Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Welcome to our FAQ page! Here you’ll find answers to the most common questions about ordering custom metal signs from Gstdb.

📦 Ordering & Products

What types of metal signs do you make?

We specialize in custom, personalized metal signs including:

Family name signs and monograms
Address plaques
Welcome signs
Wedding and anniversary gifts
Memorial and remembrance signs
Business signs and logos
Custom quotes and sayings
Home decor signs
Garage and man cave signs
Pet memorial signs
Farm and ranch signs

If you have a custom design idea, we can probably make it! Contact us at [email protected] to discuss your project.

What materials do you use?

We work with several types of metal:

Aluminum – Lightweight, rust-resistant, great for indoor and outdoor use
Steel – Durable and strong, excellent for rustic designs
Stainless Steel – Premium option, highly resistant to corrosion

All materials are high-quality and suitable for long-term use.

What sizes are available?

We can create signs in almost any size! Common sizes include:

Small: 8″ x 8″ to 12″ x 12″
Medium: 12″ x 18″ to 18″ x 24″
Large: 24″ x 24″ to 36″ x 48″
Custom: Any size you need

When ordering, please measure the space where you plan to display your sign to ensure the perfect fit.

Can I see examples of your work?

Yes! Visit our product pages or gallery on www.gstdb.com to see examples of signs we’ve created for other customers. You can also check our social media pages for more inspiration.

How much do custom signs cost?

Pricing depends on:

Size of the sign
Material chosen (aluminum, steel, stainless steel)
Complexity of the design
Finish and coating options
Additional customization

You’ll see the exact price when you configure your sign on our website. We offer competitive factory-direct pricing because we manufacture everything ourselves.

Do you offer bulk or wholesale orders?

Yes! If you need multiple signs or are interested in wholesale pricing, please contact us at [email protected] with details about your project. We can provide custom quotes for bulk orders.

🎨 Design & Customization

How does the design process work?

Step 1: You place your order and provide your design specifications (text, images, measurements, preferences)

Step 2: Our design team creates a digital proof showing exactly how your sign will look

Step 3: We email you the proof within 24-48 hours for your review

Step 4: You can request changes or revisions

Step 5: Once you’re 100% satisfied, you approve the design

Step 6: We begin production

Can I provide my own design?

Absolutely! You can:

Upload your own design files (AI, PDF, PNG, JPG)
Provide sketches or hand-drawn designs
Share inspiration images
Describe your vision and let our team create it

We’ll work with your design and create a proof for your approval before production.

What if I don’t have a design?

No problem! Our experienced design team can help you create the perfect sign. Just tell us:

What text you want
The general style you prefer (modern, rustic, elegant, etc.)
How you plan to use the sign
Any specific colors or elements you’d like

We’ll create design options for you to review.

Can I make changes to my design?

Before approval: Yes! You can request as many revisions as you need. We want you to be 100% happy with the design before we start production.

After approval: Unfortunately, no. Once you approve the design and production begins, we cannot make changes. This is why we emphasize carefully reviewing the proof before approval.

What file formats do you accept?

We accept most common file formats:

Vector files: AI, EPS, SVG, PDF (preferred for logos and graphics)
Image files: PNG, JPG, JPEG
Document files: PDF

For best results, provide high-resolution files (at least 300 DPI for images).

Can I use copyrighted images or logos?

You are responsible for ensuring you have the right to use any images, logos, or designs you provide. This includes:

Company logos (must have permission)
Trademarked designs
Copyrighted artwork
Licensed characters or brands

We reserve the right to refuse orders that may infringe on intellectual property rights.

⏱️ Production & Timeline

How long does it take to make my sign?

Design proof: 24-48 hours after order placement
Production: 5-10 business days after design approval
Shipping: 7-15 business days (international shipping from China)
Total: Approximately 2-4 weeks from order to delivery

Can you rush my order?

Production time (5-10 days) cannot be rushed as each sign requires specific manufacturing steps.

Shipping time can sometimes be expedited with DHL Express for an additional fee. This reduces shipping from 7-15 days to 5-10 days.

For best results, please order at least 3-4 weeks before you need your sign.

Why does it take 2-4 weeks?

Our signs are 100% custom-made to order. Here’s why it takes time:

Design phase (1-2 days): Creating and refining your custom proof
Production phase (5-10 days): Cutting, shaping, finishing, and customizing your sign
Quality control (1 day): Inspecting and packaging
International shipping (7-15 days): Transport from China to USA

We prioritize quality over speed to ensure you receive a perfect sign.

What happens if there’s a delay?

We’ll notify you immediately if any delays occur. Common reasons for delays:

Design revision requests (takes additional time)
Chinese holidays (Chinese New Year, National Day)
Weather-related shipping delays
Customs inspections (rare)

You can always email us at [email protected] for order status updates.

🌍 Shipping & Delivery

Where do you ship from?

We ship directly from our manufacturing facility in Xiamen, Fujian, China. This allows us to offer factory-direct pricing and maintain complete quality control.

Do you ship to all 50 states?

Yes! We ship to all 50 US states, including Alaska and Hawaii. We also ship to APO/FPO military addresses.

How much is shipping?

Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on:

Your delivery address
Package size and weight
Shipping method selected

We occasionally offer free shipping promotions – check our website for current offers!

How long does shipping take?

Standard shipping: 7-15 business days from China to USA
Express shipping: 5-10 business days (DHL Express, additional fee)

Most customers receive their orders within 10-12 days of shipping.

Will I get a tracking number?

Yes! Once your sign ships, you’ll receive:

Tracking number via email
Carrier information (EMS, DHL, ePacket, China Post)
Link to track your package

You can track your package in real-time from China to your doorstep.

Do I have to pay customs fees or import taxes?

Good news: Usually NO!

According to US customs regulations, shipments valued under $800 are generally exempt from customs duties and import taxes. Since most of our signs are well below this threshold, over 99% of our customers do not pay any customs fees.

In the rare case that customs fees are assessed, they are the responsibility of the recipient.

What if my package is lost or damaged?

Damaged: If your sign arrives damaged, contact us within 7 days with photos. We’ll send a replacement at no cost or provide a full refund.

Lost: If tracking shows no movement for 30+ days, contact us and we’ll file a carrier claim and send a replacement or refund.

See our Return & Refund Policy for complete details.

Can I change my shipping address after ordering?

Before shipping: Yes, contact us immediately at [email protected] and we can update your address.

After shipping: Very difficult. You’ll need to contact the carrier directly to request an address change (fees may apply).

💰 Payment & Pricing

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept:

Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover)
Debit cards
PayPal
Other payment methods as shown at checkout

All payments are processed securely through encrypted payment gateways.

When will I be charged?

You’ll be charged at the time you place your order. This payment authorizes us to begin the design process and, once you approve the design, to start production.

Do you offer discounts?

We occasionally offer:

Promotional discounts (check our website homepage)
Free shipping on orders over a certain amount
Holiday sales
Bulk order discounts

Subscribe to our email list to receive notifications about special offers!

Can I get a refund?

Refunds are only available in specific circumstances:

✅ Manufacturing defects
✅ Damage during shipping
✅ Our production errors (doesn’t match your approved proof)
❌ Change of mind after design approval
❌ Buyer errors in information provided

See our Return & Refund Policy for complete details.

🔧 Installation & Care

How do I hang or install my sign?

Most of our signs include mounting holes for easy installation. You can:

Mount with screws or nails directly to walls
Use command strips (for lighter signs on smooth surfaces)
Hang with wire or rope through mounting holes
Use standoffs for a floating effect

Specific installation instructions will be included with your sign based on its size and weight.

Can the signs be used outdoors?

Yes! Our metal signs are suitable for outdoor use:

Aluminum signs: Rust-resistant, excellent for all weather
Steel signs: May develop a rustic patina over time (adds character!)
Powder-coated finishes: Provide extra weather protection

For longest life outdoors:

Install under an overhang or porch (protection from direct rain is ideal)
Clean periodically with mild soap and water
Avoid areas with excessive moisture exposure

How do I clean my metal sign?

Regular cleaning:

Wipe with a soft, damp cloth
Use mild soap and water for tougher dirt
Dry thoroughly with a clean cloth

Avoid:

Abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads
Harsh chemicals
Pressure washers (high pressure can damage finishes)

Will my sign rust?

Aluminum signs: Naturally rust-resistant
Stainless steel signs: Highly resistant to rust and corrosion
Steel signs: May develop rust over time, especially outdoors (many customers love the rustic look!)
Powder-coated signs: The coating provides significant rust protection

Proper installation and care will maximize the life of your sign.

How long will my sign last?

With proper care:

Indoor use: Many years (10+ years typical)
Outdoor use (covered): 5-10+ years
Outdoor use (exposed): 3-5+ years depending on climate

Signs in harsh conditions (salt air, extreme weather) may show wear sooner. Regular cleaning and maintenance extend life significantly.

🔄 Returns & Exchanges

Can I return my custom sign?

Custom and personalized signs cannot be returned once production begins and you’ve approved the design, except in these situations:

Manufacturing defects
Damage during shipping
Our production errors (doesn’t match your approved proof)

This policy is standard for custom-made products because each sign is created specifically for you and cannot be resold.

What if I made a mistake in my order?

Before design approval: Contact us immediately at [email protected]. We may be able to update your order if we haven’t started the design yet.

After design approval: Unfortunately, we cannot make changes once production begins. This is why we provide design proofs for your careful review before production.

Received sign: If the error is in the information you provided and we accurately reproduced it, this does not qualify for a return or refund. Always double-check your proof!

What if there’s something wrong with my sign?

Your order number
Photos of the issue
Description of the problem

We’ll review your claim within 24-48 hours. If approved, we’ll send a replacement or provide a full refund.

Can I exchange for a different design?

We don’t offer direct exchanges for custom products. If you want a different design:

You would need to return the original (if eligible under our return policy)
Place a new order for the design you want

🏢 About Gstdb

Where are you located?

We’re located in Xiamen, Fujian, China. Our address is:

Gstdb
Bo Xue Lu, Xiang An Qu
Xiamen, Fujian, China, 361105

Why are you based in China?

China is home to world-class metal fabrication facilities and skilled craftspeople. Our location allows us to:

Offer competitive factory-direct pricing
Maintain complete quality control
Access state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment
Provide extensive customization capabilities

We ship directly to US customers, cutting out middlemen and passing the savings to you.

How long have you been in business?

Gstdb was founded in 2022. In our 2+ years of operation, we’ve successfully shipped thousands of custom metal signs to customers across the United States.

Can I visit your facility?

While we primarily serve customers online, we welcome visitors to our facility in Xiamen. If you’re in the area and would like to see our operation, please email [email protected] to schedule a visit.

Do you have reviews from other customers?

Yes! You can find customer reviews and testimonials on:

Our product pages on www.gstdb.com
Our social media pages
Third-party review platforms

We’re proud of the positive feedback from our customers and always strive to exceed expectations.

📞 Contact & Support

How can I contact you?

Email: [email protected] (fastest response)
Phone/WhatsApp: 1-507-478-4425
Website: www.gstdb.com
Contact Form: Available on our website

What are your business hours?

Our Hours (China Standard Time – UTC+8):
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM CST
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM CST
Sunday: Closed

Time Zone Note: China is 12-15 hours ahead of US time zones depending on your location and daylight saving time.

How quickly do you respond?

We respond to all inquiries within 24 business hours, usually much faster!

Due to the time zone difference, there may be a delay if you email us during our nighttime hours, but we’ll get back to you as soon as our office opens.

Can I call you?

Yes! You can call or WhatsApp us at 1-507-478-4425. However, due to time zone differences, email is often the fastest way to reach us ([email protected]). We monitor email throughout our business day and respond quickly.

Do you have live chat?

If live chat is available, you’ll see the chat widget on our website. Chat hours may be limited due to time zones, but we’re always available via email!

What if I have a question not answered here?

Please don’t hesitate to contact us! Email [email protected] with your question, and we’ll get back to you within 24 hours. We’re here to help!

🛡️ Quality & Guarantees

How do I know the quality will be good?

We stand behind the quality of every sign we make:

✅ Premium materials (aluminum, steel, stainless steel)
✅ Professional-grade finishes and coatings
✅ State-of-the-art manufacturing equipment
✅ Experienced craftspeople
✅ Rigorous quality inspection before shipping
✅ 2+ years of experience shipping to US customers

We also provide design proofs so you know exactly what you’re getting before production begins.

What if I’m not satisfied with the quality?

If your sign has a manufacturing defect or quality issue that’s our fault, we’ll make it right:

Free replacement
Full refund

Do you offer any guarantees or warranties?

We guarantee that:

Your sign will be manufactured exactly as shown in your approved proof
We use quality materials and professional craftsmanship
Your sign will be carefully packaged for safe shipping

If we fail to meet these standards, we’ll provide a replacement or refund.

We do not warrant against normal wear and tear, rust on steel signs (which is expected over time), or damage caused by improper installation or care.

🌟 Tips & Recommendations

How do I choose the right size?

Step 1: Measure the space where you plan to display your sign

Step 2: Consider viewing distance:

Close viewing (indoor walls): Smaller signs work great
Distance viewing (above doors, on buildings): Larger signs are better

Step 3: Create a template:

Cut paper or cardboard to your planned size
Tape it to the wall to visualize

Step 4: When in doubt, go slightly larger – signs often look smaller once installed!

What’s the most popular style?

Our customers love:

Family name signs with established dates
Address plaques for home entrances
Rustic farmhouse-style signs
Modern minimalist designs
Vintage/distressed finishes

Browse our product gallery for inspiration!

How far in advance should I order?

For gifts or events: Order at least 3-4 weeks in advance to ensure timely delivery

For urgent needs: Contact us to discuss express shipping options

No deadline: Order anytime! We’ll get your sign to you as quickly as possible

What makes a good design?

Keep it readable:

Choose clear, legible fonts
Don’t overcrowd with too much text
Ensure good contrast between text and background

Consider your space:

Horizontal signs for above doors/mantels
Vertical signs for narrow spaces
Square signs for balanced focal points

Think about longevity:

Avoid overly trendy designs that may date quickly
Classic styles remain beautiful for years

Our design team can help guide you!

🎁 Gifts & Special Occasions

Are your signs good for gifts?

Absolutely! Custom metal signs make thoughtful, personalized gifts for:

Weddings and anniversaries
Housewarmings
Birthdays
Retirements
Memorials
Holidays

They’re unique, meaningful, and last for years.

Can you ship directly to the gift recipient?

Yes! During checkout, you can enter a different shipping address. We can also include a gift note if you’d like – just mention this in the order comments.

Do you offer gift wrapping?

Currently, signs are packaged securely for shipping but not gift-wrapped. The recipient will receive the sign in protective packaging. You may want to repackage it for presentation if giving in person.

Can I order multiple signs?

Yes! You can order multiple different designs in one transaction or place separate orders. For bulk orders, contact us at [email protected] for potential discounts.

Still Have Questions?

We’re here to help! Contact us anytime:

📧 Email: [email protected]
📱 Phone/WhatsApp: 1-507-478-4425
🌐 Website: www.gstdb.com

We look forward to creating your perfect custom metal sign!

Ready to get started? Visit our website to design your custom sign today!