Service policy:

We service new and used Sommer saddles. We do not repair or re-stuff saddles from manufacturers other than Sommer. We have received training from Sommer on basic saddle repair and adjustment. This means that we can adjust the width of the Sommer tree gullet using the saddle adjustment machine, and we have been trained by Sommer on the correct method for adjusting the flocking inside the panels of a Sommer Saddle.

Rates:
For new saddles that we have sold, adjustment service is free, for the first 2 to 3 months. This does not include shipping of the saddle.
*Adjustment service consists of changing the gullet width or minor adjustment to the saddle's flocking to adjust for the horse that has changed shape- not to refit the saddle for a different horse than the saddle was originally fitted for. As we have mentioned in other parts of the website, flocking adjustments are best done on site, so if you live more than an hour from Warrenton, VA, you are better off to find a local saddle fitter to adjust the flocking in your saddle. We are happy to adjust the gullet width for you anytime, and if youre local we can also come out and adjust the flocking at your barn, with the horse.

The best way to fit a saddle is to physically be there, see the horse, watch you ride the horse, check the sweat pattern, and fit the saddle personally. Its best if you try to find a saddle fitter in your local area to work with first before you contact us. Many saddles do not need the gullet size changed in our Sommer Machine - the saddle gullet can be adjusted by adding or removing flocking, up to a point- . Any saddle fitter can do that, and to have one come to your barn and do it on site will save you time and money. When the saddle fitter says that they cannot make the gullet fit by adjusting the flocking, then its time to send us the saddle, have us adjust the gullet width, and then take the saddle back to the saddle fitter who can directly observe the saddle on your horse and make the final adjustments needed for the perfect fit. Its very difficult to do a complete adjustment by mail, especially if there is more than one area of the saddle that is not fitting the horse correctly or if you are not experienced with saddle fit yourself and have trouble describing to us what the problem is with the saddle.

If you have a problem with an older model of Sommer Saddle, we are happy to contact Sommer and get whatever replacement parts you need, or we can even arrange to ship the saddle back to Sommer for repair.

For normal adjustment service, we charge a per hour service rate of 40.00, plus the cost of shipping the saddle back to you. The time needed for adjustment varies depending on the year the saddle was made- and the model of saddle. Call us or e-mail if you would like to discuss the changes you think your saddle needs, before you ship the saddle to us. Unless otherwise pre approved, we do not return ship the saddles by anything other than ground shipping, with either US postal service or UPS, whichever is less expensive. If you need the return of the saddle by a certain date be sure to pre approve the amount you agree to spend on shipping and the method of shipping-we must have prior approval from the customer, or it will be shipped via ground service.

SHIPPING TIPS
Due to new Box size limits- be aware that the US Postal service has an 81 inch maximum total dimension limit for boxes, so use the smallest box that will safely fit your saddle. The 81 inch restriction is found by adding up the height, width, and depth measurements of the box. There is a US Postal service SURCHARGE of 100.00 not including the cost of shipping and insurance, on any box that is larger than this size. UPS also charges by size and weight. Most Sommer saddles will fit in a box that measures 20x20x20 you can find them at Office supply stores usually.

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