Questions About Ordering

Q: Why did my special instructions delay my order?

In short, because we have questions and don't want to guess about the instructions. We DO encourage our customers to let us know ANYTHING they want changed from what they designed online. Might as well, everything is custom anyways. You should have it made just the way you want. Plus, we love to design. And we love working with our customers coming up with unique designs just the way they imagine. It is the most fun part of our day. Still there are challenges. When a customer gives special instructions on their order on what to change, 90% of the time the instructions are very easy to understand. But about 10% of the time, there is some 'wiggle room' in exactly what they intended to convey. Sure, we probably know what they mean, but if the instructions can be taken more than one way, well it leaves us guessing a bit. Do we guess and get the order to production right away? Or do we send a proof and delay the order? Sometimes the designers are a bit backed up with design work on large orders. The delay could be a few days. What to do? Guessing is a problem, because if we guess wrong, 10% of the time we will be redoing the order. Nobody wants that! The answer? 1. Be clear and specific in any special instructions (don't give us any wiggle room) 2. Be prepared that special instructions can cause a delay in your order's production

Q: Do you accept Purchase Orders from municipals?

Yes, we'd love to have your business. How to order? Simply add your items to the shopping cart, just like normal. But instead of checking out online, print out the "cart" and mail this to us along with your Purchase Order. Be sure to add the shipping desired to cover standard shipping cost. Mail PO to: SignSpecialist.com 105 Ruth Ann Lane Broadway, NC 27505 Your invoice with PO number will mail with your order. Net 30. If you have any questions let us know. Have another question about decals, signs, lettering, or stripes?

Q: Why do you first answer return phone calls by email or text?

Good question. First, this is efficient. Most questions have already been asked before by another customer and a page like the one you are reading has probably been created that answers the concern or question. Our reply email will likely include a link to a page a lot like this one. "Efficient" is good because this enables us to have the highest quality product at the very best price. We know some really just want to talk to someone on the phone. But if this mental hurdle can be leaped, most come to embrace communicating by email or text. But, there is another good reason to communicate by email or text. We get dozens of calls everyday where the customer does not know what they want, and just want to "talk it out" and try to figure out what will be best to order. Verbally, there is not much we can do besides provide a listening ear. The old saying is true: "a picture is worth a thousand words". Yes, by email we can do a lot more than just "talk it out". By email we can provide visual references to what may be the answer to questions like: How big will it be? or What color would look best? or Should I get this one?, etc... For "nailing down" a design or concept, the written word is much better than a verbal conversation. Email and texting is even better, since pictures can also be shared. While it is more work, especially for those that are verbal in nature or hate texting, make the effort, send us an email about your question or concern, and, in the end, you will find the initial "trouble" well worth the effort. Have another question about decals, signs, lettering, or stripes?

Q: When I track my package sent by way of the Post Office, I don’t see any information?

Detailed Customer Question When I track my package at the Post Office, I get this: The U.S. Postal Service was electronically notified by the shipper or shipping partner on June 08, 2024 to expect your package for mailing. Information, if available, is updated every evening. Please check again later. Why does the tracking information not show? Good Question! The Post Office use to scan the packages at each point along the way to delivery. But because of budget concerns, they now only scan the package at the final spot (the "Postman" scans the barcode when delivering the package). So result will only show when delivered. This is the reason, they explain, they call the 'tracking' 'Delivery Confirmation' instead of 'Tracking'. Related link at the Post Office site that give more detail: Post Office Frequently Asked Questions Have another question about decals, signs, lettering, or stripes?

Q: Who gets tracking numbers?

Good question. The short answer is almost everyone. But a few do not. First, our standard international mailing is through the US Post Office. So no tracking is available with out-of-country mailing. Also, those that select UPS (United Postal Service) delivery - either with Next Day Air or regular ground - do not get an automated email with tracking. However, tracking is available. You just need to email us the request after you order. Finally, Glasscapes, Image Quest, AutoTrim Express, and Fas Graphics are all sent out UPS (United Postal Service) even if the cheaper postage option is selected (tip for saving money), so again, an automated tracking email from the US Post Office is not available but the information can be emailed on request after you order. Have another question about decals, signs, lettering, or stripes?

Q: Do you offer quantity discount pricing?

It depends on the product. On products we make - always. On products that we have selected because of their high quality to resell, sadly... no. The prices on these items are already as low as we can go. Why do we offer discount pricing on the products we make (and not just offer the lower pricing to start with)? Answer: it takes almost the same amount of time to produce 1 of something as it does 10. So the overall time spent on each item is much less when large quantities are ordered. So we gladly pass this saving on to the customer. How much of a discount? This is where it gets complicated. It really is a job by job calculation. Some smaller more detailed decals and lettering take a lot of time for each one. So really not much time is saved on each item - even if a lot are ordered. But on other items, we offer up to a 50% discount. Another variable figured into the discount is size. Some sizes are very wasteful on material - leaving a lot of scrap - and room for discount pricing. Other sizes are not wasteful at all - not leaving much room for discount pricing. NOTE: We don't like waste. Many customers can attest that sometimes they get more than they ordered. If the material is going to be wasted, we'll 'nest' another 'extra' item and 'throw it in' with the order. Because of this variable (size), quantity discounts can vary a lot from job to job. I know this doesn't offer the answer most are looking to receive. Most would like something standard: order 5 or more get 10% off, order 10 or more get 15% off - or something similar. But don't worry. If you are thinking of ordering a large quantity, email us your details (sizes, colors, item number, etc...) and we'll quickly figure your discount. Have another question about decals, signs, lettering, or stripes?

Q: Do I have to go through the order process if I’ve ordered before?

Detailed Customer Question A few months ago I ordered from you, can you just send the same thing again and just charge my card? Or do I have to go through the order process again? It would be nice if you could just drop an email to us and skip the ordering process. A couple of points that makes this a 'no go'. First, we don't have any credit card numbers on file. To insure security, the ordering process is completely automated. This normally is a very good thing. But it does mean we can not manually create a ticket and charge your card. (Also for your security, never send credit card information by email. While you may trust us, that is not the concern. All the computers that route your email between your computer and ours are not secure with a simple email transmission. Again, never send credit card information by email.) Also, because of the "p's and q's"* nature of this business, it really is best to go through the ordering process. (p's and q's = so many things to get just right - or that we could get just a little wrong - ie p's and q's are very similar). For instance, if the mailing address is just a little wrong, it will cause needless waste of time and postage. Or, regarding the actual decal, stripe, sign, etc..., there are so many details to get just right - color, size, quantity, options, etc... that it really is best to take the time and be sure to get it the way you want. What may help on this is: your old order. If you no longer have access to it (threw away paper invoice, deleted email invoice from your inbox), no worries. Let us know, we'll look it up and email it to you. You can then use this as a guide when placing your order. Have another question about decals, signs, lettering, or stripes?

Q: What happens if I order the wrong size / color/ item? Get my money back?

Since all work is custom, we strongly encourage you to give careful attention when placing your order. Your order is custom made just for you. It could not be 'restocked' and later resold to anyone else. We strive to achieve fast turnaround on all orders. If you make a mistake, email us right away. We may be able to change your order before production begins. However, keep in mind, most orders mail out the same day ordered. If your custom order is made, but then your realize something should have been different..... this is very sad (since a custom made order could not be resold to anyone else). We don't like to send out products that wont work - even if they are made how they were requested. On the other hand, we can not absorb all mistakes. Keeping in mind we are a small family run business, we simply can not make it again for free. Nobody wants to work for free. Then when you add the extra material and shipping spent, well, frankly, that would not be fair. What can we do? All that we can. This may mean a reduced price on sending out the corrected item. So again, please, pay careful attention when placing your order. And if you have any questions please let us know right away. Have another question about decals, signs, lettering, or stripes?

Q: What size should I order?

This is a very common question. We really wish there was some kind of an algorithm that could be entered in for the answer. When it comes right down to it, nothing can replace the opinion of the customer. We can give some input, but could never answer, what really is a very personal question. Let's illustrate with windshield lettering. Some customers want little 'tiny' lettering in the middle of the windshield (but some customers would say even what they picked is to big) others want it to stretch all the way across from one end to another. Which is 'right'? Which looks better? Completely a personal viewpoint. There is no wrong answer. What looks best depends completely on what you like. And well, maybe family and friends - so you may want to get their opinion. This same principle applies to other areas where size is a question (signs, decals, stripes, etc...). What to do? The best answer is: go find a tape measure . And then spend some time giving some careful thought to what you will like. Still having a hard time deciding? Email us, we can help some, in that we can let you know what others have ordered. Have another question about decals, signs, lettering, or stripes?

Q: Can I mail in an order with a personal check or money order? If so, how?

Yes, we'd love to have your business. How to order? Simply add your items to the shopping cart, just like normal. But instead of checking-out online, print out the 'cart' and mail this to us along with your check or money order. Be sure to add $4.95 shipping to cover standard shipping cost. Have another question about decals, signs, lettering, or stripes?

Question 1

Can I mail in an order with a personal check or money order? If so, how?

Answer

Yes, you can mail an order with a personal check or money order. Add the desired items to the online shopping cart, print the cart contents, and mail it along with your payment and $4.95 for standard shipping to the company’s address.

Question 2

Can you mail me a Catalog?

Answer

The company does not offer a printed catalog because their online selection of over 26,000 decals changes too rapidly to keep a physical catalog accurate. Customers are encouraged to use the search function on the website to find specific items or to contact the company directly for assistance in locating a particular design.

Question 3

Do I have to go through the order process if I've ordered before?

Answer

Yes, you must go through the online ordering process for every new order, even if you have ordered before. The company does not store credit card numbers for security reasons, and the automated system requires a new transaction to process payment. Additionally, re-ordering online ensures that all custom details, sizes, and shipping addresses are accurately confirmed for the new order.

Question 4

Do you accept Purchase Orders from municipals?

Answer

Yes, the company accepts purchase orders from municipalities. To order, add the items to the online shopping cart, print the cart contents, and mail it along with the purchase order and appropriate shipping costs to the company’s address in Broadway, NC. The invoice with the PO number will be included with the order, and payment terms are Net 30.

Question 5

Do you offer quantity discount pricing?

Answer

Quantity discounts are available for custom-made products but not for pre-made distributed items. The discount amount varies by job, depending on the time saved in production and the efficiency of material usage based on the size of the decals. Customers planning to order in large quantities should email their specific details to receive a custom discount calculation.

Question 6

How do I add more than one item to the shopping cart?

Answer

To add multiple items to your cart, simply navigate to the desired product category after adding your first item. If you are ordering a different type of product, use the navigation links at the top of the cart to find it. If you are ordering more of the same product, use your browser’s back button to return to the previous page and add the next item to the existing cart.

Question 7

How long does Priority Mail take to ship to my address?

Answer

Most orders are processed and shipped the same business day they are placed. The delivery time for Priority Mail depends on your location relative to the shipping origin. You can estimate the delivery time by checking the Post Office’s Priority Mail delivery map and entering the company’s shipping zip code to see the transit times for your specific zone.

Question 8

How long does UPS Ground take to ship to my address?

Answer

Orders are typically shipped the same business day they are placed. The delivery time for UPS Ground depends on your location relative to the shipping origin. You can estimate the delivery time by checking the UPS Ground delivery map on the company’s website or by using the UPS map tool and entering the company’s shipping zip code to calculate the transit time.

Question 9

How to Buy and Redeem a Gift Certificate?

Answer

Digital gift certificates can be purchased online and customized with a personal message. To redeem, enter the code from the emailed certificate at checkout, and the balance will be automatically applied to your order. Gift certificates never expire, can be combined with other payment methods, and balances under $10 can be redeemed for cash upon request.

Question 10

I keep calling and can't get through on your phone. Why?

Answer

The company is predominantly an internet-based business and handles most initial contact via email or text to maintain efficiency and accuracy. Phone lines can be busy due to high call volumes and spam. If you cannot get through, leave a message, and they will return your call, but they strongly encourage using email for order inquiries to ensure all details are correctly recorded.

Question 11

Porch Pirates! Will you refund my money or make it again for free?

Answer

The company cannot offer free replacements or refunds for custom orders that are stolen by porch pirates or lost after being marked as delivered by the carrier. Because the items are custom-made and cannot be resold, the cost of remaking them cannot be absorbed. If your package is stolen, you should contact the police, and the company may offer a discount on a future order.

Question 12

What happens if I order the wrong size / color/ item? Get my money back?

Answer

Because all work is custom-made and cannot be resold, full refunds are not provided for customer errors regarding size, color, or item selection. If the mistake is caught immediately, the company may be able to alter the order before production begins. If the item is already produced, they may offer a replacement at a reduced price, but they cannot absorb the full cost of remaking the order for free.

Question 13

What size should I order?

Answer

Choosing the correct size is a highly personal decision, and there is no universal formula to determine the perfect fit. It is recommended to use a tape measure to visualize the dimensions in the intended space and consider the opinions of family or friends. If you are still unsure, you can email the company to find out what sizes other customers have ordered for similar applications.

Question 14

When I track my package sent by way of the Post Office, I don't see any information?

Answer

Due to budget constraints, the Post Office no longer scans packages at every transit point; they only scan them upon final delivery. As a result, tracking information will not update until the package is actually delivered by the mail carrier. This service is officially referred to as Delivery Confirmation rather than active tracking.

Question 15

Who gets tracking numbers?

Answer

Almost all customers receive automated tracking numbers, with a few exceptions. Standard international mail via the Post Office does not include tracking. Additionally, orders shipped via UPS and third-party distributed products do not receive automated Post Office tracking emails, though tracking information can be provided upon request via email.

Question 16

Why did my special instructions delay my order?

Answer

Special instructions can delay an order if they are ambiguous or open to multiple interpretations. To avoid guessing and potentially having to remake the order, the design team may pause production to send a proof for clarification. Providing clear, specific instructions without any wiggle room will help ensure your order goes straight to production without delay.

Question 17

Why do you first answer return phone calls by email or text?

Answer

The company prefers email or text communication because it is more efficient and allows them to provide visual references, such as pictures of sizes and colors, which are impossible to convey over the phone. Written communication also prevents misunderstandings and ensures that all details regarding custom designs are accurately documented and agreed upon by both parties.

Question 18

Why do you not take phone orders?

Answer

The company does not take phone orders to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and security. Taking orders over the phone increases the risk of errors in spelling addresses or mishearing credit card numbers. Online ordering allows for immediate verification of payment information and ensures that credit card numbers are encrypted and never handled directly by employees, providing a much higher level of security.

Question 19

Will my boat numbers be 3 inches?

Answer

The company will produce your boat numbers exactly to the size you order. If you ordered 3 inches, they will be 3 inches. While DOT regulations require numbers to be legible and at least 3 inches tall, enforcement officers are generally lenient regarding minor size variations or fonts with descending letters, so there is no need to stress as long as you ordered a reasonable size.

Question 20

Will you give a refund if I dont like it?

Answer

Refunds are issued for any product that arrives damaged, defective, or if the error was the company’s fault. However, because custom-made products cannot be resold, refunds or exchanges are not offered if you simply change your mind or dislike the final product, provided it was made to your exact specifications. Pre-made items from third-party manufacturers can be returned for a refund if you change your mind.