Ask for a deposit on custom items?

[Former_Member]

Hi, all:

I don't ordinarily do custom items, but I've been asked to do seven of the same boxes for groomsmen gifts. The deadline isn't until September so I can easily fill the order.

My question is, do you ask for a deposit on custom items? If so, do you make a listing for it, or is there a better way?

Thanks! Maryka

[Former_Member]

Hi, i think you should as for a deposit, and make a special listing for it, you should ask at least for 50% if not for the total amount.

[Former_Member]

At minimum ask for a 50% non-refundable deposit to cover cost of materials. I actually require full payment up front. I make the reserve listing for the full price and do not start production until the listing has been purchased. I haven't had any complaints yet, but my turnaround on jewelry is pretty quick and even a large order isn't usually a HUGE amount of money.

[Former_Member]

I do exactly what michelle does. i ask for 100% up front and have a quick turnaround time. keeps the looky-loos from backing out at the last minute.

[Former_Member]

I regret not taking some type of payment for a banner I had to go to the store and buy new paper for. not smart on my part at all, she never responded to any of my emails or convos. I'm glad my materials are too expensive.

[SewWriteCreations]

I LOVE custom orders and that's really where I have the most creative fun, too! I started out not asking for deposits, and thank Goodness, never had a problem....but, when the orders got more & more costly, I created a listing that SAID it was a deposit, and spelled out the terms of the order and how much would be due upon completion. Once the deposit listing was paid, I'd start production (or purchase supplies, as the case might be), then when I had the item ready to ship, I'd create the Balance Due listing, including the shipping (and insurance, if necessary) & send that link.

Once that final listing was completed, I'd ship the item(s). No complaints so far! Good luck!

[LUSCIOUSLEATHERNYC]

I always ask for deposit and I make it clear its a non refundable deposit
but most of the time I make them pay the full amount up front.

[Former_Member]

I would definitely ask for at least a deposit, if not full payment.

[Former_Member]

I agree with Aixa --

If you aren't going to ask for the full amount, then make sure you ask for a deposit that is non-refundable.

If they were to (God forbid) back out, you still need paid for supplies and time spent up to that point, and hopefully you would still be able to sell it to someone else later.

[Whimsicalheartstring]

Pretty much all my work is custom or personalized. They pay in full in advance every time!

[KLKingDesigns]

I NEVER work without a minimum 50% to full payment. The one time I started purchasing supplies prior to the actual sale, was when she communicated to me she had to collect the money from a group. I got started, since the item had a time element. But, it was something I wanted to make up some stock for. So, I was still nervous until that reserved listing had been paid for.
But, even in custom Work, face to Face, for 30 years the standing Policy has always been 50% Non-Refundable deposit. Always make the terms very clear, do not assume the person will review your policies. It is best to send a detailed statement , telling the customer what to expect from you~with the actual bid, so there is no confusion later.

[Former_Member]

I Have asked for a small non refundable deposit to make sure they are serious. Then I send a mock up of my design and after approval of terms I post the remaining balance amount...they purchase it and I begin production. So far so good! Knock on wood...

[ThompsonGirl]

I would ask for the total amount.... should say, I always ask for the total amount. This is a big commitment of time and materials and they will understand.

[Former_Member]

I usually create a separate listing for the customer and ask that they purchase the listing before I can begin. I price the listing for the entire amount to be charged so they pay full price. Otherwise, I'm out if they suddenly change their mind or find something else they'd rather have. They've seen your work, they know what to expect. Good luck!

[Former_Member]

I always get the full amount before I begin.

[MyriamPowellDesigns]

Yes, I always ask for full amount at front. It's easier that way. It's also a good idea if your are going to do custom work to add all the info in your policies.

[Former_Member]

I also do custom orders, I make a listing and have full payment before doing the order and try to get it out quickly to keep my customer happy.

[Former_Member]

I would ask for full payment...you set up the custom listing and they would need to pay for it in full before you start working. I think it's best so that you can cover any expenses and that way the customer does not back out. :)

[Former_Member]

Thank you all for your advice!

[Former_Member]

I do a lot of custom orders and will only accept 100% up front. Never had any complaints.

[Former_Member]

YES! I ask for payment up front and non-refundable! Especially with weddings. I have worked in the wedding industry for 10 years and all the time see brides who change their colors last minute, party members, and sadly weddings called off. Many things can happen before September :)

[Former_Member]

I think I've decided for sure to ask for 100% up front. The problem is he wants seven boxes all the same, and I'm having some trouble finding that many. I may have to turn down the order because of that.

I also think I'll stick to my "no custom orders" policy in the future. This is way too stressful!