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2.0 58 Reviews

Balsam Hill Complaints Summary

15 Resolved
43 Unresolved
Our verdict: When using services from Balsam Hill with a poor resolution rate, be vigilant. Understand the common pitfalls other customers have faced. Prepare thoroughly for any interactions with their customer service, and consider alternative solutions if your issues are not addressed satisfactorily.
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Balsam Hill reviews & complaints 58

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5:53 pm EDT

Balsam Hill Poor service

Have had the same trouble as other reviewers. My wife and I spent $700 on a nice tree to be enjoyed supposedly for Years to come.

When the tree arrived we set it up. It had a significant lean to the side that I could not fix. I took the tree apart and put it back together again at least 4 times and still the lean was there.

We also noticed a smashed electrical plug that looked unsafe.

We called Balsam Hill NUMEROUS times. Each time I held the line for around 35 to 45 minutes just to speak with someone. When someone finally answered they told me I would have to wait for warranty help to call me back. They never did. We did a credit card back dispute, BBB complaint, and our situation still remains unsolved.

Please don't make the same mistake as we did and find another supplier for your tree. You do not want to deal with these people, they are ripoff artists.

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12:25 pm EDT

Balsam Hill Bad Quality & No Customer Service

This is a nightmare of a company to deal with. I have personal experience of buying a 12' tree from Balsam Hill at a cost of around $2000. The biggest mistake I made last year. Once you have bought your Christmas tree from them it all goes downhill from then on. Lights burn out and whole sections stop working. They have very little technical support and customer service is there just to blow you out. That's if you are lucky enough to speak to anyone. They always seem to have some kind of excuse and are happy to tell you that you will get a call-back. You never do. The light bulbs on their trees are unique to them so when you get a problem you have to try (and 'try' is the key word) to get replacements. That doesn't happen. If you attempt a credit card chargeback they place your file on an internal blacklist because they moke note about everything. They have the nerve to say their customer's are rude, when that is not true. Balsam Hill is a shady outfit. The internet is full of negative reviews about this company. Just go Google the words "Balsam Hill Complaint" and you will see dozens of complaints. The Better Business Bureau has them listed with over 50 recent complaints. Even the Facebook page of Balsam Hill is full of unhappy customers (until they delete the comments). My advice is to stay away from Balsam Hill and their web site www.balsamhill.com because their products are nothing but trouble. One of their customers has even built a web site about them warning others to stay away. It is www.balsamhillsucks.com

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9:05 am EDT

Balsam Hill Rip off

Balsam Hill is a complete Rip-Off...if you are even thinking about buying a tree from this company, please do yourself a favor. DON'T DO IT. IF YOU CHECK BBB.ORG AND READ THE COMPLAINTS, YOU DEFINITELY WON'T ORDER FROM THEM. ALSO, GOOGLE: BALSAM HILL COMPLAINTS AND YOU WON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT IT TWICE. IT'S THE WORST EXPERIENCE I'VE EVER HAD. SAVE YOURSELF THE AGGRAVATION. DON'T ORDER FROM THEM.

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6:19 pm EST
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Balsam Hill POOR QUALITY - BAD CUSTOMER SERVICE

This is one of the worst e-commerce retailers out there. They just don't care about their products or their customers. I spent $2000 on a 12' tree from Balsam Hill. It arrived defective and has continuous lighting problems. This year more than 2000 out of the 4000 light bulbs do not work. Balsam Hill just says, oh well, you have to do maitenence now and again. The tree was bought at the end of 2009. Its in its second season this year. Balsam Hill is full of excuses and promises to call you back or send spare parts. Its all false promises. Once they have your money they just don't care. The Better Business Bureau shows dozens of complaints about Balsam Hill. Actually, all you have to do is Google the words "Balsam Hill Complaint" or "Balsam Hill Reviews" and you will find hundreds of unhappy customers. One customer has a dedicated web site called www.balsamhillsucks.com ! Please, do not but a Christmas tree from Balsam Hill. It will be the worst experience you have. Its a shame the recession didn't wipe-out this shady outfit!

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gogo101
Oxnard, US
Dec 10, 2012 2:38 am EST

Balsam Hill - Defective lights! Purchased a 9 foot pre-lit clear/colored lights option tree in 2009. Put it up the first year fairly easily and it looked great for that season. Took care in taking it down and storing it... have never had the same experience again since. 2010, couldn't for the life of me put the right plugs together to get the all clear or all color option to work so I just kept it lit with all lights for that year. 2011, took me 4 days to get the tree lights plugged correctly! I should have quit on day one and thrown it away because even after I got it together, half of the lights burned out! Here we are in 2012 and I'm spending hours cutting all of the light strands off the tree with wire snips. I spent over $1300 originally and I do not want to throw it away because I feel guilty about spending money on something that I know I can remedy. I am going to go back to the old fashioned method of stringing the lights on just the way I did before when I had my $99 Target Christmas tree that was tried and true for almost 20 years prior to buying this overpriced and unreliable pile of SH;T from Balsam Hill. Oh, and back in 2010, I tried to call customer service and couldn't get through to anyone to compain to!

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10:51 pm EST
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Balsam Hill Tree looks nothing Like Picture

I bought the tree in the middle of the year the picture of the tree was this full amazing full tree beautiful - a 600.00 plus tree on sale for 50% - mid year sale - and of course Oprah (i knew then I should have been weary) endorses the company. Well Christmas has come - in the middle of decorating my mother in law passes away - this tree is the skinnies thing you will ever see - the middle pole is like rainbow in color - I spent a total of 12 hrs "fluffy" this tree and nothing can make this "Charlie Brown" tree come alive - it is so skinny it is sad - well all they can say is tough - sorry - to bad - a %349.50 investment and mind you this is an investment gone BAD - I am not asking for a refund mind you - I am asking for another tree - BUT NO way - you got this lousy tree lady to bad. What kind of service is that - ROTTEN - I say - stay away from Balsam Hill or if you are Buying - IMMEDIATELY open up the package and get the tree out and look it over carefully - you most probably WILL be disappointed.

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Yodaladyhoo
San Leandro, US
Dec 24, 2010 10:25 pm EST

We purchased in 2007. I think the original poster got off lucky! I paid full price for mine and it is the most deformed looking thing. Each section tilts in a different direction that I am amazed that all of the pieces can connect. Our tree actually does pass as a real tree only because no one can believe that a company would intentionally make something so freakishly crooked. It would be funny if not for the outrageous price tag of 700. plus dollars for an 8' tree. The customer service for this company is the worst and, frankly, I'm surprised that they are still in business. I've seen trees in Big Lots that were prettier than mine. Thank goodness there are so many lights on it that it can literally blind you to the imperfection...OK, not really...it's still freakishly crooked.

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balsamhillsucks
Rye, GB
Dec 21, 2010 6:12 pm EST
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Balsam Hill Trees - Bad Quality & No Customer Service - 12' VERMONT SPRUCE

This is a nightmare of a company to deal with. I have personal experience of buying a 12' tree from Balsam Hill at a cost of around $2000. The biggest mistake I made last year. Once you have bought your Christmas tree from them it all goes downhill from then on. Lights burn out and whole sections stop working. They have very little technical support and customer service is there just to blow you out. That's if you are lucky enough to speak to anyone. They always seem to have some kind of excuse and are happy to tell you that you will get a call-back. You never do. The light bulbs on their trees are unique to them so when you get a problem you have to try (and 'try' is the key word) to get replacements. That doesn't happen. If you attempt a credit card chargeback they place your file on an internal blacklist because they moke note about everything. They have the nerve to say their customer's are rude, when that is not true. Balsam Hill is a shady outfit. The internet is full of negative reviews about this company. Just go Google the words "Balsam Hill Complaint" and you will see dozens of complaints. The Better Business Bureau has them listed with over 50 recent complaints. Even the Facebook page of Balsam Hill is full of unhappy customers (until they delete the comments). My advice is to stay away from Balsam Hill and their web site www.balsamhill.com because their products are nothing but trouble. One of their customers has even built a web site about them warning others to stay away. It is www.balsamhillsucks.com

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1:22 am EST
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Balsam Hill Damaged / Unclear Description

I purchased a wreath from Balsam Hill Christmas Tree Company and expected to get something to be proud of. Unfortunately the 48" artificial wreath was hinged, which was not disclosed anywhere on their website where a normal person could fine it. After calling Kathy at customer service, she spent around 20 seconds trying to locate this ...having to go a few clicks to locate (while all along saying that all but one of their 48" wreaths was hinged). Wouldn't you think that it might be a good idea to state this on the main page where the wreaths are presented so as to avoid the surprise of finding this out once you receive delivery? And yes, she said she would speak with the web design department...should I hold my breath?

In addition to this fact, the wreath came with several of the ornaments lying at the bottom of the box.

Lastly and most importantly, the wreath required more than a reasonable amount of time to "fluff" in order to make it look anything close to being realistic.

Needless to say, it is being returned. Their return policy calls for a full refund but I will have to pay for the shipping cost.

Thank God for AMEX. As long as I change the shipping cost on my AMEX card, they will reimburse me for the cost.

Bottom line - this Company has a fantastic website...very attractive. Unfortunately, they should spend a little more time with having their product come from the factory in a more presentable manner so as to avoid the level of customer satisfaction!

My recommendation - keep away from them. Expensive and the product is very disappointing!

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Deflagratus
Austin, US
Dec 27, 2012 12:08 am EST

It does mention that they are hinged, I don't know how this Idiot missed it. Maybe he should have purchased a good pair of reading glasses instead

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7:47 pm EST
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Balsam Hill ship product without all parts

I bought a tree from this company. I spent $1500. The tree arrived on time but they sent it with the wrong stand. I was unable to set the tree up. I tried calling them 20 times and was disconnected each and every time. I sent emails and created tickets and never received a response. My family was in from out of state and we were unable to set the tree up. The kids were obviously disappointed. I had to dispute this charge. They never responded. The parts to the tree still sit in my garage.

DO NOT DO BUSINESS WITH THIS COMPANY.

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5:10 pm EDT

Balsam Hill Will never buy from balsam hill

I purchased a prelite tree from balsam hill after one year had trouble with a section of the tree having shortage.I at the time i bought the tree was told there was 10 year warranty come to find out warranty on lights 3yr only tree branchs 5yr.spent way to much money on this tree will never buy from balsam hill.

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dborder13
, US
Dec 02, 2017 1:27 pm EST
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their "warranty" is replacements. after several "replacements" with lights that don't work either -- who wants another replacement? they refuse to give a refund. HORRIBLE COMPANY!

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balsamhillsucks
Rye, GB
Dec 21, 2010 6:20 pm EST
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This is one of the worst e-commerce retailers out there. They just don't care about their products or their customers. I spent $2000 on a 12' tree from Balsam Hill. It arrived defective and has continuous lighting problems. This year more than 2000 out of the 4000 light bulbs do not work. Balsam Hill just says, oh well, you have to do maitenence now and again. The tree was bought at the end of 2009. Its in its second season this year. Balsam Hill is full of excuses and promises to call you back or send spare parts. Its all false promises. Once they have your money they just don't care. The Better Business Bureau shows dozens of complaints about Balsam Hill. Actually, all you have to do is Google the words "Balsam Hill Complaint" or "Balsam Hill Reviews" and you will find hundreds of unhappy customers. One customer has a dedicated web site called www.balsamhillsucks.com ! Please, do not but a Christmas tree from Balsam Hill. It will be the worst experience you have. Its a shame the recession didn't wipe-out this shady outfit!

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2:39 pm EDT
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Balsam Hill POOR CUSTOMER SERVICE / DEFECTIVE PRODUCTS

This is the worst possible company you could ever consider doing business with regarding purchasing a Christmas tree. We are a very dissatisfied customer being added to the long list that seems to be growing with this company. There are numerous negative reviews, poor feedback and complaints about Balsam Hill
After spending almost $2000 on a Christmas tree at the www.balsamhill.com web site, it was put up for Christmas of 2009, just after New Years Day a complete set of several hundred bulbs went out. We called their customer support department and they suggested checking the fuses. We did that and found they had blown. Immediately upon replacing them they blew again. A third attempt, they blew again. It was obvious now that there was some kind of electrical defect in the light string.
We called Balsam Hill again and they said a member of customer services would call back. They never did. So we called them again and were then told they couldn’t do anything about it until February. We called again in February and were told somebody would call us back. They never did so we called our credit card company to file a chargeback. Balsam Hill responded to that by saying we should call them again. We did, only to be told that they may issue an RMA but it will take up to 3 weeks for somebody to get back to us to do that and only if they think it will be necessary.
It has now been over 3 weeks and we have heard nothing at all from Balsam Hill. Having called them today, only to get the run-around yet again. This time told that there is nobody available in customer services to answer and somebody would call back. Sure, we have heard that one before! It’s not going to happen. I asked if the person had ever seen all the negative reviews on the internet about Balsam Hill and of course she said she has never looked and when questioned, why not? She said she was a temporary worker. This company seems to have an answer for everything.
I would never recommend this company to anyone. They have zero customer service and just do not care. Their products and their company appear to be nothing other than a rip-off!

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Mike Bell
Windermere, US
Dec 14, 2012 3:18 pm EST
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Could not agree more, this is one poorly operated business with no structure and support. How can ELLEN and OPRAH photos be associated with this company? These guys must be clueless or at least I hope so! This was actually a selling factor for me! The structure must be hidden! One cannot find a representative that can assist you without sending your requests to another department, all supervisors are always busy, ((( 30 phone call experience here ))), they can however take your credit card number and make false promises.
First of all I ordered there best tree... an Estate Fir 12 ft tall with a 75 inch base. This is a $3000 dollar tree. Paid extra $300 plus on November 29 for second day Fedex and was told the tree would arrive on Saturday. If this could not happen, told the girl I did not want to order the tree. Was put on hold for few minutes, then assured this would happen. I finally received the tree on December 5th, we can all do the math. Then Immediately contacted the company every day to report the shipping delays, hence on the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th. On the 5th of December I called to say the boxes had been dropped off, no one signed and that 3 of the four boxes had been opened. The First section of the tree measured 60 inches, the Second section measured 68 inches. Woah, I stopped and called for the 7th time, inclusive of the order, to be told that I would have to wait 7-10 days for someone to get back to me to send me another tree. As one could imagine I did not take this and was livid! I needed the tree for Christmas not Easter. No problem, just have to return the tree, they sent me the RMA and address on the December 6th. *** ( Note this tells me someone can make a decision and respond ) *** WRONG! The NightMare continues! Take the boxes back to my mail center to find out that the shipping will be around $1200 for a tree that I did not order due to the wrong dimensions, the second section was also damaged, and the other boxes 2 and 3 of four looked to have been repacked as well. Only one of the four boxes had never been opened. Basically I just got someone else's return problem. I call Balsam Hill from the shipping office to be informed about their shipping policy. This is the fine print, not the one that says 100% return satisfaction garuntee. WOAH! I then called AMERICAN EXPRESS filed a complaint, then transferred over to customer service representative for further assistance. Am-Ex contacted Balsam with me on the line and listen to the complaint. Needless to say, after about 45 minutes we got the shipping down to $50 per box, $200 total. A few hours later Jody called me back and further reduced the cost to $50. GREAT this is finally coming to an end. WRONG AGAIN! I get a call today December 14th to find out if I received my email containing the labels. Of course there is NO such email. Had this address for 20 years, get 50 plus business emails per day from all the world and never a problem! The lady says she can give me the label numbers over the phone, thinking ok, lets try. I call Fedex and they try using the numbers which are not tied to any account, have no recipient or sender. Basically useless! The lady tells me to call back if I have a problem. I do so and of course get someone different, she isn't available, and this lady is going to resend them right away and asks me to call back to confirm in the next 15 minutes. We'll she forgot to tell the next two people I talked to. Again, she is no longer available and the first guy is more useless, I have to hang up and just call right back. I get a lady who tells me its been sent back to another office and I should get a reply tomorrow, December 15th.
I would strongly suggest NOT buying anything from this company. I agree with the others above, they need to be shut down. OPRAH and ELLEN should dedicate a program for this. Let them try to order under another name, see what they get and try to something about it. People should be careful about endorsing companies. I am from a family business of 47 years, others up to 25 years and have had very few complaints, but never left one unanswered and fairly resolved each and every one personally. My moto was the customer was always right! Hey, i just got a phone from the owner of a vineyard making sure my order was correct, thanking me, ect... YES THE OWNER! I as an owner of my business do EXACTLY the SAME THING!
Balsam Hill in my opinion is NOT a trustworthy company, there product is NOT superior, in fact cheesy, there is absolutely no customer service or moral obligation felt needed by these people. STAY AWAY! Search for a Chicago based company 50-70 year old company, can't remember the name off hand, but bought 3 or 4 large trees from them over the last 30 years, they were just out of stock this time. Now, I know why...

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balsamhillsucks
Rye, GB
Dec 21, 2010 6:22 pm EST
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This is one of the worst e-commerce retailers out there. They just don't care about their products or their customers. I spent $2000 on a 12' tree from Balsam Hill. It arrived defective and has continuous lighting problems. This year more than 2000 out of the 4000 light bulbs do not work. Balsam Hill just says, oh well, you have to do maitenence now and again. The tree was bought at the end of 2009. Its in its second season this year. Balsam Hill is full of excuses and promises to call you back or send spare parts. Its all false promises. Once they have your money they just don't care. The Better Business Bureau shows dozens of complaints about Balsam Hill. Actually, all you have to do is Google the words "Balsam Hill Complaint" or "Balsam Hill Reviews" and you will find hundreds of unhappy customers. One customer has a dedicated web site called www.balsamhillsucks.com ! Please, do not but a Christmas tree from Balsam Hill. It will be the worst experience you have. Its a shame the recession didn't wipe-out this shady outfit!

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10:28 am EST
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Balsam Hill Credit for Christmas Tree

Received a Christmas Tree that was nothing like the photo and did not measure out to the 7.5 height Full 60" width 1, 000 lights that it said I would be getting. When I pulled out branches as far out as I could one branch and only one branch reached to 55 1/2" width advertised. Only one branch which was at least 1 inch long reached the 7.5 height and only a few more branches reached almost the 6.5" height. I tried to count the so called 1, 000 lights and came to about 800 lights (not that accurate hard to count). A few of the tree branches were worn and the photo of the tree I thought I was buying did not come even close to looking like the one I received. I was so convinced they sent me the model below the one I paid for that I took the chance of sending it back and not getting $50.00 back for return shipping. They said to return it and they would check it out to see if I got what I ordered, if I did I would get back a credit minus $50.00 return fee. Well now I am out $50.00 and went to Harrows to buy another tree. A tree that said it was the same 7.5" height and 60"width that actually is what it says it is. The height is not just the one branch (the one longer branch makes the height higher than the 7.5". The few branches width wise are actually wider than the 60". I was deceived by Balsam and warn everyone not to buy a tree from them.

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6:23 pm EST
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Balsam Hill Nothing like product advertised

Shopped online for an artificial prelit christmas tree that would be easy to set up and enjoy. I am a single parent with several young children and need to do things by myself. The website for Balsam Hill showed videos/pictures of beaufiful life like trees. I decided to purchase a tree/on sale for $569. The tree arrived, delivered by fed ex, and left in my hallway. The boxes were alittle banged up but I figured it would be packaged properly. When I decided to set up the tree several days after delivery, I was overwhelmed with the difficulty of the assembly and also the weight of the pieces. It was advertised as simply to assembly. Not true...false advertisement. After much frustration the tree did not assemble properly. Broken lights, pins releasing branches of sections, crushed remote control from being taped to an inside flap of the box. The tree was a disgrace for the amount of money I was charged. Contacted customer service, was told they would replace the remote and transfer me to technical assistance to see what could be done. I was not interested because I had already invested a good part of the day on a tree that looked nothing like the pictures shown on the website. Spent another hour packaging the tree for return. Was charged $122. to return a tree that was not what I thought I purchased. Although I was aware of the return policy, I don't think you should have to pay for a defective tree that looks as though it was already returned by someone else. This was a costly learning experience for me. I will never invest that kind of money on something without doing more homework. I wish I had researched the complaint board before my purchase. I plan on continuing to work with this company to try to receive my proper refund. I will hire a attorney if needed. Companies like this one should not be allowed to rob hard working consumers. I believe a company that doesn't stand by their product and try to satisfy their customers should be shut down.

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3:33 pm EST
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Balsam Hill False Advertising

I wish I had found this website before ordering two artificial Christmas trees from this company. These people are criminals and they know it. The photographs they show on their website do not come close to representing the actual appearance of their products. I wouldn't be surprised if this equates to "bait and switch". Website photos are beautiful. Trees are full and dense. You cannot see the "trunk", or through the tree at any point. Actual trees are thin. "Trunk" is totally visible. You can see through every portion of the tree.

Unfortunately, I found out to late. I going to cost me $100-$150 to return the low quality trees they sent me. They advertise having the most luxurious trees, crafted to exceed expectations. Their trees come from China! I did not find this out till after they arrived. They also lead you to believe the entire trees are fully hinged, they are not.

That's my sorry story about my online tree shopping experience. Save yourself a lot of pain. Find a tree locally you can see in person.

Rich W. - Apex, NC

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balsamhillsucks
Rye, GB
Dec 21, 2010 6:21 pm EST
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This is one of the worst e-commerce retailers out there. They just don't care about their products or their customers. I spent $2000 on a 12' tree from Balsam Hill. It arrived defective and has continuous lighting problems. This year more than 2000 out of the 4000 light bulbs do not work. Balsam Hill just says, oh well, you have to do maitenence now and again. The tree was bought at the end of 2009. Its in its second season this year. Balsam Hill is full of excuses and promises to call you back or send spare parts. Its all false promises. Once they have your money they just don't care. The Better Business Bureau shows dozens of complaints about Balsam Hill. Actually, all you have to do is Google the words "Balsam Hill Complaint" or "Balsam Hill Reviews" and you will find hundreds of unhappy customers. One customer has a dedicated web site called www.balsamhillsucks.com ! Please, do not but a Christmas tree from Balsam Hill. It will be the worst experience you have. Its a shame the recession didn't wipe-out this shady outfit!

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Miguelortega
Boise, US
Nov 27, 2010 10:49 pm EST

Have to agree with you. I bought a Vermont Spruce which was supposed to be their top of the line. This company is really a scam. I had problems after just 1 season of use. We donated the tree and bought one from Tree Classics this year instead. Live and learn I suppose.

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8:18 pm EST
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Balsam Hill Defective Product and Poor Customer Service

My Christmas Tree Nightmare With Balsam Hill, a terrible company.

Lesson Learned: Do your homework and check reviews and opinions before you make an expensive purchase online.

About 3 weeks ago I was bragging that I had ordered a fake tree that was on clearance from Balsam Hill. I've never had a fake tree in my life, but I just wanted to try something different. I ordered an $800 tree on clearance for $429 (the is just supposed to be a discontinued item, not defective in any way). I know...it seems like a lot of money, but I thought of it as an investment for the next several years. Oh boy...was I wrong...

I couldn't make this up...I swear. Let me see how to summarize my horrific experience with Balsam Hill...

Ordered tree online on Nov. 23

Received box 1 of 2 on Nov. 28

Received box 2 of 2 on Dec. 2

I opened the boxes on Dec. 2 to find out that they had shipped 2 section B's of the tree and no section C. They had also not packed any instructions, gloves or extra lights and fuses. All of these things should have been included in my shipment. Essentially, I had 2 boxes of junk. I did not have the right parts to assemble a tree.

Here's where the nightmare begins...after daily phone calls and emails trying to get the right section C and all my parts, all I got were lies from the customer service reps and no call backs from the company, I finally filed a complaint with the BBB last Wednesday.

Finally, today...on December 15, I received section C of the tree, but still no extra lights, fuses, instructions or gloves. The fun doesn't end here...oh no...my husband was finally able to assemble the tree tonight and section D's post is too big for E so he had to rig some pvc and shovel handle to hold it together so it wouldn't topple over - He doesn't know how he's going to pry those 2 sections apart after christmas..lol.

The best part was when we placed section A at the top of the tree and we thought our troubles were done...

DH plugged in the lights and my entire tree has white lights except section A at the top...they are multi colored!

I almost blew a gasket...dh remained calm and said that we've learned our lesson and he's not sending anything back because he's tired of dealing with their cracker jack operation.

I did call them again tonight and a "lighting technician" was available to help me and he's sending me some white lights for the top of the tree. I did already get a shipping confirmation email from him. Thank gawd!

I tried everything...that's why I finally filed the complaint with the BBB. I called them everyday and told them that I wanted a refund and that they had ruined my holiday season because they had stolen my hard earned money and left me with 2 giant boxes of junk.

It's hard to get justice when I'm cross country from them and have to deal with them by phone and email.

And honest to gawd...I can't even imagine what kind of idiots they have packing these trees and supplies for shipping. How can you not know your A, B, C's and not pack all the right sections and parts? What ###s!

I wanted to send the tree back from the beginning and get my money refunded, but the company won't budge on their refund policy...I would have to pay about $100 in shipping out of my own pocket and who knows if they would ever confirm receipt of the returned merchandise! They are flakes!

My PSA - Don't buy an expensive Christmas tree online.

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Samantha-111
Orlando, US
Oct 21, 2011 3:13 pm EDT

I agree. STAY FAR away from Balsam Hill or their other cloaked brands which I've found to be the following: www.treeclassics.com www.treetopia.com and www.christmastreemarket.com. These jokers are selling the same garbage to people across multiple domains. If I were Google or Bing I would completely de-index this company from the internet. They are RIPPING PEOPLE OFF!

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Dissatisfied Customer of Balsam Hill
, US
Dec 10, 2009 2:15 pm EST

I have to say I totally agree with the author above. I just purchased an artificial tree (also for the first time).
I found Balsam Hill online and was impressed with their advertising and media coverage! I thought...if it was good enough for Ellen...it was good enough for me!
I figured if I was going to go artificial I at least wanted it to be "Beautiful". They said on the phone that the tree was 4.5 foot so I took a tape measure and measured where 4.5 foot would come up to and decided that was a good size for me. Much smaller than my usual 7' live tree but I thought 4.5 wasn't so bad once I put it on a table or stand.
Once the tree arrived it took alot longer to put together than I was told because of having to shape and mold every single branch but that was ok with me as long as it was going to look good.
I found though, during the process 2-3 springs came off in my hand and the base and post of the tree was a whole 1 foot which left the actual tree only 3.5 feet. Do you know how small 3.5 feet is for a Christmas tree...VERY small! The tree also has much more branches on the top half than the bottom and the tree has the outlets for the lights (already pre-strung) wrapped in a ball of branch material so it looks like I have 3 softball size, branch covered balls in my tree! Not pretty! And to top it off it cost over $200 for this tiny tree on sale no less! With tax, S&H and all I was in for over $250 for this tiny Charlie Brown tree. Needless to say I am extremely dissatisfied.
I called the company only 1 day after receiving my tree and told them of my dissatisfaction. The first customer service rep "Deborah" from Maine was very condescending and rude and I did not want to deal with her anymore. I asked for the manager and at that point she continued to try and talk to me instead of immediately transferring me. I finally got it through her thick head that I was NOT interesting in dealing with her any longer and she put a so called "supervisor" on (Charity). (Not only will you not get "charity" but there is no "empathy" either!) I explained my dissatisfaction with her and explained how rude the customer service rep was. Her reply was that "She was one of the best service reps they have"! (I feel sorry for them!) At that point I explained to her that I was just letting her know about how I was spoken to and she can do what she wants with that information.
I asked her if she would be interested in matching the price of a comparable tree which is on JCPenny.com for only $99 or I will return it but I do not want to incur shipping fees since the tree is going back because it is NOT as shown on the website or explained to me by the rep.
At this point she repeatedly went over the return shipping policy because they do not match pricing. I explained to her that I know the return policy but...I am sending it back due to the company's misrepresentation of the item (they show a picture of the tree without the post and base so it looks bigger!). She again repeated herself about the return policy over and over and over and over again!
At that point I realized I was going to get nowhere with this person either so I asked to speak to the owner or a regional manager. She refused to transfer me, take a message, give me a direct number to call ect... I could NOT believe this person would refuse to give a paying customer the phone number to her manager or anyone else. That was it, I had to deal with her only and pay return shipping no matter how I felt about the issue? Is this common practice? Not in my experience of 50 years.
All I can say is DO NOT purchase anything from this company unless you want to buy a 7' tree and pay $729.00 and get a 6' tree! That is probably the only way you may be somewhat satisfied with your purchase.
I too am filing with the BBB.
Hope this helps future artificial tree buyers ;)

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Balsam Hill Product Quality

Purchased an $800 Christmas tree from Balsam Hill last year. Upon taking it out this year all of the stickers that label the complex lighting had fallen off leaving no way to effectively assemble the tree. Upon contacting Balsam Hill they recommended that I try to glue or tape all the stickers back on with a few hours of phone assistance from their technician. This is an impossible task due to the complex nature of the lighting. The company promises a quality product and charges quite a bit for it, however they certainly do not deliver. This problem could be easily rectified by a permanent labeling system since these trees are meant to be used for years but Balsam Hill customer service and the CEO refuse to take notice of this defect in their product leaving the consumer at a loss when it fails in under one years time. I live within driving distance of the company and could have taken the tree in for repair or they could send a technician out but apparently this isn't an option. Had this been a $100 tree from Walmart I might expect this. It was not. Be aware if you are considering a purchase from Balsam Hill, this is a product that is only used once a year but if it fails in a year then you will be very frustrated and out a lot of money.

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balsamhillsucks
Rye, GB
Dec 21, 2010 6:20 pm EST
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This is one of the worst e-commerce retailers out there. They just don't care about their products or their customers. I spent $2000 on a 12' tree from Balsam Hill. It arrived defective and has continuous lighting problems. This year more than 2000 out of the 4000 light bulbs do not work. Balsam Hill just says, oh well, you have to do maitenence now and again. The tree was bought at the end of 2009. Its in its second season this year. Balsam Hill is full of excuses and promises to call you back or send spare parts. Its all false promises. Once they have your money they just don't care. The Better Business Bureau shows dozens of complaints about Balsam Hill. Actually, all you have to do is Google the words "Balsam Hill Complaint" or "Balsam Hill Reviews" and you will find hundreds of unhappy customers. One customer has a dedicated web site called www.balsamhillsucks.com ! Please, do not but a Christmas tree from Balsam Hill. It will be the worst experience you have. Its a shame the recession didn't wipe-out this shady outfit!

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Balsam Hill Defective Tree/Bad Customer Service

Last year I bought a tree for $1229 from Balsam Hill Tree after checking out their branch kit. Spent a whole day trying to set up but found many defects - broken stand, balls of wired lights (not spread around the branches) branches coming out due to lack of push-pins & more. They delivered it promptly and later, via phone, agreed to issue credit upon return (they paid for return ship), but it took 2 months of calls, emails, which they didn't respond to, and it wasn't until I contacted Better Business Bureau that I got a credit. Very nice when you're buying but agonizing experience trying to get a credit. Doing business with them is risky! I wrote a version of "Night Before Christmas" out of frustration. It tells my story!

The Nightmare Before Christmas
(with apologies to Clement Clarke Moore)

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even my spouse.
Stressed from the problems with our Balsam Hill Tree,
Fell asleep with his pliers while up on one knee.

The pets were nestled all snug in our beds,
While visions of tree lights danced in their heads.
And papa in fleece, and I in my sweats
Were contemplating whether to contact Fed-Ex.

When out of the den there arose such a clatter,
The base had collapsed and the tree lay much flatter.
Away to the doorway I flew like a flash,
Switched on the light to check out the crash!

The realistic branches with lights that we loved,
Came tumbling down--no push-pins above!
When what to my wondering eyes should appear,
Our Balsam Hill tree lying front over rear!

With so many branches loose and detached,
I knew in a moment we must send it back!
More rapid than eagles my spouse did sing,
And he whistled, and shouted, get rid of this thing!

Now crap, now ###, now g------ s---!
Damn branches, damn lights, damn stand, that’s it!
To the top of the window! To the top of the wall!
A star would be if this tree were any good at all!

As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,
When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky.
But--down to the ground the branches they went,
With the tree full of lights and realistic tips all bent!

And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the phone,
Jean from Balsam Hill saying you’re not alone.
As I listed the flaws of my beautiful tree,
She told me a credit she’d issue to me!

I got dressed and came in to look at our tree,
Picking up needles with tape stuck to me.
Five bundles we needed to wrap up real tight,
To haul to the boxes with all of our might!

The lights how they twinkled! The branches so real!
The needles so soft and the stand made of steel!
The vision we had of this beautiful tree,
So many problems, twas never to be!

The stump of a toothpick I held tight in my teeth,
While listing the problems and, yes, no receipt!
I had a red face when I voiced my concerns,
Worried that they would take no returns.

Then she was helpful, as nice as could be,
Yes, we laughed, twas Jean from Balsam Hill Tree.
She told me a call tag she’ll issue ahead,
Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.

She spoke a kind word and went straight to her work,
Contacting Fed Ex and reaching the clerk.
And a return we decided after so many talks,
Our beautiful tree will be packed in the box.

He sprang to his van after loading the tree,
And away he drove, and how sad were we!
But my husband exclaimed, ‘do not despair, ’
A real tree we’ll get for many a year!

Twas a week after Christmas and still not a word,
Not a credit appeared, how downright absurd!
After dozens of phone calls and emails from me,
I couldn’t get through to Balsam Hill Tree!

I couldn’t get nestled all snug in my bed,
I dreaded no refund and a battle ahead!
For six weeks I angrily stirred and paced,
Over Balsam Hill Tree who I endlessly chased!

When out of my brain there arose such a clatter,
Contact my VISA, they’ll help with this matter!
I wrote them a letter to explain the debacle,
That Balsam Hill caused and the problem we’d tackle!

I still tried to contact Ms. Davis to see,
If she’d send me my refund to end this misery!
I kept calling and calling but to no avail,
Customer Service was closed for a post-Christmas sale!

Contacting Balsam Hill reps was tough,
Being jerked around for six weeks was finally enough!
Better Business in California I finally did call,
When I tried every means and then hit a wall!

More rapid than eagles I got a reply,
BBB did their thing and I guess s... did fly!
In less than a week, how shocking was this,
A Balsam Hill apology for “PERCEIVED” lack of service!

How nervy, I thought, to use these words,
“Perceived lack of service, ” that’s for the birds!
A lack of service as real as can be,
Was prolonged for six weeks by Balsam Hill Tree!

And then in a twinkling I saw on my bill,
My refund for $1229, what a thrill!
Two months since I bought that Balsam Hill Tree,
That caused the worst Christmas I ever did see!

Balsam Hill Tree they nailed to the wall,
My refund I got, but that was not all!
The interest I lost on my VISA I got,
And satisfaction that Balsam Hill Tree got caught!

If ever a lesson I learned from this mess,
Is to research a product, it’s maker, and yes,
Check Consumer Reports and the BBB,
You’ll be much better off, less worries, you’ll see!

Be smart when you shop in stores and online,
Know all of the rules and then you’ll do fine!
Hope your Holiday’s happy and out of sight,
Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

DH

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Balsam Hill Stuck with a xmas tree that won't stand & doesn't fully light

I ordered an artificial tree from this company on line. It arrived promptly, however upon opening & trying to assemble the tree on Thursday, we discovered that it did not fit into the stand. I immediately called "customer service" which the web site states is open 24 hours. I spoke with the company rep who after taking all my order info said that she would send an email to "customer service" and they would get back to me within 48 hours. As she admitted, she is merely an order taker & can be of no help in addressing any problems. Upon my response that 48 hours was an unacceptable wait given this 9' tree was sitting in pieces through out my living room & huge boxes sit in my entry way, she said she would do the best that she could but could make no promises. I called 2 times on Friday, but was not allowed to talk with anyone who could actually do anything. Someone from customer service called me at 6 PM on a Friday evening when I was not there, and left a message asking for further information & to call her back, despite the fact that I had already given all the necessary information to all of the prior reps, but it didn't seem to be documented. So I have now spoken to 4 people, yet nothing has been done to rectify the problem. I finally get through on Saturday morning only after getting fairly belligerent. After a barely 2 minute conversation, it is determined I need a bigger stand. However, the stand cannot be shipped on weekends, so the best they can do is to send Monday for a Tuesday arrival. When I object & ask if I can count on the rest of tree working when we do get this stand, she suggested I check the various sections to see if they work before I decide whether to return the tree & assured me that I would be able to get through to her, that she would make sure of it. Well, I have now been waiting on hold 40 minutes so far (& only after I was told that "she isn't in today")to tell her that in addition to one stand, one section does not light properly. I have never dealt with such an unprofessional business in my life. I am sitting in my messy, undecorated house on hold when I should be decorating the tree, baking, cleaning up for our upcoming holiday guests or even shopping, but I am stuck waiting on hold to tell them that this tree is going back, since I have no faith that it will be in working order when the correct, functioning pieces arrive. So now, I have to pack this thing up, ship it back (& wait up to 30 days for a refund) & go out & get a real tree. They obviously have no respect for their customers & no particular concern for quality control of their product.

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Tannenbaum Tree set of 3
Flower Mound, US
Nov 23, 2012 7:25 pm EST

I tried doing business with Balsam Hill for the first time this year. Big mistake! Ordered the Tannenbaum Tree (set of three) which was all suppose to come in one box, they said. The box came with three mismatched tree parts and three metal stands. All other branch pieces were not included. Also the quality of the foliage is most disappointing - very cheap looking. I spoke to Kyle in their customer service department who was rude and lecturing. He said if I returned the partial order shipping would be at my expense - a minimum of $50.00! He said if I wanted the rest of the pieces to complete the order for which I had paid in full, I would have to email a total of six pictures of the items and the box. Don't order anything from this company! If you are disappointed in the quality you receive, it will cost you plenty just to return it.

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balsamhillsucks
Rye, GB
Dec 21, 2010 6:22 pm EST
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

This is one of the worst e-commerce retailers out there. They just don't care about their products or their customers. I spent $2000 on a 12' tree from Balsam Hill. It arrived defective and has continuous lighting problems. This year more than 2000 out of the 4000 light bulbs do not work. Balsam Hill just says, oh well, you have to do maitenence now and again. The tree was bought at the end of 2009. Its in its second season this year. Balsam Hill is full of excuses and promises to call you back or send spare parts. Its all false promises. Once they have your money they just don't care. The Better Business Bureau shows dozens of complaints about Balsam Hill. Actually, all you have to do is Google the words "Balsam Hill Complaint" or "Balsam Hill Reviews" and you will find hundreds of unhappy customers. One customer has a dedicated web site called www.balsamhillsucks.com ! Please, do not but a Christmas tree from Balsam Hill. It will be the worst experience you have. Its a shame the recession didn't wipe-out this shady outfit!

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balsamhillsucks
Rye, GB
Dec 21, 2010 6:20 pm EST
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

This is one of the worst e-commerce retailers out there. They just don't care about their products or their customers. I spent $2000 on a 12' tree from Balsam Hill. It arrived defective and has continuous lighting problems. This year more than 2000 out of the 4000 light bulbs do not work. Balsam Hill just says, oh well, you have to do maitenence now and again. The tree was bought at the end of 2009. Its in its second season this year. Balsam Hill is full of excuses and promises to call you back or send spare parts. Its all false promises. Once they have your money they just don't care. The Better Business Bureau shows dozens of complaints about Balsam Hill. Actually, all you have to do is Google the words "Balsam Hill Complaint" or "Balsam Hill Reviews" and you will find hundreds of unhappy customers. One customer has a dedicated web site called www.balsamhillsucks.com ! Please, do not but a Christmas tree from Balsam Hill. It will be the worst experience you have. Its a shame the recession didn't wipe-out this shady outfit!

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BonnieMii
Hartford, US
Feb 09, 2010 2:38 pm EST

I had the same problem but it was with a Costco tree from years back. Through recommendation of my husband who saw it online we got a Tree Classics tree. I've had the tree since 2006 and haven't had a problem with it yet. I had a random light out but thats normal so overall I'm very pleased. Their site is www.treeclassics.com. You get what you pay for, I guess. Well, in most cases!

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Joe
,
Oct 06, 2008 5:35 pm EDT

Balsam Hill. I bought the "best" tree they had to offer...the 9' Aspen Silver Fir. This thing cost a fortune, look it up! I got the multi and clear lights with remote. The needles are fairly lifelike, but not for the price. The branches all mount in perfect circles around the trunk...no staggering...and you can easily see this when sitting down (not as obvious from a standing position, but for this price!?!). Made in China, and it shows. The mounts for the branches appear to be flimsy and may easliy break off, and from the customer service complaints, I've seen online, I have no faith in their Warranty. The remote controll and controller apear plasticy and cheap. The wires for the lights are just wrapped around the branches, not hidden inside. In my opnion, someone is making alot of money marketing a highly marked up marking up Chinese product. Now I have to foot the $120 bill to ship it back. Balsam Hill.

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DBear
Norwood, US
Jan 07, 2008 2:58 am EST

Totally agree! I bought a $1229 tree on 11/13, had it in 2 days. Had broken stand, pins missing that secure branches, balls of excess wire wrapped up & wired to branches, branches not in slots but wired to other branches with not enough slack to put in proper slot holders. Customer service was great in November, got to know people by first names, especially "Jean" who told me to return the tree. They paid to have the tree shipped back (agreed it was a "lemon"). Received at their warehouse on 11/29. It's been almost 6 weeks and I still haven't received my credit yet. Called many times in December, asking "Jean" (cust. service rep) to return my calls but has not. Sales dept. who cannot do anything said even they cannot reach customer service dept. which is "downstairs" from them (according to one sales agent). On 12/26 was told that I could not speak to customer service, Jean was not available. On 12/28 I was told that "all credits would be issued next week." On 1/2/08 I was told that I should have gotten my credit by now. On 1/4/08 I was told that "Loreen" would "escalate" my request for my refund. They are supposed to issue credit within 30 days from when they received the returned item. It's well beyond that now. I have 30 days after their 30 days, to file a dispute and they are eating up my time by giving me every excuse in the book. I'm also going to file complaints with the atty. generals office in my state and Better Business Bureau. Balsam Hill is obviously making a ton of money on interest that belongs to their customers. Something needs to be done about it.

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Amy Smith
,
Dec 25, 2007 9:42 am EST

I absolutely disagree. When you purchase an item and it clearly states you have a timeframe for returns, that should be end of discussion. I cannot see why people think there should be exceptions... if an exception is made for each little issue, why would companies even have a return policy?

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Peggy Stone
,
Dec 20, 2007 1:13 pm EST

We purchased a tree in August from Balsam Hill. We moved into a new home and the tree is too large for our space. When I first contacted Balsam Hill for an exchange, the person emailed me back and informed me they do not do exchanges but I could return the tree within 30 days of purchase and before December 25. I had included my order number with the message so I assumed she knew that I was past thirty days, but before December 25. She asked if I wanted a return authorization. I sent a note back saying YES.

When I got no response I called the Customer Service line. That person told me (she immediately said you are past thirty days) that they do make exceptions to the return policy and the person I had been corresponding with had the authority to make that exception. She took my name and phone number and told me Angie would call me the next day. No one called, but Angie sent me an email saying "upon further review you are past the 30 days, no return." I sent a message back asking for consideration, some options because I had a tree that I could not use. The message came back no - but happy holidays.

I then sent a letter to the CEO Thomas Harman via overnight courrier asking for consideration - an exchange for a smaller tree, a 3/4 or 2/3 refund, something! So far no response. So much for Customer Service. I will never purchase a product from Balsam Hill again nor will I recommend them. To the contrary I will tell everyone I can not to buy from them.

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Balsam Hill - Customer service direction leaves product unusable!

On July 20, 2007, I contacted Balsam Hil Christmas Tree Company via the internet to purchase a Norway Spruce, 9-ft full 79", with Color+Clear lights. The purchase price was promptly billed to my credit card. It was delivered on time as indicated by the shipper with no visible damage evident due to shipping. Because it was seasonal merchandise, the boxe...

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Balsam Hill Deceptive advertisement!

I ordered an artificial Christmas tree from this company, being impressed with the photos and info. given in what to look for in purchasing an artificial tree. The tree that arrived at my home looked nothing like the photo representation. Balsam hill says that no wires or pole would be visible, NOT TRUE! I sent this company an e-mail with enclosed photos of my tree (major gaps, exposed wires, poor shape and fullness) compared to their advertised tree and told them I was returning the tree but did not feel that I should pay the return postage due to what I felt was deceptive advertising. I got a reply, the standard form I'm sure, that did not address my specific complaints, but did say the return postage was still my responsibility. I will never order a large item like this, sight unseen again.

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marcia giannotti
, US
Oct 22, 2023 5:33 pm EDT
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Purchased tree on Sept 9 . Continually watched shipping information from China . No shipper had information on tracking .

Supposedly on Oct 3 it was out for delivery and signed for . However no tree was ever delivered or signed for .

Order number was [protected]

Tracking. Number AS029591986C CC Nz

Trying to post pictures but not able

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Love Balsam Hill
Somerset, US
Oct 22, 2023 1:22 pm EDT

Quality, imagination, taste and style all included. It just doesn't get any better than Balsam Hill!

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Love Balsam Hill
Somerset, US
Oct 12, 2023 8:54 am EDT

It just doesn't get any better than Balsam Hill!

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Anthony Monte
, US
Dec 09, 2019 5:54 am EST

the lighting system is a night mere no one to give you info nothing horrid

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Smk
, US
Aug 24, 2016 7:48 am EDT

This is a nightmare of a company to deal with. I have personal experience of buying a 12' tree from Balsam Hill at a cost of around $2000. The biggest mistake I made last year. Once you have bought your Christmas tree from them it all goes downhill from then on. Lights burn out and whole sections stop working. They have very little technical support and customer service is there just to blow you out. That's if you are lucky enough to speak to anyone. They always seem to have some kind of excuse and are happy to tell you that you will get a call-back. You never do. The light bulbs on their trees are unique to them so when you get a problem you have to try (and 'try' is the key word) to get replacements. That doesn't happen. If you attempt a credit card chargeback they place your file on an internal blacklist because they moke note about everything. They have the nerve to say their customer's are rude, when that is not true. Balsam Hill is a shady outfit. The internet is full of negative reviews about this company. Just go Google the words "Balsam Hill Complaint" and you will see dozens of complaints. The Better Business Bureau has them listed with over 50 recent complaints. Even the Facebook page of Balsam Hill is full of unhappy customers (until they delete the comments). My advice is to stay away from Balsam Hill and their web site www.balsamhill.com because their products are nothing but trouble. One of their customers has even built a web site about them warning others to stay away.

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Hazmat319
, US
Dec 03, 2015 8:10 pm EST
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Balsam Hill's website is a total misrepresentation! They state that if you purchase prior to 12pm ET the tree is sent out same day. After 12pm it is sent out next day. Well...I ordered a VERY expensive tree 4 days ago and it still hasn't shipped out. Today I get an email stating it's going to be another 1-2 days! I based my purchase on the information given on their website. When I called customer service today to find out why my tree hadn't been shipped I get perky "Kristen" on the phone who tells me "I have GREAT news for you...your tree is on the Fedex truck!" I ask her what my tracking number is she proceeds to tell me that "they haven't given her a tracking number yet". What? How can it be on the Fedex truck without a tracking number? I get a long story about how Fedex picks up the tree and has to scan it and then they send BH the tracking number who then forwards it to me. Do they think I'm stupid? Balsam Hill is the one who initiates the tracking number and then Fedex comes to pick up the package! She tells me I will have my tracking number by the end of the day which, of course, never came. So now they are just lying to customers. I called customer service again this evening and this time I get Carlos (because you can never speak to the same person twice). I requested to cancel my order because I'm not going to wait another 2 days for my tree to possibly ship out and he informs me that my order cannot be cancelled. I speak to him for over 20 minutes only for him to tell me there is nothing he can do for me. My only recourse is to wait for the tree to be delivered, call them for a return authorization and then pay $25 PER CARTON to return it! I told him it's not fair that I have to pay ANY money to return it when they are not abiding by their own business practices! What happens next? He puts me on hold to speak to his supervisor and he hangs up on me! Guess he got tired of telling me he couldn't do anything for me. Word of mouth...I will tell everyone that will listen what a crap company this is! Oh yes...the website also displays a map that shows transit time to my state is 1 day...that is until customer service told me that it takes anywhere from 5-7 business days! Can you say MISREPRESENTATION?!?!

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Alice_Hughes
Redwood City, US
Mar 04, 2014 12:20 am EST
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Hi tinkodaat349, please accept our apologies for any delay this has caused. Please send us your Order ID through social@balsamhill.com so we can review your account details and follow up on your refund. Thank you.

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tinkodaat349
Pitman, US
Feb 28, 2014 6:41 am EST

It has been over 60 days since I returned the unopened box with the tree. I had buyers remorse the next day and emailed a cancellation but they said it was too late to cancel. I have the 50 bucks shipping being taken out but am still waiting for my half grand refund. I thought I could cancel within 3 days and emailed them about that but they sent me a form letter citing the exception to the 3 day refund law. They told me I have to wait for them to examine the tree for possible damage before I can have my money. I never unpacked it as I said so they are just dragging their feet and making interest on my money. Do not buy from this company.

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balsamhillsucks
Rye, GB
Dec 21, 2010 6:21 pm EST
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

This is one of the worst e-commerce retailers out there. They just don't care about their products or their customers. I spent $2000 on a 12' tree from Balsam Hill. It arrived defective and has continuous lighting problems. This year more than 2000 out of the 4000 light bulbs do not work. Balsam Hill just says, oh well, you have to do maitenence now and again. The tree was bought at the end of 2009. Its in its second season this year. Balsam Hill is full of excuses and promises to call you back or send spare parts. Its all false promises. Once they have your money they just don't care. The Better Business Bureau shows dozens of complaints about Balsam Hill. Actually, all you have to do is Google the words "Balsam Hill Complaint" or "Balsam Hill Reviews" and you will find hundreds of unhappy customers. One customer has a dedicated web site called www.balsamhillsucks.com ! Please, do not but a Christmas tree from Balsam Hill. It will be the worst experience you have. Its a shame the recession didn't wipe-out this shady outfit!

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squeakysquirrel
san francisco, US
Oct 27, 2009 8:10 pm EDT

Ive personally set up several of these trees and know that these trees look great...As long as you spruce up the trees first. This means use the gloves (provided in the box), and fluff and shape the branches. This is a little work the first time you set up the tree, but the sebsequent years are much easier. Ive given these trees as gifts, and everyone who gets them likes them. I also own a vermont white spruce and havent had any problems with it either. I think if anything its your expectation that this artificial christmas tree should sing and dance too. Well, sorry to pop your bubble...its just an artificial christmas tree (although much nicer than their competitions), so lower your expectations.

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