilates
You’ve invested thousands of dollars in your new Gratz apparatus, you took the time to choose the color of upholstery to match your studios aesthetic, you waited patiently while it was handcrafted, anticipating the day it would finally arrive. Now that it's here, excitement takes over but before you dive in, take a moment to unbox it carefully. The last thing you want is to damage your beautiful new Gratz before you even get to use it.
Once your order arrives, proper unpacking ensures your equipment is protected, easy to assemble, and ready to use for years to come.
We’ve put together a guide so you can unbox with confidence, care, and peace of mind.
General Rules for Unpacking
- Capture photos of each side of the boxes before opening.
- Do not use sharp objects such as knives, box cutters, scissors, or other blades when opening your apparatus. Every Gratz shipment now includes an upholstery-safe box opener located in the top corner of the box with the packing slip. This tool is specifically designed to safely open tape seams without risking damage to the upholstery or apparatus inside.
- When opening your box, avoid cutting down the center seam where the major flaps meet. Instead, open from the minor flaps to prevent damaging the contents.
Helpful Tools
- Included Gratz Upholstery-Safe Box Opener
Cell phone (for documenting shipment condition)
Care and attention
Optional: Gloves are recommended when removing strapping, as staples may be concealed beneath tape or strapping.
Key Elements
Step 1: Inspect Before Opening
When your shipment arrives, take a moment to do a visual inspection of the packaging:
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Look for any dents, punctures, or water marks on the exterior.
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Take clear photos of all sides of the box or crate.
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If you see visible damage, reach out to our Customer Care team before unpacking further.
Visual inspection is important because equipment can sometimes be damaged during transit, and photos allow us to file a claim and arrange a replacement for you.
Step 2: Open Your Gratz Package with Care
Removing Black Cable Strapping
Use scissors or snips to remove the black cable strapping found on Reformers, Cadillacs, and Tower Boxes.
Opening the Box
Gratz uses reinforced paper tape to securely seal each shipment. To safely open your box, locate the included upholstery-safe box opener, which can be found in the top corner of the box with your packing slip. The opener is specifically designed to open tape seams while helping prevent accidental damage to the upholstery or apparatus inside.
Please do not use knives, scissors, box cutters, or other sharp blades when opening your shipment, as they can puncture upholstery, scratch finished surfaces, or damage components concealed beneath the packaging.
When opening your box, avoid cutting down the center seam where the major flaps meet. Instead, carefully open from the minor flaps to reduce the risk of contacting the apparatus inside.
A Small Improvement for a Safer Unboxing Experience
Based on customer feedback and observations from deliveries around the world, Gratz now includes an upholstery-safe box opener in every shipment. While many customers previously used keys or pens to open packaging, the dedicated opener provides a more consistent and secure way to access your equipment while minimizing the risk of accidental damage during unboxing. It is one more step in our ongoing effort to improve the ownership experience from the moment your apparatus arrives.
Unwrapping Items
Once open, remove all protective materials by hand. Do not cut bubble wrap, instead peel tape off bubble wrap and lift gently to avoid tearing vinyl.
Take your time and check for Small Parts or Accessories tucked into bubble wrap. Working slowly and neatly now makes assembly later much easier.
Share your unboxing experience with us! Capture photos or videos as you set up your new Gratz apparatus and tag us @gratz_pilates.
Need More Details on Unboxing Your Gratz Apparatus?
Whether you’re unpacking a large apparatus or smaller accessories, the same principles apply: move slowly and handle carefully.
Reformers, Cadillacs, and Studio Wall Unit
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Cut exterior black cable strapping using scissors or snips.
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Use the included upholstery-safe box opener to open from the sides of the minor flaps — never use a knife, box cutter, or other sharp blade.
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Peel away bubble wrap by hand. Do not cut through bubble wrap or foam.
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Lift with care. Use at least two people and lift, never drag.
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Wipe clean with a soft, dry cloth before use.
Guillotine Tower
- If you’ve purchased a Guillotine Tower, you’ll need to remove the crate lid using a drill with a Phillips-#2 bit before following the general unpacking steps.
Barrels, Mats, and Chairs
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Avoid sharp tools. Use the included upholstery-safe box opener rather than knives, scissors, or box cutters.
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Open the minor flaps, not the center where the major flaps meet, to protect the upholstery.
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Peel bubble wrap by hand and place the apparatus on a clean, smooth surface.
Small Parts and Accessories
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Use the included upholstery-safe box opener to open the packaging and access contents safely. Open from the minor flaps rather than the center seam where the major flaps meet.
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Peel bubble wrap by hand — avoid blades.
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Check contents. Compare all pieces to your invoice sent by our team.
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Keep bubble wrap and box until you’ve verified every item.
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Store your accessories together for easy access.
What to Do If You Encounter an Issue
Investing in Gratz apparatus is an exciting step in your Classical Pilates journey, whether you’re equipping your studio, enhancing your personal practice, or adding a new piece to your collection. Once your order arrives, proper unpacking ensures your equipment is protected, easy to assemble, and ready to use for years to come.
This guide was created to help you unbox with confidence, care, and peace of mind. By following these steps, you’ll not only safeguard your investment but also set the stage for a smooth start with your new apparatus. From the tearing the Cutting Tape to your first workout, every detail matters and we’re here to make sure you feel supported at every step.
Remember, your Gratz equipment is built to the highest standards of craftsmanship and designed to last a lifetime when properly cared for. Take your time during the unboxing process, document each step, and reach out to our Customer Care team if you encounter any concerns.
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Sierra Rodriguez
December 13, 2025
I recieved my machine and was using the straps the very first time and one of the straps instantly snapped. I was on the lowest spring setting just doing the first 3 reps of my first workout. It is clear the iteam was defective am I able to get a replacement