Buying tires online for mobile installation

Some mobile installers fit customer-supplied tires, but approval is not automatic. Confirm the exact tires, vehicle, location, labor scope, and delivery plan with the installer before paying the seller. A retailer's fitment result and a shipping estimate do not confirm an installation appointment.

For example, Tread Connection's customer-supplied installation page, reviewed September 19, 2026, permits new tires in good condition but says it will not install used tires. This is a provider-specific policy, not a promise from every mobile service.

Keep seller approval separate from installer approval

Use this two-party checklist. An unanswered item stays unresolved; it is not included for free.

Decision	Ask the tire seller	Ask the mobile installer
Exact product	Confirm SKU, size, ratings, quantity, and condition	Approve that product for this vehicle
Availability	Confirm stock and shipment timing	State whether the appointment waits for delivery
Delivery destination	Confirm address and receiving requirements	Confirm whether direct delivery is accepted
Installation work	Identify any prepaid labor package	List mount, balance, valve, and TPMS work
A wrong or damaged tire	Explain return process and costs	Explain rejected-tire or wasted-visit terms
Aftercare	Identify product warranty contact	Identify workmanship and callback contact

Save both replies with the order confirmation. The goal is a complete handoff, not two independent purchases that each assume the other party has resolved a problem.

Confirm the fitment before placing the order

Provide the installer with the tire-size photo packet. Include front/rear differences and any wheel changes. Michelin's size guidance warns that the tires already on a used vehicle may not match the manufacturer's specification.

Do not approve a substitute product solely because the seller calls it equivalent. Ask for the revised SKU and get the installer's approval before shipment.

Receive the tires before treating the visit as ready

Compare every delivered tire with the order. Photograph the labels and any visible damage. Keep shipping and order records until the seller confirms that no return problem remains.

A delivered package can still contain the wrong item. If anything differs, ask the seller and installer what to do before mounting. Find out how installation affects the seller's return terms; do not assume a mounted tire can be returned.

If delivery is late, use the provider's rescheduling process. Do not book a firm visit based only on an estimated arrival date.

Get a labor quote that matches your purchase

List mounting and balancing, the mobile visit, disposal if requested, valve work, and any TPMS diagnosis, relearn, or replacement. Ask which items are included and which need inspection. Do not assume supplying tires means sensors must also be replaced.

Use the quote checker to compare the completed job, not the tire price alone. For responsibility after installation, use the warranty checklist.

What about take-offs or used tires?

Disclose the condition accurately before you buy. Customer-supplied does not mean used tires are accepted. See whether mobile installers fit used tires for that separate decision.

Ask for the installer acceptance in writing. This guide does not establish a final HopTire policy on used tires, third-party sellers, direct shipping, or TPMS support.

Sources and review date

• treadconnection.net/tire-installation/, accessed September 19, 2026.
• www.michelinman.com/auto/auto-tips-and-advice/tire-buying-guide/find-your-tire-size, accessed September 19, 2026.