Answers to the questions we hear most about buying, shipping, and owning a pinball machine from San Diego Amusements. Don't see your question? Call (858) 205-3788 or contact us.
Buying
Are you an authorized pinball dealer?
Yes. San Diego Amusements is an authorized dealer for Stern Pinball, Jersey Jack Pinball, Raw Thrills, American Pinball, Chicago Gaming, Turner Pinball, Namco, Barrels of Fun, Dutch Pinball, Multimorphic (P3), UNIS, Pinball Brothers, and Incredible Technologies (Golden Tee). Browse our Stern and Jersey Jack collections, or see all pinball machines.
Can I play a machine before I buy it?
Yes. Our showroom at 8690 Miramar Rd, San Diego, CA 92126 is open Monday through Friday, 9am–5pm. If you want to try a specific game, call (858) 205-3788 ahead of time and we'll have it ready. See our showroom page for details.
What's the difference between Stern Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition?
Pro is the base model with the full game and simpler toys. Premium adds motorized toys, extra mechanisms, and upgraded trim. A Limited Edition plays like a Premium and adds collector extras such as a mirrored backglass, exclusive cabinet art, custom armor, and a numbered plaque, all in a fixed production run. Our Pro vs. Premium vs. LE guide covers it in detail.
What does pre-order or allocation mean?
Stern divides each production run among its authorized dealers. New releases and Limited Editions are often sold as pre-orders against our allocation, and they ship when the manufacturer delivers them to us. Manufacturer dates can change. We'll tell you what we know about timing when you order and keep you updated.
Deposits and cancellations
How do deposits work?
Many new machines are reserved with a deposit at checkout. We'll contact you to arrange the remaining balance before delivery. Any deposit can be applied to a different machine if you change your mind about which game you want.
Are deposits refundable?
It depends on how the machine is sold. Deposits on in-stock machines are refundable until the machine ships, minus a 5% processing fee. Deposits on pre-order, upcoming, and allocated machines are non-refundable, even if the manufacturer delays the machine. Full terms are in our refund policy.
Can I cancel my order?
You can cancel within 24 hours of ordering for a full refund. After 24 hours and before the machine ships, a cancellation fee of up to 25% applies, plus any freight already incurred. Custom orders and allocated Limited Edition orders can't be cancelled once they've been ordered from the manufacturer. Orders can't be cancelled after shipping.
Can I return a new pinball machine?
No. New machines are final sale once they ship or are picked up. Damage in transit is handled through the freight damage process, and defects are handled under the manufacturer's warranty. See our refund policy.
Shipping and delivery
Do you offer free shipping?
New Stern pinball machines ship free to the contiguous United States (the lower 48). Pre-owned machines, other brands, and arcade games ship by freight at a quoted rate. See our shipping policy.
Where do you ship?
We ship pinball machines nationwide by freight. For Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, or other international destinations, call us at (858) 205-3788 for a freight quote. Free shipping does not apply outside the lower 48, and international buyers are responsible for duties, taxes, brokerage, and customs fees.
Do you offer local delivery and setup?
Yes. We offer in-home delivery and setup in San Diego County and Southern California for new and pre-owned machines. Ask for a quote when you order. You can also pick up from our showroom on weekdays, 9am–5pm.
What should I expect on delivery day?
Freight carriers call ahead to schedule a delivery appointment, and someone 18 or older must be there to sign. Delivery is usually curbside with a liftgate. The driver won't bring the machine inside or set it up, so have two or three people ready to help. If the machine arrives in cold weather, let it sit indoors at room temperature for at least 24 hours before you power it on.
What if my machine arrives damaged?
Inspect the crate with the driver present before you sign. Note any damage in detail on the Bill of Lading and take photos. If the driver won't wait, write "subject to inspection, possible concealed damage." Contact us within 24 hours of delivery with photos or video, and keep the crate and packing until the claim is settled.
What happens if I refuse a delivery?
If a delivery is refused and the machine isn't damaged, the customer pays freight both ways, storage or redelivery charges, and a 15% restocking fee, all deducted from any refund. If the crate is damaged, note it on the Bill of Lading and contact us right away.
Warranty, used machines, and trade-ins
What warranty comes with a new machine?
New machines come with the manufacturer's warranty, and we help you process any claims. The warranty doesn't cover misuse, unauthorized modifications, or damage from powering on a cold-delivered machine before it has warmed up.
Do used or HUO machines come with a warranty?
Pre-owned and home-use-only (HUO) machines are inspected and serviced before sale, and they're sold as-is and final sale unless the listing states a specific warranty. Our used pinball buying guide explains what to look for, and you can browse pre-owned machines here.
Do you accept trade-ins?
Yes, trade-ins are welcome. Call (858) 205-3788 or contact us with the title, model, condition, and photos of your machine, and we'll talk through options toward your next game.
Parts and service
Can I return parts?
Unused, unopened parts and accessories can be returned within 30 days of delivery, with a 20% restocking fee. A return authorization (RA) is required, so contact us before you send anything back. Installed parts, opened electronic parts, and clearance items can't be returned. Shop parts and accessories.
Do you repair pinball machines?
Yes. We offer repair in our shop and service by a mobile technician. Contact us or call (858) 205-3788 to describe the problem and schedule service.
How do I contact you?
Call (858) 205-3788. Aaron answers the phone himself. You can also email aaron@sandiegoamusements.com or use our contact page. Our showroom hours are Monday through Friday, 9am–5pm.
Full policy details: Refund policy · Shipping policy
