Estimated lead time for new orders: 

• 3 months for all apparatus: Reformers, Cadillacs, Towers, Chairs, Barrels, and Mats 
• 3 months for upholstered Parts and Accessories.
• 10 days or less for non-upholstered Parts and Accessories   
• Available Now collection ships within 7 days.
  

All Gratz equipment is made to order, even if you select colors such as black.

Orders ship once all items in the order are ready. 

Note - Lead times do not include shipping time as this varies by location and shipping method selected. 

Out of respect and fairness to all our customers we process orders in the order they are received. 

If you have a hard deadline or narrow window for accepting delivery, please advise our customer care team when they email you to finalize your order (after you’ve submitted your order online).  

We apologize if your order is not received as expected. Contact us at customercare@gratzpilates.com regarding the error and we’ll work to rectify the issue ASAP. Please include your order number, detailed description of the error, and pictures of the item if available.

Yes. Orders ship once all items in the order are manufactured and ready to ship out.

If you forgot a part or accessory when placing an order, you should simply place a new order for these additional items. This will get the item to you as fast as possible and not delay your current order. 

If you forgot a larger apparatus, you should contact customercare@gratzpilates.com with your order details. Our team will review your request and advise on what updates can be accommodated based on timing and production status.

The timeline for receiving your shipping quote depends on the shipping method you selected in checkout. 

• If you selected Air Freight, you will receive your estimate within five business days.  
• If you selected Air Freight White Glove, Air Freight Threshold, or Ocean Freight, please allow up to two weeks to receive your estimate. 

Your shipping options differ depending on whether your order is domestic (within the USA) or international.

Domestic Orders (USA)

• Standard (Curbside)
• FedEx Delivery (smaller apparatus and accessories)
• White Glove (Basic)
• White Glove + Stairs

Canada

• Standard (Curbside)
• International FedEx
• White Glove (Basic)
• White Glove + Stairs

Gratz handles customs clearance and provides door-to-door delivery.

European Union, United Kingdom & South Korea

• Air Freight Curbside
• International FedEx
• Air Freight White Glove
• White Glove + Stairs
• Ocean Freight (Large Orders)

Gratz handles customs clearance and provides door-to-door delivery.

Rest of World International Orders

• Air Freight Standard (Airport Pickup)
• Air Freight Curbside
• International FedEx
• Air Freight White Glove
• White Glove + Stairs
• Ocean Freight (Large Orders)

Pick Up On-Site (Philadelphia, USA)

On-site pickup from our Fulfillment Center in Philadelphia is available upon request.

• A $250 fee applies, plus 8% Philadelphia city tax on all pickup orders.
• This option does not shorten manufacturing time.
• Your Gratz Pilates team member will provide the invoice and scheduling details.

You can read more about all your options here.  

Gratz standards for delivery accuracy, timeline communication, and order coordination are outlined in our Gratz Pilates Delivery Commitment.

Gratz Pilates proudly ships worldwide, ensuring our equipment reaches studios and practitioners across the globe. However, due to shipping restrictions we are unable to deliver to all locations. We ship everywhere except the locations listed below. 

If your desired shipping destination is listed below, please contact us and we will help you find the nearest available shipping location. 

Gratz ships everywhere except these countries and territories 

• Afghanistan 
• Belarus 
• Crimea 
• Donetsk 
• Burma/ Myanmur 
• Central African Republic 
• Cuba 
• Democratic of the Congo  
• Eritrea 
• Haiti 
• Kherson 
• Luhansk 
• Iran 
• Iraq 
• North Korea 
• Russia 
• Somalia 
• South Sudan 
• Sudan 
• Syria 
• Venezuela  
• Zaporizhzhia 

Taxes and Duties 

As a reminder, any order shipped to a destination outside of the United States are likely subject to import taxes or duties. Duties and taxes are determined by the customs agency within the destination country.    

Payment of any duties and taxes is the responsibility of the recipient and is entirely separate from your Gratz Pilates order. These fees are collected by the local customs agency at the time of delivery. More information can be obtained by contacting your local customs office. 

For orders over $500, a signature will be required to confirm receipt and ensure secure delivery of your equipment.

For orders under $500, the shipment will be dropped off without a signature.

Global shipping conditions have become increasingly unpredictable. Ocean carriers are frequently canceling sailings, consolidating containers, and rerouting shipments due to fluctuating demand, tariff changes, and port congestion. 

These practices often result in significant delays, unstable pricing, and a higher likelihood of damage.  

To provide our customers with a faster, more consistent, and better-protected experience, we recommend Air Freight. Read more about Gratz additional shipping methods here: Shipping, Handling, and Pick Up for Gratz Pilates Products

Individual apparatus orders that contain a Wunda Chair, Pedi Pole, Spine Corrector, Mini Barrel, Low Folding Mat, or Small Parts and Accessories ship via FedEx Parcel Delivery. 

For orders over $500, a signature will be required to confirm receipt and ensure secure delivery of your equipment.

For orders under $500, the shipment will be dropped off without a signature, similar to standard Amazon deliveries. 

We cannot guarantee a certain date upon submission of your order, but we are happy to work with you to try to hit a specific date within our lead times. When our customer care team emails you to finalize your order after you’ve placed it via the website, let them know your unique needs.

European Union and United Kingdom Customers

Gratz has officially registered as a EU and UK Entity, making the ordering process simpler for customers across the EU and UK.

If you have an activated business VAT number:

• You will not be charged VAT.
• Your order will be delivered directly to your door (not via airport or seaport).
• Duty charges will still apply and will be clearly listed on your Gratz invoice.
• Gratz will handle customs clearance on your behalf for a smoother delivery experience.

If you do not have an activated business VAT number:

• VAT and duty will be included on your Gratz invoice.
• You’ll see the full, transparent cost upfront, with no additional payments upon delivery.
• Your order will be delivered directly to your door, with customs managed by Gratz.

Canadian Customers  

Gratz has registered as a Canadian Entity, making the ordering process simpler for you.

• Applicable Canadian sales taxes (GST/HST/PST), along with any import duties if required, will be included on your Gratz invoice.
• You’ll see the full, transparent cost upfront, with no additional payments upon delivery. 
• Your order will be delivered directly to your door (not via airport). 
• Gratz will handle customs clearance on your behalf for a smoother delivery experience.

South Korean Customers 

Gratz has officially registered as a Korean Entity, making the ordering process simpler for you. 

• VAT and duty will be included on your Gratz invoice. 
• You’ll see the full, transparent cost upfront, with no additional payments upon delivery. 
• Your order will be delivered directly to your door (not via airport or seaport). 
• Gratz will handle customs clearance on your behalf for a smoother delivery experience.

International Customers

For all other international regions, including Asia, the Middle East, Australia, and South America:

• Orders may be subject to import taxes or duties determined by your local customs agency.
• Payment of these fees is the responsibility of the recipient and separate from your Gratz Pilates order.
• These charges are typically collected by the local customs agency at the time of delivery.
• For specific details, please contact your local customs office.

VAT Number vs EORI Number

A VAT number is used to identify businesses for tax purposes within the European Union and United Kingdom.

Gratz requires your activated business VAT number to process orders without charging VAT and to correctly apply VAT exemptions.

An EORI number is used by importers or exporters to track customs activities within the EU.

While some businesses may have an EORI number for importing goods, Gratz only needs your activated business VAT number to complete your order and manage VAT exemptions.

Difference Between VAT and Duty

VAT (Value Added Tax) 

• A sales tax applied to the purchase of goods. If VAT applies to your order, it will be shown clearly on your invoice. 

Duty

• A government import charge applied when goods cross an international border. Duty is related to importing, not the sale itself. 

1. Photograph any damaged boxes before opening.
This is essential for possible insurance claims. 

2. Do not use knives or box cutters

Use the upholstery-safe box cutter included in the top corner of your box, under the packing slip. Gratz includes this with every shipment so your apparatus and upholstery arrive in perfect condition. Standard knives and box cutters can cause serious damage, please don't use them.


3. Unwrap carefully. 

Take your time with each component—don’t rush the unboxing. Handle with care to ensure nothing gets damaged or lost. 

4. Look for small parts wrapped in paper. 

Parts and hardware can be easy to miss and are often discarded by mistake. 

We’re excited for you to enjoy your new Gratz equipment and to be part of bringing the joy of classical Pilates to the world. If you have any other questions regarding unpacking, please email customercare@gratzpilates.com.

Each Gratz apparatus is built and tested before it ships from our factory. After a full quality check, we carefully take apart certain parts such as the Cadillac canopy, to ensure everything ships more securely and with less risk of damage. 

When your order arrives, here’s what you can expect for setup: 

No Assembly Needed 

• Mini Barrel 

• Spine Corrector 

• Pilates Mats 

• Small Arm Chair 

• Most Small Accessories and Small Parts 

Minor Adjustments Needed

Push Up Devices

Push Up Devices can become misaligned during transit.  

Realign them in three easy steps: 
1) Loosen the nuts on each side of the handle with a wrench
2) Put the device on the floor, align the device base, and stand on it to keep the device in place
3) Tighten the nuts on the side of the handle

Least Assembly Needed 

Assembly can take between 10-15 minutes; hand tools may be needed. 

Reformer 

• Reformer Assembly Guide 

Ladder Barrel 

• Ladder Barrel Assembly Guide 

Pedi Pole 

• Pedi Pole Assembly Guide 

Wunda Chair 

• Wunda Chair Assembly Guide 

Combination Electric / Wunda Chair 

• Combination Electric / Wunda Chair Assembly Guide 

Electric Chair 

Most Assembly Needed 

Pilates Cadillacs 

• Require assembly with hand tools; typically, under 1 hour, a power screwdriver can help 
• Cadillac Assembly Guide 
• Instant Full Cadillac Conversion Assembly Guide 
• Instant Half Cadillac Conversion Assembly Guide 

Guillotines 

• Due to the size and weight of the Guillotine Tower, Gratz strongly recommends hiring a professional contractor for the assembly. If you choose to assemble it yourself, please ensure 2-4 people are available to complete the setup safely. 

Studio Wall Unit 

• Due to the unique nature of the Studio Wall Unit, Gratz strongly recommends hiring a professional contractor to review your space before installation. 
• Studio Wall Unit Assembly Guide 

Most Gratz equipment requires little or no re-assembly, and setup is designed to be straightforward. If you have further questions, reach out to customercare@gratzpilates.com.  

Wire transfers are Gratz Pilates' preferred method of payment. Wire instructions can be found here. For any questions don’t hesitate to reach out to our customer care team. 

Domestic Orders (U.S.)

Payment Methods

We offer several secure payment options at checkout:

• Credit Cards: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover are accepted.
• Apple Pay & Google Pay: Fast and secure checkout options available on supported devices and browsers.
• HSA/FSA: In some cases, Pilates equipment may qualify as an eligible expense when used for rehabilitation, injury prevention, or therapeutic purposes. We recommend confirming eligibility with your provider.
• Affirm: Gratz partners with Affirm to offer flexible financing options at checkout.

This allows customers to:

1. Split purchases into monthly payments
2. Select from different term lengths depending on order value
3. See their payment schedule upfront with no hidden fees
4. Approval is subject to eligibility, and rates may vary based on credit profile.

Gratz is partnered with Affirm to bring consumer financing options. Read more about Affirms Consumer Terms and Conditions. 

Payment & Financing

Payment options vary based on order total, with financing available for qualifying purchases.

Orders under $20,000:

• Payment in full at checkout
• Financing through available options such as Affirm

Orders $20,000 and above:

• 50% deposit at checkout
• Remaining balance due 45 days after the initial payment

International Orders

Payment Methods

Available payment methods for international orders include:

• Wire Transfers: Wire transfer instructions are available upon request. Customers are responsible for any fees charged by their bank or intermediary institutions.
• Credit Cards: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover are accepted.
• Apple Pay & Google Pay: Fast and secure checkout options available on supported devices and browsers.

Payment & Financing

Payment structure for international orders is based on order value.

Orders $5,000 and above:

• 50% deposit at checkout
• Remaining balance due 45 days after the initial payment

Orders below $5,000:

• Payment in full at checkout

How do I clean the upholstery on my apparatus? 

A 1:10 solution (1 part household liquid dish soap and 10 parts water) is the ideal upholstery cleaner, effective and gentle. Spray, wipe, and dry upholstery thoroughly after each use.  

Upholstery should not be saturated or soaked. Do not use Tea Tree, Peppermint, or similar on upholstery as this will dry out the upholstery and cause it to crack and split. 

Find more tips here for cleaning wheels, tracks, springs, and more. 

Like any furniture or upholstered items, it is best to keep exposure to direct sunlight, aerosols of any type (cleaners or personal products), and sunscreens to a minimum. It is also a good idea to keep zippers, metal accents on clothing, and anything sharp away from upholstery. 

We recommend making your students aware of these “no-no’s”, especially sunscreens, so they can be part of the solution. 

Darker upholstery colors look great, showing less wear and tear for longer. 

Lighter color upholstery like Bone, Adobe White, and Alabaster shows natural irregularities and variability in texture and color.  

Yes, apparatus can be reupholstered. Gratz Upholstery collection offers pre-stitched fabric for Pilates Reformers, Classic Cadillacs, Instant Cadillac Conversions, Chairs, Mats, and Small Parts.

Upholstery can be ordered directly through Gratz website: Pilates Upholstery.

For everyday cleaning, we recommend using mild soap and water. If surface marks remain after cleaning, this baking soda method can be used as a more conservative first step before using more abrasive cleaning methods.

What You'll Need

• Household baking soda
• Water
• A small container for mixing
• Non-abrasive scouring pad or sponge
• Paper towels or a soft cotton rag
• Rubber gloves

Instructions

1. Mix the paste.

In a small disposable container, combine baking soda with a small amount of water. Add the water gradually until you achieve a thick, peanut butter-like consistency.

2. Test first.

Before treating the visible area, test the paste on a small, inconspicuous section of the aluminum frame to ensure you are satisfied with the results.

3. Apply the paste.

Using a non-abrasive scouring pad or sponge, gently work the paste onto the affected area using light pressure until the surface marks or mild oxidation begin to lift.

Note: Baking soda is a mild abrasive. You may notice a slight change in the aluminum's appearance after cleaning, which is normal.

4. Wipe clean.

Remove any remaining paste with a damp paper towel or soft cotton rag, then dry the surface thoroughly.

Every Gratz frame is thoroughly checked before shipping. For example, Cadillacs and Reformers are placed on a precision ground inspection table with a tolerance of +/- 0.015" over the length of a Reformer or Cadillac frame. This ensures that the welded frame meets strict flatness requirements. 

However, nearly all residential and commercial floors are uneven. It is common for floors to vary by ⅛" to ¼" across just a few feet. This is within acceptable construction specs and mostly undetectable by humans by sight or feel. Because of this, minor rocking or small gaps are often caused by normal floor variation, not the apparatus. 

But not to worry, in most cases a simple felt or rubber pad applied to the foot of the Cadillac or Reformer leg can absorb this small difference and balance the reformer. Added benefit of the pads are that they protect your floor and they make sliding the Reformers easier (felt pads) or ensure the reformer does not slide (rubber pads). We have found that any brand of pad works well.  The other option is to reposition the Reformer until you find four spots on the floor where the feet rest flat.  

For rips or tears in vinyl upholstery, we recommend using a peel-and-stick vinyl repair patch, such as Tear-Aid Type B for vinyl and vinyl-coated materials.

These patches are designed to:

• Cover rips or punctures
  
• Help prevent tearing from spreading further
  
• Adhere without sewing or heat
  

The patches are clear, pressure-sensitive, and easy to apply, making them a practical way to protect upholstery and limit further damage.

Please note that repair patches are intended as a protective solution and do not replace professional upholstery repair if damage is extensive.

If your upholstery requires replacement or professional repair, you can explore Gratz upholstery options here.

Light surface rust can occasionally develop on metal components due to humidity or environmental exposure. In many cases, it can be safely addressed with the proper method.

For light surface rust, we recommend using a Scotch-Brite pad.

• No oils, cleaners, or liquids are needed
  
• Gently rub the affected area in a circular motion around the pole

If rust persists, please reach out to customercare@gratzpilates.com for further guidance.

Old Gratz Springs should be recycled. As metal components, they can be taken to a local recycling facility. Please follow your area’s recycling guidelines.

We put love and care into every Gratz Pilates apparatus, and we want you to be delighted with your new purchase. If there is an issue with your order, we want to solve it, but please keep the following in mind: 

Most Gratz apparatus is made to order and considered final sale. Upholstered and custom products (including Reformers, Cadillacs, Mats, Barrels, Chairs, Pillows, and more) are non-refundable and not eligible for exchange.

Non-upholstered parts and accessories (such as Springs, Wheels, Straps, Foot Correctors, etc.) may be returned or exchanged within 30 days of delivery. Returns are subject to a 7% restocking fee, and customers are responsible for return shipping costs. Original shipping and delivery fees are non-refundable.

Order changes may be requested, but timing matters. For upholstered/custom products, changing an order after 7 days (e.g., changing upholstery color) will incur a 25% restocking fee based on the value of the upholstered apparatus. 

Non-upholstered order changes requested after 1 hour may incur a 7% restocking fee.

If your item arrives with a manufacturing defect or transit damage, please contact Customer Care and include your order number, full name, and photos so we can assist.

• Upholstered / Custom ProductsIncludes Reformers, Cadillacs, Chairs, Barrels, Mats, Towers, Guillotines, Pillows, Shoulder Blocks, Boxes, etc.Orders can be cancelled before production begins at no chargeOrders in production incur a 25% restocking fee based on invoiced value.
• Non-Upholstered ProductsIncludes springs, wheels, straps, foot correctors, etc.Cancellations are possible if confirmed within 1 hour of placing the order. This is a short time window because non-upholstered part packing begins almost immediately upon order.

Upholstered / Custom Products
Includes Reformers, Cadillacs, Chairs, Barrels, Mats, Towers, Guillotines, Pillows, Shoulder Blocks, Boxes, etc.

Changes can be made free of charge if confirmed within 7 days of placing your order.

If changes are requested after 7 days (e.g., changing upholstery color), a 25% restocking fee will apply based on the value of the upholstered apparatus.

Please note that changing upholstery color or adding items to your order will extend the production timeline by approximately 4 weeks.

Non-Upholstered Products

Includes Springs, Wheels, Straps, Foot Correctors, and other small parts and accessories.

Changes must be confirmed within 1 hour of placing your order, as packing begins almost immediately.

If changes are requested after 1 hour, a 7% restocking fee will apply based on the total invoice value.

When you choose Gratz Pilates, you’re investing in equipment designed to last, elevate your practice, and support your studio for years to come. 

Gratz Commitment to Transparent Pricing 

At Gratz, we’re committed to transparency and fairness in all aspects of our business, including pricing. Our prices reflect the craftsmanship, materials, and precision that go into every piece of equipment, as well as our commitment to providing the highest-quality Pilates apparatus available. 

To ensure our pricing aligns with the value we provide and the costs of maintaining quality standards, we periodically review and adjust pricing when necessary. This allows us to sustain and grow our business in a way that continues to support our customers now and in the future. 

How Gratz Considers Price Changes 

When we consider a potential price adjustment, our goal is to keep pricing representative of the fair value, quality, and longevity of each Gratz apparatus. 

Several key factors guide this process: 

• Craftsmanship and longevity: Every piece is built to last, using traditional methods and premium materials that reflect the original Pilates design. 
• Cost of goods: Changes in the price of raw materials and manufacturing. 
• Economic conditions: Inflation, tariffs, and other external factors can affect production and distribution costs. 
• Sustainability of Gratz: Ensuring Gratz can provide the best Pilates equipment in the world, for decades to come.  

These considerations help us make thoughtful, responsible decisions that uphold our promise of excellence while maintaining transparency for our customers. 

Advance Notice on Price Changes

Whenever a price change is planned for a product, we will clearly post a 30-day advance notice on the product page. This gives customers time to plan and make informed decisions.  

Related, we understand that sometimes it takes some time to finalize an order. Given this, estimates are valid for 60 days. If the price of a product changes during this period, your estimate will not change. 

Supporting Your Investment with Trusted Quality

We understand that investing in Pilates equipment is a thoughtful decision. Our goal is to make that process as clear and stress-free as possible, while continuing to deliver the trusted quality Gratz is known for. 

No, Gratz Pilates does not offer bulk order discounts.  

Gratz Pilates is the original and best Pilates manufacturer, producing each individual apparatus custom, and with much skill and hand work for woodworking, finishing, welding and assembly.  

You can feel the Gratz difference in quality and durability as we build Pilates apparatus to Joseph Pilates’ specifications and to last a lifetime. 

Financing options are available through Affirm at checkout for qualifying orders.

Additionally, for orders over $20K, you may request to pay half at the time your order is placed. The remaining balance is due 45 days after your first payment or when your order is ready to ship.

For Small Parts and Accessories, to use your HSA or FSA debit card, add products to your cart as usual. At checkout, select “Flex | Pay with HSA/FSA” as your payment option, enter your HSA or FSA debit card, and complete your checkout as usual.

If you don’t have your HSA or FSA card handy, still select “Flex | Pay with HSA/FSA” as your payment method. Enter your credit card information and Flex will email you an itemized receipt to submit for reimbursement.

We strongly recommend checking with your HSA/FSA provider to see if a purchase is eligible prior to completing the purchase. However, if you believe your claim has been wrongly denied, please send over any response from your HSA/FSA provider to us so we can share it with Flex and receive guidance on the next best steps to take. Please note that employer-sponsored FSAs can determine what products are eligible beyond the IRS’s guidelines, so it’s extremely important to check prior to purchase.

Please check your spam folder, as sometimes emails from notifications@withflex.com may be automatically filtered as spam by some email service providers. If you still can’t find it, please email support@withflex.com and let them know the email address associated with your order.

You can order Color Swatches directly through our website: Vinyl Color Swatches

Gratz color swatches offer a true preview of the color and texture used on Gratz apparatus. Designed to help you confidently select the color that best suits your studio, each sample reflects the same high-quality vinyl, making it easier to select the right shade for you.

Order up to five swatches for the same flat shipping rate — whether you choose one or five, the cost to ship stays the same.  

All swatches ship out within 72 hours. 

Swatches are available in all 73 colors.

Yes and No — they describe the same equipment, but the language carries historical meaning.

In Classical Pilates, the word apparatus is used because Joseph Pilates designed each piece to assist the practitioner rather than perform the movement for them. The springs and structure provide resistance that responds to the body, helping develop strength, alignment, and control.

By contrast, a machine implies something self-powered or automated. Pilates apparatus is entirely powered by the human body — guided by precision and breath, not electricity or momentum.

Joseph Pilates himself never used the term machine in his writings. In his 1945 book Return to Life Through Contrology, he described his method as “the complete coordination of body, mind, and spirit” and referenced “apparatus” as the tools that aid that work.

Yes and No, both terms refer to the same piece of equipment. The Pilates Reformer, originally developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, uses a moving carriage, springs, straps, and bars to challenge balance, strength, and control. It was designed to “reform” the body through precise movement patterns. 

As Pilates reached broader audiences, many newcomers unfamiliar with its Classical lineage began referring to the equipment as Pilates reformer machines. Over time, the phrase entered common usage, even though Joseph Pilates always called his designs apparatus. But within the Classical Pilates tradition, it remains the Reformer apparatus and at Gratz Pilates — a human-powered tool that reflects Pilates’ original design and intent. 

This distinction is preserved by Gratz, and Classical educators such as Romana Kryzanowska and Jay Grimes, who both emphasized that the apparatus “works with you, not for you.”