In today’s fast-paced world, we’ve become accustomed to instant gratification. But when it comes to custom-built signage, things work a little differently. Whether you’re a seasoned sign buyer or partnering with a wholesale sign manufacturer for the first time, understanding what goes into a one-off project can help you plan more effectively—and avoid surprises.
Here’s what you need to know when ordering from a custom sign manufacturer.
Expectations for Partnering with a Wholesale Sign Manufacturer
1. Custom Signs Aren’t “Off-the-Shelf” Products
We live in a world where everything from groceries to furniture can be delivered within hours. But custom signs? That’s a different story.
As a wholesale sign manufacturer, we don’t keep finished goods in stock. Every order is made from scratch—engineered, fabricated, and finished specifically for you. This means longer lead times and sometimes, unexpected delays due to:
- Labor shortages
- Equipment malfunctions
- Supply chain interruptions
Each custom-manufactured piece is one-of-a-kind. That’s the beauty—and the challenge—of custom sign manufacturing.
2. Review Your Order Confirmation Carefully
Before a wholesale sign manufacturer enters production, it’s always important to double-check the Order Confirmation. It should match your understanding of the project, down to the smallest detail. We often have detailed conversations back and forth during the quoting process, and misunderstandings can happen.
Keep in mind: Once you approve the final specs, a wholesale sign manufacturer like Hanson Signs will build exactly what you sign off on—and you own it at that point. Custom work is not returnable like stock items, so alignment upfront is critical.
3. Estimated Ship Dates Are Just That—Estimates
Most wholesale sign manufacturers like Hanson Signs aim to hit their quoted ship dates, and they should be measuring their performance weekly. However, several factors can affect timing:
- High workload or production bottlenecks
- Illness or turnover in staff
- Machine downtime
- Supplier issues
We always recommend waiting to schedule installations until your wholesale signs arrive and have been inspected. This protects your team from costly wasted trips.
4. Freight Quotes Are Not Set in Stone
Want a freight estimate with your Purchase Order? No problem—we’re happy to provide one. But please remember:
- Freight quotes are estimates, not guarantees.
- Rates fluctuate, sometimes by as much as 25%.
- Final cost may vary depending on route changes and fuel surcharges.
Be sure to note if a lift gate is required. If it’s not included in the order and the carrier charges the wholesale sign manufacturer, then that cost of business will most likely be passed on to you.
5. Overlength and Residential Charges Can Add Up
Oversized items—like channel letter raceways—can trigger steep overlength shipping fees. Whenever possible, ask your wholesale sign manufacturer to build in sections under 8 feet to save on cost. Also, be aware of your delivery address classification:
- Even if you consider it a commercial space, the freight carrier may not.
- Does your facility have a loading dock or a driveway suitable for a large truck?
- Residential or limited access locations can lead to extra fees.
Clarifying these details upfront helps avoid unexpected charges on your end.
6. Inspect Upon Delivery—Every Time
When your custom wholesale sign order arrives:
- Inspect it immediately, before the driver leaves.
- Train staff to note any damage or concerns on the delivery paperwork. Damage must be noted on the delivery documentation, even if it is the smallest hole in the packaging.
- Never refuse the shipment—we may be able to correct an issue locally. If damaged, accepted with noted damage.
If damage isn’t noted, carriers will assume the sign arrived in perfect condition. Since we package and ship in good faith, repairs or replacements would then be your responsibility, not ours.
Quick story for you… We (at Hanson Sign) once had video evidence of a sign package coming off a delivery truck with forklift holes in it. The sign had split in half upon further inspection. The package was signed for, but no damage was noted. Therefore, the logistics company would not pay for it. Let’s learn from this: ALWAYS note damage before signing for a package. You never know if the product is going to incur damage along the way.
7. Open Crates Before Installation Day
Before your install team hits the road:
- Open all crates
- Check for missing parts, mounting hardware, and installation patterns
- Inspect your custom sign for hidden damage
Your installers’ time is valuable. Many sign projects require travel, and discovering issues at the job site wastes time and money. Please help us help you avoid that.
8. Store Signs Properly if Not Installing Right Away
Storing newly arrived custom signs matters. Here’s why:
- NEW custom signs should not be left wrapped in plastic in hot environments, especially during summer.
- Paint needs days to cure fully; heat and humidity trapped inside crates can blister and ruin finishes.
Wholesale sign manufacturers don’t warranty this kind of damage. If you inspect the same day it arrives, you’re covered. If you wait a week or more, the responsibility may shift to you.
9. Handle Your Dimensional HDU, Cedar, and Extira Signs With Care
Wood and HDU signs are sensitive materials:
- Never lean them unpackaged against a wall
- Store them flat and support them evenly
- Use proper mounting hardware to prevent warping
Large wholesale custom signs especially need attention to avoid damage while waiting for installation.
Final Thoughts: A Partnership for Success
Custom wholesale signs require a team effort. When you choose a wholesale sign manufacturer, you’re not just buying a product—you’re entering a partnership. Clear communication, realistic expectations, and a little preparation can go a long way toward ensuring a smooth, cost-effective project.
Whether you’re a sign company ordering for a client or a reseller growing your wholesale sign sales, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
If you have questions about your next custom sign project, let’s talk!
Wholesale Sign Manufacturing Partner Checklist Download
