Guides for decision-makers

What to expect when you get a vending machine installed

Most people who ask for a vending machine have never had one installed before. The questions are usually the same: how much room does it need, what kind of outlet, how long does it take, and what do we actually have to do? Here's the plain version.

Step 1: The request and the call

It starts with a name, a company, and a zip code. A Route One manager calls or emails to confirm the location, your headcount or traffic, the space you have in mind, and which machine makes sense: a beverage machine, a snack machine, or a combo that does both in one footprint.

Step 2: Checking the space

This is the part that matters most, and it's quick. What we look at:

• Floor space. Full-size machines are roughly the size of a large refrigerator. Plan for the machine itself plus a few inches behind it for airflow.
• Power. A standard grounded wall outlet within reach of the machine, ideally not shared with a microwave or another high-draw appliance. No extension cords.
• A level, solid floor. Machines are heavy when stocked.
• The path in. Doorways, hallways, tight turns, stairs, and elevators between the loading point and the final spot. Measuring the narrowest doorway ahead of time avoids surprises on install day.
• Foot traffic. The best spot is where people already walk: the break room, near the time clock, by the ice machine, or near a waiting area.

If you're not sure, send a couple of phone photos of the spot and the path to it. That usually answers everything.

Step 3: Install day

Most locations are up and running within about a week of approval. A crew delivers the machine, sets it in place, levels it, plugs it in, and loads the first fill. Someone at the location just needs to let the crew in and show them the spot. You don't need to move furniture beyond clearing the path, and nothing gets billed to you.

Step 4: The first fill

The starting lineup is planned around your location type: a warehouse, a gym, an apartment building, and a hotel all start differently. If you want your team's input before day one, we can run a short employee survey so the first stocking reflects what people actually want.

Step 5: Ongoing restocking and service

• Restocks. Your machine joins a standing route, typically every one to two weeks, more often for high-traffic locations.
• Adjusting the mix. We track what sells and swap out slow movers on each restock.
• Repairs. Call or text and we'll get someone out, usually within a day or two. Parts and repairs are on us.
• Cleaning. The machine is kept clean as part of the route.

What you're responsible for

Honestly, not much: the space, the outlet, and letting us know if something's wrong. There's no equipment cost, no lease, and no invoice. We earn revenue from what sells through the machine, which is why keeping it full and working is on us.

Frequently asked questions

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