We have written blog posts before about creating and shipping large items at Sunriver Metal Works. Today’s blog is about a custom order where we really had to work to keep costs down.
Today we shipped our largest package yet. At 45″ wide x 70″ long x 2″ in height, it was just under the maximum girth by FedEx standards. During the design of the scripture, we calculated the estimated shipping costs and found it to exceed the girth maximum. Mike talked with the customer about reducing the size slightly. It meant the difference of $700 in shipping charges – freight versus ground.
Besides shipping an incredibly large item, this project had all kinds of firsts.
The customer wanted to use a specific font. They provided us with an example of the font they wanted to use. We used an online tool to identify the font and purchased it for the project.
It’s the largest single piece we’ve done to date – 69″ wide x 43.75″ high.
It took the longest clock time to cut out on the CNC machine – 60 minutes.
Due to its’ size, Mike created a framework on the back with steel square stock. This allowed it to be hung away from the wall and make the piece more rigid. This also helps keep the box rigid when shipping large items.
Patinas were applied outside of the shop – we’ve done a few this way due to size. The summer weather helps!
It took 2 hours to create the packing and shipping container. Mike’s son, Travis, was here on vacation and helped with the box.
The package weighed 71 pounds – our heaviest package yet.
Since this was being shipped to Tennessee, we knew FedEx would be the least expensive way to ship. The girth of the package determines whether something ships ground or freight. The FedEx website has great tools to help with shipping large items.
The package was dropped off at FedEx today and should be in Tennessee by next Monday. Another project of firsts for Sunriver Metal Works!
Mailing custom metal word art can be a challenge!