I don't see my instrument/hardware on your cross-reference. How can I know what case will fit?
While we do strive to keep our information as up to date as possible, new instruments are being released every day and may not be on our list. As well, The number of vintage instruments now available can far outstrip our ability to keep up with them. Please use our “Search By Dimension” tool or contact us via the Suggest a Manufacturer page with the dimensions of your instrument and we will try our best to find something that meets your needs.
What are 'TSA' latches?
The Transportation Safety Administration sets the guidelines for all luggage brought onto flights into, out of, and within the United States. A TSA latch has a special lock that TSA inspectors can access to perform their inspections. This allows you to keep your cases safely locked when traveling.
What does 'TSA' stand for?
“TSA” stands for Transportation Safety Administration. These are the men and women that inspect you and your luggage as you move through the airport. Because of TSA regulations all checked luggage, including instrument cases, must be left unlocked unless equipped with TSA-approved latches.
I want to use a Gator case for a different purpose than is listed. Is this possible?
Gator Cases encourages creative uses for our products. As long as you’re not doing anything that would void the warranty, go ahead! If it’s a really cool idea, send us a picture and we may feature you in our gallery!
Can you make a custom case?
Gator Cases offers custom cut drum and percussion cases. Just ask your local Gator dealer for more information!
I saw a picture of your case on another website and it looks different. What gives?
The internet is a big place and sometimes pictures do persist even after we have redesigned a particular model. For the most up-to-date images, please refer to GatorCases.com
I want to become a Gator dealer. How do I do that?
If you are looking to re-sell Gator products in your retail or online storefront, please submit a Dealer Request.
My band wants to be endorsed by Gator Cases. Do you offer artist endorsements?
We are accepting endorsement requests via our Info Line, please be sure to include you or your bands website, contact information, and link to electronic press kit (if available). Once your request is submitted it will be sent to our Artist Relations Manager for review.
I bought my gator case from a friend, is it still under warranty?
Gator Cases warranty only covers cases bought directly from an authorized dealer. Cases bought used or from an unauthorized reseller are not covered under the Gator Cases warranty program.
How long is the warranty on my Gator case?
Gator Cases provides a limited lifetime warranty against defects on all our cases. This means that if you are the original owner and have a defect in your case, we will fix or replace it at our cost. If you have had your case for less than 30 days, Gator Cases will take care of all shipping, repair, or replacement costs. If you have had the case for more than 30 days, we will ask that you ship the case to us at your expense.
What does Limited lifetime warranty mean?
“Limited” refers to what our warranty covers, i.e. Defects. All damage caused by normal wear and tear, abuse, or other factors introduced after the case has been sold will be not covered under warranty, though we may be able to repair your case for a reasonable sum.
What is 'normal wear and tear'?
This refers to the average amount of wear on a particular case during a particular period of time. Our repair technicians are highly trained to determine whether damage to a case is due to a defect in it’s manufacturing or just the normal wear that occurs from using the case in its intended purpose. As well, We will always give the benefit of the doubt to the customer in any case where the circumstances are not clear.
I lost my warranty card. Can I still be covered under warranty?
You absolutely can. We will need some sort of proof of purchase though. Luckily, with the advances in computer technology, most retailers these days can keep a record of your purchases in case you need a copy of the receipt in the future. Please check with your retailer to determine if they offer this service.
How can I get replacement parts for my case(s)?
Replacement parts are handled in the same manner as all other warranty requests. Please fill out our Warranty Claim Form and we will provide the parts as soon as we are able to.
What is a 'shock' rack?
Gator Shock Racks are equipped with a floating suspension system that provides 360-degrees of air ventilation and acts as a shock absorber, keeping your equipment safe from jostles and bumps.
What are the current regulations regarding traveling on an airplane with a musical instrument?
The rule requires that each U.S. carrier subject to this regulation allow a passenger to carry into the cabin and stow a small musical instrument, such as a violin or a guitar, in a suitable baggage compartment, such as the overhead bin or a closet, or under the seats, in accordance with FAA safety regulations and the carrier’s FAA-approved carry-on baggage program. For complete information on this topic, click here to view the official briefing from the US Department of Transportation.
What does ATA stand for, and why is it important?
ATA stands for the Air Transport Association. What it means in a nutshell is, a case with an ATA rating is safe to travel with and be checked on an airplane. A more formal definition would state that each ATA rated case is tested to simulate 100 common carrier (air, land, sea) shipments. All normal and expected rough handling environments are taken into consideration, such as dropping from a height of 36″ or vibration created from traveling in the belly of an airplane or in the bed of a truck traveling down at highway at 70 mph. However, ATA specs DO NOT cover mishandling or improper use, say if the case falls out of the back of a truck, lands in the middle of a busy highway, then is tossed off the road and lands into a river, floats downstream, then is struck by lightning. ATA specs won’t do much in a situation like this, so lets hope you are never faced with such a horrible turn of events!
