If you own an apartment or know someone who does, chances are they go to the store or mall when they need to make a purchase.
Now imagine a store where every chess set, clock, board, piece, and book lives under one digital roof. That place is Chess House.
Whatever tools you need to learn, play and enjoy the game of chess, Chess House aims to be your one-stop shop.
We’ll guide you step by step: how to browse, pick, order, and use Chess House effectively.
What Is Chess House?
Chess House is an online retailer that specializes in chess equipment and accessories.
Their product lines include:
- Chess sets: Wooden, plastic, themed, tournament, and so much more
- Boards and playing surfaces: Hardwood boards, foldable, storage boards.
- Pieces: Replacement pieces, specialty sets.
- Electronics: Chess clocks, electronic chess games, and software.
- School and club supplies, books, bags, cases, awards, and much more.
They also accept purchase orders from schools and institutions, and they ship internationally to many countries.
Their main warehouse is located in Lynden, Washington (USA).
They offer features such as a “100% Delighted Guarantee,” easy replacement parts, and safe shipping.
Navigating the Chess House Website
When you visit chesshouse.com, here’s how to move around:
Main Navigation Bar
You’ll see menu sections like Chess Sets, Supplies, Electronics, Interests, and Store.
Categories and Filters
Under each section, subcategories break products down further (e.g., Wooden Chess Sets, Travel Chess Sets, Themed Sets)
Search Box
You can type what you’re looking for (e.g., “Chess sets”, “Chess clock”) and hit search.
Product Pages
Click on a product to see images, specifications, price, shipping info, customer reviews, and “Add to Cart.”
Cart and Checkout
After selecting items, go to your cart, fill in shipping details, choose payment, and complete the purchase.
Account / Login
If you create an account, you can track orders, save addresses, and manage returns.
Support & Contact
There is a contact page with email, phone, and policies.
Blog / News
Chess House also publishes articles, updates, and chess stories.
How to Choose the Right Chess Equipment
Buying chess gear can be overwhelming. Here are practical tips when using Chess House:
1. Define Your Goal
It’s important to understand why you want a chess tool. Some goals include:
- Regular play: You want durability over looks.
- Collecting / decorative: You care about wood type, aesthetics, and uniqueness.
- School/club use: You need bulk, durability, and replaceable parts.
2. Match Board Size & Piece Size
Make sure your board’s square size fits the pieces. If the squares are too small, the pieces will crowd. Many users say boards like Chess House’s JLP hardwood line feel premium and solid.
3. Understand Materials
- Wood sets (maple, walnut, rosewood): classic, good feel, but more expensive.
- Plastic sets: more affordable, resilient, great for children or travel.
- Electronic/ Digital sets: for playing vs computer, online integration.
4. Shipping & Customs
If you are ordering to a country outside the U.S., check:
- Shipping cost (they subsidize some rates).
- Customs/duty in your country, possibly extra fees.
- Delivery time (international shipping can take weeks).
5. Replacement Parts & Returns
Chess House offers replacement parts for many sets.
They also have a return or guarantee policy.
6. Read Reviews & User Feedback
Before buying expensive items, read what other buyers say. For instance, forums show people praised Chess House’s travel sets and customer support.
One user on a Chess.com forum said:
“Chess House has good stuff … I have a couple of sets from them.”
A more detailed review of a board bought from Chess House noted:
“The wood feels very solid … the finish exceeded my expectations… the packaging was excellent.”
This kind of feedback helps you feel confident before purchase.
Step-by-Step: How to Place an Order
Here’s a practical walkthrough:
- Search / Browse: Use the menu or search box to find what you want (e.g., “wooden chess set”).
- Filter and Sort: Apply filters (price range, material) to narrow options.
- Product Page: Click a product, examine images, specs. The dimensions, weight, and material.
- Check Shipping Options: Before adding to cart, estimate shipping to your address.
- Add to Cart: Choose quantity. If ordering multiples, look for bulk discounts.
- Review Cart: Confirm item names, quantities, and shipping costs.
- Checkout: Enter shipping address, select payment method: cards, PayPal, etc.
- Order Confirmation: You should receive an email confirmation with tracking info.
- Wait & Track: Monitor shipment, be ready for customs or import paperwork.
If you’re local or traveling through their region, they allow pickup from the warehouse.
Tips & Tricks to Use Chess House Better
- Use “Open Box / Clearance” Section: You may find discounts or sets with small blemishes at reduced prices.
- Watch for Coupons & Deals: Signing up for their newsletter may give you discounts.
- Bulk Orders & Schools: If you represent a club or school, ask about purchase orders and institutional discounts.
- Read Return / Guarantee Terms: Always know the conditions for returns and replacement parts.
- Reach Customer Service: They seem responsive. A reviewer noted that their customer service was very fast.
Common Questions & Issues
Is Chess House trustworthy?
Yes. It has been around for many years and offers a wide, specialized catalog. Many users praise their reliability and customer service.
How is the board quality?
High, especially with their hardwood lines. A user who bought a board said the finish and wood exceeded expectations.
Do they ship internationally?
Yes, they ship worldwide, to over 130 countries.
What about returns or damaged items?
They provide replacement parts for many sets. But read their specific return policy for each region.
Is the website easy to use?
Yes. The navigation is clear, product categories are well organized, and checkout is straightforward.
Who Should Use Chess House?
- Beginners who are looking for starter sets that last.
- Schools & Clubs that need multiple boards/pieces and bulk options.
- Collectors seeking fine hardwood boards, luxury sets, and themed pieces.
- Travelers who want lightweight, durable travel boards.
Final Thoughts
Chess House is more than just a store; it’s a hub for everyone who loves the chess world. Whether you want to buy a first chessboard for your child, outfit your school team, or add a luxurious wooden set to your collection, Chess House offers the tools and trust to make it happen.