Based on checking the website, Alansfactoryoutlet.com appears to be a legitimate and highly-rated online retailer specializing in custom-built metal carports, garages, and other metal buildings. The site boasts a 4.8 Overall Star Rating based on more than 22,000 reviews on Shopper Approved, an independent review platform, suggesting a strong track record of customer satisfaction. They highlight free delivery and installation, a 20-year warranty on 12-gauge orders, and a refundable small deposit to order, making the purchasing process seem straightforward and low-risk. Their emphasis on “factory direct prices” and “custom-made U.S. products” positions them as a value-driven provider for durable, American-made structures.
This into Alansfactoryoutlet.com reviews aims to give you the real skinny on whether they deliver on their promises.
We’ll explore their products, the ordering process, customer service, and what makes them stand out—or fall short.
If you’re considering a metal structure, understanding the experiences of thousands of other buyers can be a must.
Let’s peel back the layers and see if Alan’s Factory Outlet is the smart choice for your next carport or garage.
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IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
Understanding Alan’s Factory Outlet: What They Offer
Alan’s Factory Outlet specializes in robust, custom-built metal structures.
Their core offerings revolve around providing practical, durable solutions for vehicle protection, storage, and various other needs. This isn’t just about throwing up a basic shed. it’s about tailor-made solutions.
Product Range: Carports, Garages, and Metal Buildings
The primary product lines at Alan’s Factory Outlet include a comprehensive range of metal carports, garages, and other versatile metal buildings.
They aim to cover everything from a simple car cover to a full-fledged workshop.
- Carports: These are essentially covered structures designed to protect vehicles from the elements. They come in various styles:
- Regular Roof Carports: Feature a rounded roof, often the most economical option.
- Boxed Eave Carports: Offer a more traditional A-frame roof with horizontal panels.
- Vertical Roof Carports: The premium option, designed with vertical panels that shed snow and water more efficiently, making them ideal for heavy snow areas.
- Garages: Fully enclosed metal buildings providing secure storage and protection. Similar to carports, they offer different roof styles:
- Regular Roof Garages
- Boxed Eave Garages
- Vertical Roof Garages
- Other Metal Buildings: Beyond standard carports and garages, they also offer:
- Lean-To Buildings: These attach to an existing structure, providing additional covered space for storage or workspace.
- RV Carports: Taller and wider options specifically designed to accommodate recreational vehicles.
- Barns and Agricultural Buildings: While not explicitly detailed as a separate category on the homepage, the customizable nature of their metal buildings suggests potential for agricultural uses.
Customization Options and the 3D Builder
One of the most frequently praised features, according to customer testimonials, is their 3D Builder tool. This interactive online tool allows customers to design their ideal structure from the ground up. Howards.co.uk Reviews
- Real-time Pricing: As you add or change features, the price updates instantly, which is a massive win for budgeting and transparency. As one verified buyer, Josh Pellom, noted, it “Sure beats calling around for quotes!”
- Visual Representation: The 3D view allows users to see exactly how their chosen dimensions, roof style, colors, and added features will look. This visual feedback is crucial for making informed decisions. Mary Trent mentioned, “I also liked the 3 d view it was amazing and I really like the color height options and it is very detailed with all the information.”
- Feature Selection: Users can select:
- Sizes: Various lengths, widths, and heights, including options for RVs.
- Roof Styles: Regular, Boxed Eave, and Vertical.
- Colors: A wide palette of over 16 colors for roof, sides, and trim.
- Doors: Garage doors various sizes, walk-in doors.
- Windows: For natural light and ventilation.
- Other Options: Enclosures, gables, anchors, and more, depending on the structure type.
This level of customization, coupled with an intuitive online interface, appears to be a significant factor in their positive customer feedback.
The Purchasing Process: From Design to Installation
A smooth purchasing process is critical for any significant investment.
Alan’s Factory Outlet emphasizes simplicity and transparency, from the initial quote to the final installation.
Online Ordering and Deposit System
The website makes it clear that the entire process, from design to ordering, can be completed online.
- Easy-to-Use Interface: Customers consistently praise the website’s user-friendliness. Michael Fletcher noted, “So far things have been quick and easy, and the website is super user friendly!”
- Small Deposit: A key aspect of their payment structure is the requirement of a 10% to 17% refundable deposit to book the order. This is a crucial detail, as it means customers aren’t fronting the full cost upfront. The remaining balance is due only upon completion and installation. This phased payment model is designed to instill confidence, as the final payment is contingent on a satisfactory installation.
- Payment Methods: Deposits are typically handled via credit card. The final balance can be paid by credit card or check.
Free Delivery and Installation: What to Expect
One of the most attractive selling points, heavily promoted on the website and reiterated in numerous reviews, is free delivery and installation. This significantly reduces the total cost and logistical burden for the customer. Genixhealthcare.com Reviews
- Geographical Coverage: While delivery and installation are free, they are limited to specific states. The website lists Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia. It’s essential for potential customers to check their zip code on the website to confirm service availability, as construction specs and pricing can vary by state due to local code requirements.
- Installation Team: Reviews frequently highlight the professionalism and efficiency of the installation teams. Walter Willoughby, a repeat customer, mentioned “Quick, easy, professional installers.” Similarly, Timothy Mitchell stated, “Install was quick and efficient. The team went the extra mile to ensure proper placement and satisfaction.” This suggests a well-trained and customer-focused installation crew.
- Ground Preparation: While installation is free, customers are typically responsible for preparing a level site for the structure. The website offers a “Concrete Pad Size Calculator” to assist with this, indicating that customers need to ensure their site meets the necessary requirements for a smooth installation.
Customer Service and Support
In any major purchase, the quality of customer service can make or break the experience.
Alan’s Factory Outlet seems to prioritize accessible and knowledgeable support.
Phone and Online Support Channels
They offer clear avenues for customer interaction, aiming for responsiveness and helpfulness.
- Toll-Free Number: A prominent 1-800-488-6903 number is available for direct phone contact, operating Monday-Friday, 8 AM – 6 PM ET. This direct line suggests a commitment to personal interaction for those who prefer speaking to a representative. Tammy or Paul Dunn specifically praised Melissa, a customer service representative, for being “very professional, and willing to let me ask all the dumb questions.”
- Help Center/FAQs: The website features a “Help Center” for frequently asked questions, which can be invaluable for self-service and quick answers to common queries regarding ordering, delivery, installation, and product specifications.
- Contact Us Form: A general contact form or email option is typically available for less urgent inquiries, providing another digital communication channel.
Warranty and After-Sales Support
A strong warranty indicates confidence in product quality and provides peace of mind for the buyer.
- 20-Year Warranty: Alan’s Factory Outlet offers a 20-year warranty on 12-gauge orders. This is a significant commitment, especially for outdoor structures that endure various weather conditions. It’s important to note that the warranty specifically mentions 12-gauge, implying that other gauges might have different warranty terms, though this isn’t explicitly detailed on the homepage.
- Durability Focus: The emphasis on “Durable Construction” throughout the site suggests that their structures are built to last, reinforcing the value proposition of the warranty. This kind of long-term assurance is crucial for protecting a customer’s investment.
- Problem Resolution: While the reviews mainly highlight positive experiences, the presence of a help center and direct phone line suggests mechanisms are in place for addressing potential issues post-purchase and installation. The consistent positive feedback implies that issues are either rare or are handled effectively when they do arise.
What Customers Are Saying: An Analysis of Reviews
The vast majority of reviews for Alan’s Factory Outlet are overwhelmingly positive, with a 4.8 Overall Star Rating based on over 22,000 reviews on Shopper Approved. This is a significant data point and suggests a high level of customer satisfaction. Theforexcomplex.com Reviews
Key Themes in Positive Reviews
Several recurring themes emerge from the customer testimonials presented on the homepage.
- Ease of Ordering and Website User-Friendliness: This is perhaps the most common praise. Customers like Kimberly Blake found it “simple and easy.” Michael Fletcher called the website “super user friendly.” Scott Sterling highlighted the “very impressive” and “intuitive” website and ordering process, stating it influenced his choice over other vendors.
- Competitive Pricing: Many reviewers mention getting a good deal. Ben stated, “Cheaper than the other guys and included the anchors. Best deal without a doubt!” Jimmy Bumper also noted “great prices for good product.”
- Quick Delivery and Installation: The efficiency of the delivery and installation teams is frequently lauded. Ben reported “Very quick to deliver, faster than the other guys online.” Tim Wagner simply said, “Wow!! Quick and easy!”
- Professional and Knowledgeable Staff: Both sales and installation teams receive high marks. Kevin Barclay mentioned “knowledgeable customer service personnel,” and Tammy or Paul Dunn praised Melissa for her professionalism. Installers are frequently described as “professional” and “efficient.”
- Quality of Product: While less verbose than comments on the process, many reviews imply satisfaction with the final product. Dale Swain noted, “Great carport for the price. The team that delivered it were fast and efficient. It looks good and is well made.”
Potential Areas for Consideration Based on Lack of Negative Feedback
While the provided homepage heavily emphasizes positive reviews, it’s prudent to consider what potential customers might want to look for beyond curated testimonials.
- Specificity on Warranty Coverage: While a 20-year warranty on 12-gauge orders is excellent, details on what exactly is covered e.g., rust, structural integrity, specific components and any limitations or exclusions would provide greater clarity.
- Lead Times: While “quick delivery” is mentioned, concrete average lead times from order to installation are not explicitly stated on the homepage, though it does mention checking zip code for “estimated delivery times.” These can vary significantly based on location, seasonality, and order complexity.
- Handling of Site Preparation Issues: What happens if a customer’s site isn’t perfectly level? While the company provides a calculator, the process for addressing minor site issues during installation or if a site is deemed unsuitable isn’t detailed.
- Resolution of Complex Issues: While simple orders seem to go smoothly, insights into how Alan’s Factory Outlet handles more complex, unusual, or problematic situations e.g., changes after order, damage during transit, installation challenges due to unforeseen site conditions would provide a fuller picture.
The sheer volume and consistency of positive reviews across an independent platform like Shopper Approved provide strong empirical evidence that Alan’s Factory Outlet generally delivers on its promises.
Advantages of Choosing Alan’s Factory Outlet
When you’re making a significant purchase like a metal building, understanding the distinct advantages offered by a vendor is crucial.
Alan’s Factory Outlet highlights several compelling reasons to choose them. Steadyecom.com Reviews
Factory Direct Pricing and Value Proposition
A key benefit touted by Alan’s Factory Outlet is their “factory direct prices.” This model typically means fewer intermediaries, which can translate into cost savings for the consumer.
- Eliminating Middlemen: By selling directly from the factory, they aim to cut out distributor markups, allowing them to offer more competitive pricing. Many customer reviews, like Ben’s, directly confirm this, stating they were “Cheaper than the other guys.”
- Inclusion of Services: The “free delivery and installation” is a major part of their value proposition. Unlike some competitors who might charge extra for these services, Alan’s Factory Outlet bundles them in, making the quoted price the final price for the structure and its setup. This transparency in pricing, without hidden fees for essential services, contributes significantly to their overall value.
- Long-Term Investment: Coupled with the 20-year warranty on 12-gauge orders and their focus on durable, custom-made U.S. products, the competitive pricing suggests a strong long-term value. Customers are getting a structure designed to last, without excessive upfront costs.
Made in the USA and Quality Assurance
The emphasis on “custom-made U.S.
Products” is a significant selling point for many customers, often associated with higher quality control and support for domestic industries.
- Quality Control: Manufacturing in the U.S. generally implies adherence to specific quality standards and regulations. This can result in better material quality, precision in manufacturing, and overall structural integrity compared to products sourced from regions with less stringent oversight.
- Material Gauges: While the 20-year warranty is for 12-gauge structures, they likely offer different steel gauges e.g., 14-gauge is also common. The gauge of steel determines its thickness and strength, with lower numbers indicating thicker steel. A 12-gauge structure offers superior durability and resistance to harsh weather conditions, which aligns with their focus on long-lasting products.
- Structural Integrity: The use of robust metal frames and panels, combined with professional installation, ensures that the buildings are designed to withstand local weather conditions, be it heavy snow, strong winds, or intense sun. The ability to customize for specific needs e.g., wind ratings, snow loads further enhances this quality assurance.
Practical Considerations and Tips for Buyers
While Alan’s Factory Outlet receives high marks, like any significant purchase, there are practical steps and considerations buyers should keep in mind to ensure a smooth experience.
Site Preparation Requirements
The responsibility for site preparation falls on the customer. Dontoverthinktrading.com Reviews
This is a critical step that directly impacts the ease and success of the installation.
- Level Ground is Non-Negotiable: For any metal structure, a perfectly level site is paramount. Uneven ground can lead to structural instability, difficulty in assembly, and potential long-term issues with the building’s integrity. The installers expect a prepared site upon arrival.
- Clearance and Access: Ensure the chosen site has adequate clearance around it for the installation crew to work efficiently. This means clearing away debris, vegetation, or any obstacles that might impede their movement or the placement of structural components. Also, consider the access path for their delivery vehicles.
- Foundation Options: While concrete pads are ideal for permanent structures and often recommended, some installations might be done on gravel or compacted dirt. However, concrete offers the best long-term stability and is crucial for meeting certain local building codes. Alan’s Factory Outlet provides a “Concrete Pad Size Calculator” to assist with planning.
- Permits and Local Codes: This is arguably the most important pre-installation step. Before ordering any structure, it is the customer’s responsibility to check with their local city or county building department for specific requirements, permits, and zoning laws. Failure to secure necessary permits can lead to fines, demolition orders, or inability to install the structure. Building codes vary significantly by location, especially concerning wind loads, snow loads, and foundation requirements.
Understanding Estimated Delivery Times
While “quick delivery” is a common theme in reviews, it’s essential to understand that actual delivery times can vary.
- Factors Influencing Delivery:
- Location: Distance from the manufacturing facility and density of orders in a specific region can impact scheduling.
- Manufacturer: As stated on the website, “estimated delivery times for new orders… vary by manufacturer and location.” Alan’s Factory Outlet likely partners with various manufacturers or installation teams across their service areas.
- Seasonality: Peak construction seasons might lead to longer wait times.
- Order Complexity: Highly customized or very large structures might require more time for fabrication.
- Checking Your Zip Code: The website provides a feature to “Enter your zip code to check if we service your area and get estimated delivery times for new orders.” This is the best way to get a realistic expectation for your specific order. It’s not uncommon for these structures to have lead times of several weeks to a few months, so planning ahead is crucial.
Comparing Alan’s Factory Outlet to Competitors
In a competitive market, understanding how Alan’s Factory Outlet stacks up against other providers is key to making an informed decision.
While direct, detailed comparisons are outside the scope of a review from their homepage, we can infer some comparative strengths based on their highlighted features and customer feedback.
Key Differentiators
Alan’s Factory Outlet seems to distinguish itself on several fronts: Joinfreedelivery.com Reviews
- Online Customization and Real-time Pricing: The 3D builder with instant pricing is a significant competitive advantage. Many competitors may require customers to call for quotes or use less intuitive configurators, making the design and pricing process more opaque and time-consuming. This user-friendly transparency sets them apart.
- All-Inclusive Pricing Free Delivery & Installation: While some competitors might offer low base prices, they often add substantial charges for delivery and installation. Alan’s Factory Outlet’s bundling of these services into the initial quote provides a clear, upfront cost, which is highly valued by customers as seen in reviews praising their competitive pricing.
- High Volume of Positive Reviews: A 4.8-star rating from over 22,000 verified reviews on an independent platform like Shopper Approved is a powerful testament to consistent customer satisfaction. This level of proven positive experience is a strong differentiator against companies with fewer or less transparent reviews.
- Focus on U.S. Manufacturing: For many buyers, “Made in the USA” signifies higher quality, ethical production standards, and domestic job support, which can be a decisive factor over companies sourcing globally.
- Strong Warranty: A 20-year warranty on 12-gauge structures is a robust offering, providing long-term peace of mind that may surpass standard warranties offered by some competitors.
Factors to Consider When Comparing
When doing your own comparative research, always scrutinize these aspects:
- Total Cost: Always ask for a final, all-inclusive price from competitors, ensuring delivery, installation, and any necessary accessories like anchors are included.
- Customization Flexibility: How easily can you modify designs, choose colors, and add features with competitors? Is their online tool as intuitive?
- Customer Reviews and Reputation: Look beyond a company’s own website for reviews on independent platforms BBB, Google Reviews, Shopper Approved, Trustpilot, etc..
- Warranty Details: Understand the specifics of the warranty—what’s covered, for how long, and any conditions.
- Lead Times and Service Area: Confirm that the competitor serves your specific location and what their typical delivery and installation timelines are.
- Steel Gauge Options: Compare the steel gauges offered and their impact on price and durability. Ensure you’re comparing apples to apples in terms of material strength.
By using Alan’s Factory Outlet’s clearly stated advantages as a benchmark, prospective buyers can more effectively evaluate other options in the market and make the best decision for their specific needs and budget.
Maximizing Your Investment with Alan’s Factory Outlet
Once you’ve decided on a metal structure, there are strategies to ensure you get the most out of your purchase from Alan’s Factory Outlet, both in the short term and over its lifespan.
Choosing the Right Structure for Your Needs
This isn’t just about picking a size.
It’s about optimizing the structure for its intended purpose and your local environment. Ruthe1.com Reviews
- Assess Your Primary Use:
- Vehicle Protection: If it’s primarily for a car, truck, RV, or boat, measure your vehicle’s dimensions accurately length, width, height, especially for RVs and add generous clearance. Consider a vertical roof carport for superior snow and water shedding if you live in an area with heavy precipitation.
- Storage: For general storage, a fully enclosed metal garage is ideal for security and protection from all elements. Think about shelving, workshop space, or potential future needs.
- Workshop/Workspace: Ensure adequate height for comfortable movement and potential future equipment. Consider adding windows for natural light and walk-in doors for easy access.
- Multi-Purpose: If you envision multiple uses, design for flexibility. A larger garage with a lean-to might serve various purposes.
- Consider Future Needs: While you might only need a single-car carport now, think about a second vehicle, an ATV, or even a small boat in a few years. Upsizing slightly upfront can save significant costs and hassle later.
- Local Climate: As mentioned, vertical roofs are better for snow. For high wind areas, ensuring proper anchoring and potentially heavier gauge steel if offered is crucial. Discussing local building codes for wind and snow loads with their sales team or your local authorities is vital.
- Aesthetics: With over 16 color choices, you can match your new structure to your existing home or property. This isn’t just functional. it adds curb appeal and value.
Maintenance Tips for Longevity
While metal buildings are known for being low-maintenance, a few simple practices can significantly extend their lifespan and appearance.
- Regular Cleaning:
- Exterior: Periodically wash the exterior with a mild soap and water solution to remove dirt, grime, and environmental buildup. This prevents staining and maintains the finish. A pressure washer on a low setting can be effective, but avoid direct, high-pressure streams that could damage seals or finishes.
- Interior: Keep the interior clear of debris. For garages, sweep or hose down the floor as needed.
- Inspect for Damage:
- Panels and Roof: Annually inspect the metal panels for any signs of dents, rust spots, or loose fasteners. Address small rust spots early with appropriate metal primer and paint.
- Seals and Flashing: Check around doors, windows, and roof edges for any compromised seals or flashing. Re-seal or repair as necessary to prevent water intrusion.
- Anchors: Ensure all anchors remain secure and tight, especially after severe weather.
- Clear Gutters and Downspouts if applicable: If your structure includes gutters, keep them free of leaves and debris to ensure proper water drainage away from the foundation.
- Ventilation: For enclosed garages, ensure adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to condensation and potential corrosion issues, especially in humid climates.
- Snow and Ice Management: While vertical roofs are designed to shed snow, in areas with extremely heavy snowfall, it might be beneficial to clear excessive accumulation from the roof, especially for larger or boxed-eave structures, to prevent undue stress.
By proactively addressing these areas, you can ensure your Alan’s Factory Outlet structure remains a valuable and functional asset for decades, truly maximizing your initial investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Alansfactoryoutlet.com sell?
Alansfactoryoutlet.com specializes in custom-built metal carports, garages, and other metal buildings like lean-tos, designed for vehicle protection, storage, and various other uses.
Is Alansfactoryoutlet.com a legitimate company?
Yes, based on the website, Alansfactoryoutlet.com appears to be a legitimate company with a 4.8 Overall Star Rating based on over 22,000 reviews on Shopper Approved, an independent review platform.
What are the main products offered by Alan’s Factory Outlet?
The main products offered include regular roof carports, boxed eave carports, vertical roof carports, and various styles of enclosed metal garages, along with customizable metal buildings and lean-to structures. Woodysmotorhomehirecumbria.com Reviews
Does Alan’s Factory Outlet offer free delivery and installation?
Yes, Alansfactoryoutlet.com prominently advertises free delivery and installation for their metal carports and garages in their specified service areas.
What is the typical deposit required to order from Alan’s Factory Outlet?
Customers typically pay a 10% to 17% refundable deposit to book their order, with the remaining balance due upon completion and installation.
What kind of warranty does Alan’s Factory Outlet provide?
Alan’s Factory Outlet offers a 20-year warranty on 12-gauge orders, demonstrating confidence in the durability and longevity of their structures.
How customizable are the buildings from Alan’s Factory Outlet?
Their buildings are highly customizable through their online 3D Builder tool, allowing users to select size, roof style, over 16 color choices, and add features like garage doors, walk-in doors, and windows.
Can I see what my custom building will look like before buying?
Yes, the website features an interactive 3D Builder tool that allows you to design and visualize your custom metal building in real-time, with instant price updates. Honeylegal.co.uk Reviews
What states does Alan’s Factory Outlet deliver to?
They deliver to Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia.
You can check your zip code on their website for service availability.
Do I need to prepare the site for installation?
Yes, customers are responsible for preparing a level site for the metal building installation.
The website provides a Concrete Pad Size Calculator to assist with planning.
Are Alan’s Factory Outlet buildings made in the USA?
Yes, the website states that their products are “custom-made U.S. products.” Neathwindowcare.co.uk Reviews
What is the general customer sentiment towards Alan’s Factory Outlet?
The general customer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with a 4.8 Overall Star Rating based on more than 22,000 reviews on Shopper Approved, frequently praising ease of ordering, competitive pricing, and efficient installation.
How quickly does Alan’s Factory Outlet deliver and install?
Many customer reviews mention “quick delivery” and “quick and efficient” installation, though exact estimated delivery times vary by location and manufacturer, which can be checked on their website.
What payment methods are accepted for the final balance?
The remaining balance is due upon completion and installation and can be paid by credit card or check.
Does Alan’s Factory Outlet offer buildings suitable for RVs?
Yes, they offer versatile sizing options, including taller structures specifically designed to accommodate larger vehicles like RVs.
How can I contact Alan’s Factory Outlet for support?
You can contact them by phone at 1-800-488-6903 Monday-Friday, 8 AM – 6 PM ET or visit their online Help Center. Keepmovinglogistics.net Reviews
What if I need to change my order after placing the deposit?
While the website doesn’t explicitly detail the change process, contacting their customer service via phone would be the recommended first step to inquire about order modifications.
What should I know about building permits and local codes?
It is the customer’s responsibility to check with their local city or county building department for specific requirements, permits, and zoning laws before ordering and installing any structure.
Are the prices on Alansfactoryoutlet.com fixed, or do they change?
The prices shown on their 3D Builder tool are custom and update in real-time as you design, providing an instant and accurate quote for your specific configuration.
What are “lean-to” buildings?
Lean-to buildings are structures that attach to an existing building, providing additional covered space, storage, or a sheltered area for vehicles or outdoor activities.
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