This page explains how shipping works for Signs of Metal custom laser-cut signs. Every piece is made to order — cut from steel, powder coated, packed for metal edges — then shipped from Indiana, USA. Timing has two parts: production (typically 1–2 business days), then carrier transit.
Where we ship from
Orders are produced and handed off to carriers in Indiana, United States. Checkout shows the shipping methods and prices available for your address.
How an order moves
- You order — You pick design, size, and finish, add personalization when the product allows it, and pay at checkout. You receive an order confirmation by email.
- We cut & finish — We laser-cut and powder-coat your sign. Typical production is 1–2 business days after your order is placed.
- We pack & hand off — We pack the sign for transit and hand it to UPS, USPS, or FedEx depending on your method and address. Carrier tracking is emailed when the package is scanned — not while it is still in production.
- It travels to you — Delivery speed depends on your location and whether you chose standard or expedited shipping at checkout.
Production timing
Production is typically 1–2 business days. There is usually no tracking number until we hand the package to the carrier — that is normal. Weekends are not counted as production days. If you need the sign by a hard date (event, install, or gift), contact us before ordering so we can confirm what is realistic with production plus transit.
Carriers & methods
- UPS (standard — primary) — Our first choice for most U.S. deliveries. Standard UPS transit is typically about 2–5 business days after hand-off, depending on distance.
- USPS — Used for addresses where UPS cannot deliver (for example some PO Boxes or locations UPS does not serve). We switch to USPS only when UPS is not available for that address.
- FedEx (expedited) — For expedited 2-day delivery when you choose that option at checkout. After production, FedEx 2-day aims for about two business days in transit.
The live options and prices at checkout for your address are always the final list.
Packing
Metal signs have edges and weight. We pack each piece to protect the powder-coated finish and the cut detail for transit. Keep the packaging until you have inspected the sign, in case you need photos for a damage remake.
Rates & addresses
Shipping options and costs calculate live at checkout. Use a complete street address whenever you can. UPS does not deliver to every PO Box — for those addresses we typically use USPS instead. You are responsible for providing an address where someone can receive the delivery.
Tracking
When the carrier scans your package, we email the tracking link (UPS, USPS, or FedEx). You can also use Order tracking or My Account → Orders if you have an account. Guest shoppers should keep the confirmation email — it has the order number we need to help.
Delays & paused scans
Carriers sometimes pause between scans. Wait for the next update before worrying. Weather, holidays, and peak seasons can add transit time after we hand the package off. If tracking has not moved for several days after the first scan, write us with your order number and we will look into it.
Damage or missing packages
If a sign arrives damaged, contact us within 30 days with clear photos of the sign and packaging plus your order number — we remake damage in transit for free. If tracking says delivered but you cannot find the box, check with neighbors, building staff, and the carrier, then contact us so we can help next steps.
International orders
Availability outside the USA depends on what checkout offers for your address. Duties, taxes, or customs forms (if any) follow carrier and destination rules shown at checkout or by the carrier.
Questions
Shipping questions: Contact us or see FAQ and Order tracking. Include your order number whenever you have one.