Custom Hardware Process

Designing and Producing a Custom Hardware Product

If you are considering asking D. Lawless Hardware to help you design and produce a new and unique product or to tweak a product you are already using to better fit your requirements, here is some general information regarding the process.

  • The first thing to consider is lead time. We can get it for you as fast as possible, but you save money if you can wait on sea cargo.
  • Tooling costs vary, but typically run around $1,000 for items like screws, metal clips, etc. For die cast hardware products such as knobs and pulls expect a cost of $1,400 or more. Tooling is a one time charge.
  • A sample is required if duplicating an antique piece of hardware or if you are modifying and existing piece of hardware. Otherwise a CAD drawing, preferably 3D is required.
  • Minimum production runs are usually 2,000 to 5,000 pieces PER FINISH depending on the size and value of the item.
  • Packaging is typically unmarked poly bag, sealed, with screws. Or open bag bulk pack.
  • Tooling costs are required to be paid at the time the order is placed. When tooling is completed, production samples will be sent for your approval.
  • Upon approval of the samples, we will ask for an advance payment for a portion of the total cost. You will know what this amount will be early in the process, so no surprises.
  • If the item is to be proprietary (for you only) the advance payment may be in excess of 50%. If we see any potential in the item, and you are okay with D. Lawless selling the product, we may reduce the minimum quantities and reduce the amount of advancement as we can subsidize these costs by selling the item to others (hopefully).
  • Our preference at this time is to produce in Taiwan and/or Vietnam.
  • We have been doing this on a regular basis for decades. We have solid relationships with producers and have always experienced quality consistent with samples furnished. There are several moving parts to this process and we stand in the middle to assure that you receive what you specified and approved.