Choosing the Right Satellite TV Retailer

One of the most overlooked parts of signing up is selecting the right satellite TV retailer. Once you’ve decided which service you’re going with (DIRECTV or DISH), the next step is figuring out who’s going to manage the order, delivery and installation. Sure, you may luck out either way, but if you want to make sure everything goes smoothly, here’s what to look out for:

Ordering/Customer Service
Even with a satellite promo in hand, if you’re like me, you want to know ALL the facts and costs right up-front during your order…without the double-talk and confusion. There’s nothing worse than having to pull teeth just to get the basics. A good customer service agent will walk you through all your options and not suggest any services outside the scope of your discussion. Remember, you’re in charge and hold all the cards – if you’re not happy with how you’re being treated, you’re probably dealing with the wrong retailer.

Installation
Most satellite TV retailers (at the least the top ones) have a national team of qualified and certified installers. If you can’t book an installation date on or near the date you need, that may be a sign they’re not a top-flight organization. Come installation day, nearly every company will give you an installation window of when to expect their arrival. Yes, it’s annoying but necessary since installers usually book a few jobs every day and there’s no telling when a difficult install will arise. The good ones know communication is key. If they’re going to be late (or early), they’ll get in touch so you can plan your day accordingly. Tip: try to book an early morning appointment so you’re the first visit of their day; with less variables, you’ll usually wait less and get on with your day that much sooner.

Proper Billing
Once you’re up and running, the last major interaction you’ll have with your retailer is your first bill. If the discounts and specials you were promised aren’t included in your bill, it’s time to give them a call. Every so often mistakes happen and the top retailers will make it right (and then some). However, if you’re set aback by their ability to misremeber, unfortunately, you may be with a cut-rate retailer only concerned with lining their pockets. Since your account is active, take solace in the fact you can call up DIRECTV or DISH directly and usually get it straightened out.

As with any service industry, there are companies that just ‘get it’ and those that don’t. Over the years, we’ve worked with a vast majority of the retailers. Some come and go, others never arrive and the majority of the rest are just, well, average. We only recommend one satellite TV retailer for DIRECTV and one for DISH. Their customer feedback has to be exemplary with a track record of stellar (and domestic!) customer service. Click the appropriate box below to learn more about each retailer.