Your Robot Is Arriving: A Delivery and Unboxing Checklist

Last updated: November 2026

When a robot is on its way, track the shipment, plan to be home or have someone there, and clear a path from where the truck can stop to where the box will go. Before you sign, inspect the box for damage and note anything on the delivery receipt. Photograph the box and contents as you unbox, keep the packaging until you have tested the robot, and report any damage to the seller right away. Defective or damaged items are handled with the maker at no cost to you.

On X, one buyer posted that a carrier left his new robot mower on the street in front of his house for eight hours. It was not stolen, but it could have been. A little planning avoids that and makes any damage claim simple.

How long does delivery take?

Per our product listings:

Some brands do not ship to every location; for example, Beatbot does not ship to Alaska, Hawaii, US territories or military post boxes, and WYBOT does not ship to Alaska, Hawaii, Rhode Island, territories or PO boxes. Check the product page.

How do you prepare for delivery?

1. Watch tracking and note the delivery window.
2. Arrange for someone to be home where the carrier allows it, especially for freight.
3. Clear a path from the street or driveway to the garage.
4. Have a helper ready; boxed robots can be heavy.
5. Have a hand truck or dolly if you have one.
6. Pick the unboxing spot: a garage floor or patio with room to work.

How heavy are the boxes?

Heavy. Per the makers, the Yarbo Snow Blower module alone weighs 83 lb and the Lawn Mower Pro module 70.9 lb, before the Core and packaging. A Mowrator S1 and its battery add up quickly too; the 18Ah pack alone is 21 lb. Lift with a helper, keep your back straight, and use a dolly where you can.

What should you check before you sign?

• The outside of the box: crushed corners, holes, punctures, water damage, tilted or broken pallets.
• The count: the number of boxes matches the shipment.
• Tip or shock indicators if the shipment has them.

If anything looks wrong, note it on the delivery receipt before you sign ("box crushed at corner", "pallet damaged") and take photos with the driver present if you can. That note makes a damage claim much easier.

How do you unbox safely?

1. Photograph the box from all sides.
2. Cut tape carefully with a short blade, away from the contents.
3. Lift the robot out with a helper, by the points the manual shows, not by sensors or covers.
4. Photograph the contents as you unpack, and check the parts list.
5. Keep all packaging until you have tested the robot. Returns and claims often need the original packaging.
6. Break down the empty box later and do not leave it at the curb with the brand showing; it advertises what is inside. See do robot lawn mowers get stolen.

What should you do first after unboxing?

• Charge the battery fully before first use.
• Register the product with the maker if they offer it, and keep your receipt for warranty.
• Read the safety section of the manual.
• Set up following the maker's guide; see how to set up a wire-free robot mower.
• For a pool robot, check the filter, brushes and charger, and run it once while you watch.

What if something is damaged or missing?

Contact us as soon as possible with your order number and photos: Support@yardautomationpros.com or +1 423-927-3776, 9am to 5pm EST. For defective or damaged items, the supplier covers all costs, including return shipping. We help you file and follow up the claim with the maker.

What if you simply change your mind?

For returns that are not for a defect or damage, the customer pays return shipping to the supplier, and each brand's own return terms apply. Keep the original packaging and contact us before sending anything back, so the return goes to the right place.

Should you inspect a pool robot differently?

Pool robots are smaller, but check the same things: box condition, parts list, charger and cable or dock, and any visible cracks. Run it in the pool while you watch the first time. See can you leave a robotic pool cleaner in the pool for after-use habits.

What should you keep together for warranty?

Make a simple folder, paper or digital, with:

• Your order confirmation and receipt.
• The delivery receipt, with any damage notes.
• Photos of the box and the unboxing.
• The serial number of the robot, dock and battery.
• The manual or a link to it.

Most warranty claims ask for proof of purchase, and some need the serial number and photos. Yard Automation Pros helps you file and follow up on warranty claims with the maker, and having these ready makes it quick.

Still not sure which fits your property?

Tell us about your delivery address and access and a Yard Automation Pro will reply by email with a recommendation, or tell you honestly if none of our machines fits. Book a free consultation, or call +1 423-927-3776, 9am to 5pm EST. You can also try the Find Your Robot quiz and cost calculator.