The hidden cost of custom furniture

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[@Dabasin]

Very happy to watch these every sunday morning, but as an Ex-Shipper of things and seeing a lot of inside of warehouses, couldn't help but ask. Add some small stumps for legs so that people in the warehouse can actually easily pick it up with forklifts. Ive seen a lot of mishandling of boxes that are relatively heavy or uncomfortable to be lifted by hand. While this box is small enough to be loaded on a pallet, something like a table or a cabinet isn't. I just think it would remove some stress of shipping something expensive, and make the job of curriers easier. Lovely video again :)

[@gregoryharmon2348]

Dude.......that "shipping crate" was a work of art. Great video and I love your presentation and philosophy!

[@mcapo3040]

I love how your videos go into topics not regularly seen and you're always just yourself; it's a breath of fresh air in KZbin land :)

[@spagellyfish4023]

As a hobbyist woodworker who might explore the business side of the craft, I really appreciate the transparency of your process and mentality of how you organise the logistics of your projects. Badass apron btw

[@ENCurtis]

I’m glad you found it helpful. And thanks! Totally stoked to have a new apron as slick as that.

[@toddroper7944]

This reminds me of a frankencrate I built when I was working at a wood shop in Texas. We had a butcherblock kitchen island we were shipping to a trade show but didn't have the right raw materials so had to build panels then stitch them together to build the actual crate. It made it to the show with no damage but gained a reputation as the ugliest crate ever constructed.

[@ENCurtis]

Hey if it works it works!

[@TWC6724]

You read my mind my friend. I was just thinking I wish a KZbin woodworker would have a video on shipping freight!! Bam!! Here it is! As a hobby woodworker, I have always wondered about this subject. I have kind of avoided this subject. Thank you!

[@ENCurtis]

Glad I could help! It’s one of those dark holes of woodworking so I thought maybe it would have some value 👊

[@valeriehenschel1590]

So, design the shipping box to become a long term functional storage piece for the client? Like hinge tip and instructions on how to add padded top, convert to pet house or firewood box, add adjustable feet, and/or use for garage storage? Added value for a required cost? Worth considering. My dad built a shipping box to send sister’s belongings to her in Hawaii (and back after graduation). That box became part of the family, used by several siblings as need dictated. 50 years, and it is still in use.

[@BobMuir100]

I think this is a great idea and it justifies the cost particularly when they are going to get a fine box regardless! Now if you can add extra here then you become unique, a leader in the sector?! Brilliant!! I shall offer such over here. Thank you Bob England

[@bridgetl.303]

Just found your channel today! Great content! Having a career in the Military, I learned to pack up things that were valuable to me so that they wouldn’t be damaged in the many moves I had. The first move was a real learning experience, where I “trusted” the packers to do their job. I had so much damage: mainly picture frames! I used the same construction for my boxes as you, only I would save the boxes for the next move. Love the box you put in the box!

[@thomasweller1321]

Ya know, every new video sends me into a new realm of "wanting to make something"! Your real teaching style is fantastic and truly motivational.. I was a teacher, and I know how hard it is to motivate students. You're doing it on a way bigger platform than I ever tried. I retired in the last century. Thank you for all that you do for the woodworking community. I am entering the business of selling my "things" to finance a new Saw Stop table saw. Your attention to detail inspires me.

[@caseystein1227]

One of the best and most commercially realist videos you’ve made.

[@ENCurtis]

Appreciate that 👊

[@mrstandfast2212]

What are the odds that when the client receives the crate, they carefully dismantle it and then reassemble it? I certainly would. We're all big kids at heart, and any parent will tell you that kids play with the box more than they play with the toy.

[@michaelthompson5875]

Keep your shirt on Erik, this is a family channel. Just kidding. I appreciate that you find topics that almost no other woodworking channels cover. Design especially, but shipping is one that is quite important if you want to make a business of it but is easily overlooked. Im not at the moment, but still watched start to finish. Thank you sir. One comment though. Make sure to paint "Fra-geel-ay" (it must be Italian) on top of the crate.

[@donesry2902]

It’s a major award

[@ENCurtis]

Oh I write that on every one and just hope someone gets the joke 😂

[@ndamico1]

Jeez the shipping box is damn nice! Also, your advise is always spot on and timely! Happy Saturday my man!

[@ENCurtis]

Happy Saturday to you as well!

[@royunderwood7514]

Great video. Definitely helped me see how shipping items doesn’t have to be overly complicated.

[@allystrya]

Well holy cow… by the end of your sponsor info I had plumb forgot it was a sponsor info. That is marvelous salesmanship 😂😂 My neighbor owns a Prius and while she has zippity-doo-dah to do with woodworking, she wants a shirt. I told her long ago about yours and thought it was the best thing ever LOL 🤗 I would kill for a shirt or sign or a sticker or push button voice recording that says, “Get in the shop. Go make a thing.”. It is just perfect and, to me, represents your philosophies many of which keep me active in my creative processes instead of my own head (if that makes sense,). I have Laura Kamp’s,” Every Defect, Gets Respect.” Jimmy Diresta’s, “If it looks straight it is straight.” So now I need, “Get in the shop. Go make a thing.”. I can’t bat my eyelashes so I will aim for a cheesy smile. 😁 😂😂😂

[@jimrosson6702]

Great video as always great tips for small woodworking businesses and just all around your videos are so inspiring and what you do for the woodworking community in a hole Thank you

[@sampletaster5093]

Nice crate but having built hundreds of crates myself I have found just using OSB and skipping the frame is lower cost. The 1x material is the most expensive part. The little added weight is usually not noticeable in the freight cost. I can usually knock out a crate in a couple of hours. I also use styrofoam insulation board to line the crate for padding. Be sure to added extra pad to avoid rubbing damage.

[@Tensquaremetreworkshop]

I am reminded of those expensive handags- that come in a bag to protect it....

[@philaandrew100]

Yhep. I remember shipping my first custom build Guitar across Australia and the stress that caused. If not for the advice and help from my Mentor I would, some 35 years later, still be in therapy🤣 This was a most excellent video and one that you should tag to the top of your play list.

[@ENCurtis]

I’m glad you can relate to the stress 😂 and thanks my dude!

[@BillMSmith]

Good idea building the shipping costs into the original quote. People really hate add on fees, even if the total ends up the same. For larger pieces than UPS handles there are usually freight forwarders who will get it onto a truck for you.

[@ENCurtis]

Nobody likes last minute costs. Just adding a reasonable flat fee on the end makes everyone feel better for sure.

[@michaelholmstrom7677]

As a bowl turner, I actually size my finished bowls to fit in flat rate boxes to easily calculate shipping for online orders. Now I just need more online orders.

[@mixmastudio5189]

Better to use 1x4 and 2x4 (or 4x4) pine framing and 1/2" OSB. The bottom should have either 2x4 or 4x4 skids running parallel lengthwise otherwise the forklift won't have anything to pick it up from and forklift tines will puncture the side walls of the crate, and 1/4" plywood is not going to resist a forklift puncture. No need to use wood glue or drill any holes. Use a nail gun to temporarily put together the crate components together if you have one, but could use glue. Screws are better. Use 2-3" screws to assemble the crate. Assemble the sides and attach the top panel last. Leave 2-4" around all sides of just empty air on the inside. Don't use thick foam on the inside walls as you don't want the furniture coming in contact with the walls of the crate as any loads from shipping will transfer through the foam and to the piece. Wrap with plastic wrap or foam and install feet or corner protection using another material like cardboard or rubber foam. Tie the furniture piece down to the floor of the crate with straps wrapped in heavy duty corner protection material where they touch the furniture. Take pictures of the way the crate is made inside and out for evidence if you need to file a shipping claim. Don't worry about the weight of the crate as it is not much of a factor in shipping price, in fact it is cheaper to ship heavy furniture than lightweight furniture as the freight class is lower. Give clients a rough estimate of shipping and crating cost at the beginning but bill them separately for it at the end as the rates and materials fluctuate in cost. If the order volume changes during the production process then it can be difficult to detach any built-in shipping fess and make sure you are charging the correct amount by the time you ship. --- Mixma Studio, Guadalajara, Mexico.

[@scottcallan3897]

What a great message today. I will support this because of what you do. Thank you

[@ENCurtis]

Thank you 👊

[@neevi2001]

Hey! Great boxes you made there (both the commissioned piece and the shipping box) I really appreciate the woodworking content you upload. It's very informative and educative for someone who is just getting started on this journey of woodworking and who doesn't have the resources to learn in the place they live in. A small request if you have time, but could you make a video on your experience at the Centre for Furniture Craftsmanship or maybe a video on some good institutes offering woodworking courses around the world. It would be really helpful to have someone from the field with experience share and give insight on this. Again, a big thank you for sharing and making such good content and I hope you keep doing it in the future too.

[@einsteinbpc]

Man you’ve done it again. Good solid advice, and the sponsorship section was uplifting and motivational. Thanks so much for this content it’s my new favourite way to spend a quiet Saturday morning. Cheers.

[@ENCurtis]

I really appreciate that. Cheers my guy.

[@danlynch1154]

Great topic, great video! Thanks!

[@paulmaryon9088]

Hey buddy, another great and informative video, thank you, some excellent advice there, see you on the next one, stay cool

[@SwearingenTurnings]

I'll be shipping my first table from Maryland to Louisiana soon; this video is just what I needed!

[@joeworkman]

It must be a very good commission if you are taking the time to mill the wood to build the crate!!! Keep up the good work.

[@brentw8014]

You sir are a gentleman and an artist! Thank you for motivating us.

[@ENCurtis]

Thank you so much 👊

[@davidmeyer9204]

Thank you Erik. As said before, not something you see on You Tube, But very important. Thanks Again

[@mikedurkee7296]

You are a good dude Curtis, I want to get me some of that merch!

[@twcmaker]

Shipping is the worst. It's not so bad now I've done it 30-40 times. But those first ones, where the customer has spent a lot of money and the pieces are getting there a week before an event... That's scary head stuff going on, just because the worry of not getting there or being damaged. Closer ones I really like. Put the piece on the back seat and drive there. Those are easy fun. Great video as always 👍. Keep up with the beautiful channel. Jamie

[@tommoeller7149]

Great tutorial on a very neglected topic. Thx.

[@NewmanSpecialsWoodwork]

Bro. You are such a great guy! Fantastic video and work - love the altruism here!

[@ENCurtis]

Appreciate you brother!

[@NewmanSpecialsWoodwork]

@@ENCurtis keep killing it my man

[@Shadowveil26]

I’d never dispose of a beautiful crate like that. I’d use it to make something else.

[@JeffFontecchio]

Very helpful information, thanks for sharing.

[@ENCurtis]

Thanks as always for the support and engagement, Jeff 👊

[@AnonymousUser1776]

Brother, this channel is consistently thoughtful and positive. Bravo.

[@ENCurtis]

I really appreciate that brother. Thank you.

[@RobCoops]

When shipping it is not both the weight and the volume that matters... it is either or. The way this works is if I am shipping 20 cubic feet of pingpong balls in that case you pay based on the volume, if you where to ship 20 cubic feet of lead you would pay based on the weight. You pay which ever one of these two measurements results in a higher price. The reasoning is simple you can only ship so much volume and so much weight in a truck, plane on a ship, so which ever contributes most to the limits is what you pay for. (Yes, I worked for one of the largest international freight shippers in the world for quite a few years) This is why most products are shipped in cardboard or plastic it weighs less. This is why, when building a box, the thinnest and lightest product you can get away with is your best option it can save you a lot. If you are doing large volumes, it is worth to work with your shipper and see if you can agree on a discount based on regular shipments with minimum weight/volume.

[@BobMuir100]

So……I have watched may be 12 of your videos and whilst I enjoy them (and you very much) I have not yet subscribed as I am a hobbyist that occasionally ‘sells’ something by mistake really and you seem to be for the far far better folk than I am. You often appear to knock such as I with comments such as ‘…….professionals don’t use stain……..’ well here’s some news buddy …… I an NOT a professional and I do use stain and I am watching your channel!! Today you made a video that I could use, really use as I do ship those ‘sales’ and I do send pieces to friends and family around the country. Now you have my subscription. Another good video Sir. Bob England

[@josepharchuleta9809]

I can’t stop looking at your coffee mug

[@dwayneford1990]

Hey Erik, love watching your videos. I love your relaxed, conversational style too. It really draws me in. Listen, would you be open to doing a video on how YOU would make a beautiful mallet? I've watched a ton of videos to get some ideas but I'm thinking you would probably take a unique approach to the design, function and build of a good mallet. Please keep it in mind. I know a lot of woodworkers would love to see you do that. Cheers..

[@yramagicman675]

Dangit! You did something unexpected. You made me care about your sponsor spot. That's not an experience I've had often. I loved the story telling in your sponsor spot.

[@tims6540]

Hoodies with zipper are dope

[@yossiyaari3760]

Great video. Isn't planing the poplar on all four sides over kill for a crate? or was that a brand image decision?

[@electronsmove]

Should have put some C channel across the bottom of the box to stop it from warping.

[@RobSHoglund]

Your shipping crates are nicer than my finished pieces…😂😂😂

[@yoohoo8017]

Love your videos, mate. I send a huge picture frame from Australia to Germany. Made from Jarrah I thought it was pretty much indestructible, but somehow they still managed to crack it. Even the toughest sometimes needs a bit more padding 😂

[@ENCurtis]

Gotta pack it out tight! I once had someone drive a forklift directly into the side of the crate 😬 but thankfully the padding kept it from any immense damage.

[@craigstoddard7202]

I have a comment on your finishing video. I wanted to know if I can do the same mixture using Tungoil instead of the Liberon oil

[@jaredpgrigg]

The "handling" in "shipping and handling"

[@SWA-Projects]

Thanks for the encouraging video about shipping. I would like to do that one day also. As always great content from a reliable and trustworthy channel . I commented on one of your other videos that your channel is on my top 10, now it’s on my top 3 👍

[@ENCurtis]

Thanks man!

[@AndrewFrink]

dispose of the crate pieces?! that's a great box for a storage closet, or the basement, or whatever.

[@dpmeyer4867]

thanks

[@garethbaker3429]

Never mind the shirt, where do we get the mug!

[@MikeyDonna]

I was wondering, with the shipping of this box did you figure in the cost of your labor, electric to run you shop during the build , the basic cost per square foot of your shop, rent heat cooling , depreciation of equipment and maintenance, insurance , liability & personal plus a few things I probably forgot like city business license etc.

[@RichyN25]

as a newer woodworker, starting his own LLC as well, shipping is my biggest thing I struggle with, I enjoy building stuff, the process, and spending time making sawdust, but shipping is hard

[@timothyplumley6004]

"The joiner and the cabinet maker" a book of learning and a story ( wonderfully reprinted by lost art press) says slightly the same thing. But the journey is part of the story.

[@andykg73]

you even make good looking shipping crates. Are there no end to your talents!

[@ENCurtis]

You don’t want to see me dance… 🤣

[@matteout_woodworking]

I find shipping intimidating. The last time I needed to ship something it was a big item and it would have cost thousands. Ended up driving it there but I learned that sometimes you can make thousands by driving something 5 hours away.

[@robandsharonseddon-smith5216]

I've nothing useful to say but I understand that comments help in some way!

[@ENCurtis]

They sure do! And I appreciate it!

[@emptyheads7989]

agh, I was going o say that

[@mikedodsonlabview]

Eric, you missed one piece of merch for your site. That mug! OMG, that would sell! 😜. Great video as always!

[@ENCurtis]

If I had David make a series of those mugs I would ABSOLUTELY sell them!

[@brianwyszynski7345]

Any chance of getting him to draw the naked wood sculpture on a shirt? And I think it should say a cabinet makers SUV 😄

[@stratmatt73]

Hell, that shipping crate would look great in my living room...

[@ENCurtis]

Haha it’s got an industrial chic vibe to it

[@weirdnewworld1736]

That was fantastic! What did you do with the draw (with the little handle) and top?

[@ENCurtis]

Not sure what part your asking about?

[@weirdnewworld1736]

@@ENCurtis The drawer has a small pull on it - did you, say, wrap and remove the drawer and put it inside, or leave it in? Same with the top, did you worry about it chattering at all, wrap it separately, etc..? If the crate you made (gorgeous!) is the macro packing, what does the more micro packing look like. Thanks, love your videos!

[@outdoorodysseys6622]

I hate to ask a non-woodworking based question. But where did you get that mug? I love it.

[@walterrider9600]

thank you EN . wow you hit the nail on the head . i want to make my daughter a 24' x 36' chest blanket . was not sure on how to get it from ga to west end of tx . too darn old to take it too her . now days

[@ENCurtis]

A big outside box for a big inside box. It’s the matryoshka doll of boxes.

[@walterrider9600]

@@ENCurtis thank you . i really enjoy the info you put out .

[@benjaminwilbur2202]

Erik: Videos....Well Done

[@blayne2029]

doesn't someone sell shipping crates in different sizes? Seems like that would be more cost effective. But maybe it's not.

[@donesry2902]

Thanks! I have been wanting to ship a couple of different pieces that I’m working on now so your video is right on time for me. I was thinking the minimum plywood would be 1/2 inch and I would need to pack it with insulation foam board and I was thinking that it would be a much bigger thing that what you showed. I really appreciate it!

[@ENCurtis]

That would also absolutely work. But it is heavier and more involved. 1/4” and blankets will get the job done for 90% of the things we make.

[@andrewmalick477]

Curtis, do I just go to the post office or fedex with this container like normal? Or do I need to arrange anything ahead of time when shipping freight? Where do I take it at the store? Haha Thanks for any insight

[@ENCurtis]

Yes you can just walk into a store with the crate (I tend to go to UPS because it’s closest)! They’ll measure and weigh the crate and give you a price, just like if you were to ship a small package. Same exact thing. Just bigger.

[@Jacksterific]

What kinda saw and fence are you driving there, hoss? Both appear to be very large. Way bigger than the standard Unisaw types. Or do all objects in your shop appear to larger than real life? Great content. Shipping will eat you up both mentally and financially - usually only once. Wish I had seen this 15 years ago. Much owwie.

[@herpderp4908]

00:06 how do i what?! *winds back 10sec* ...oooh...

[@Gr8GooglyMoogly]

Not sure if it is an issue or not, but on the pages for each of the new merch items available, it says campaign ends in 7 days, which would be 10/23, not 11/23. Also, as someone with a degree in industrial design but severely lacking in sketching abilities, the artist did a great job transferring your designs to 2D.

[@KOutOfMyYard]

Boom. Just bought 2 Ts👊🏾

[@DuncanEllis]

I'm going to take the American format date in the explanation of when Thanksgiving is "for our non-American friends" as a joke, and it is a good one.

[@ENCurtis]

I’m glad someone got the joke about us ignorant Americans 👊

[@SeamusMcClintock]

23/11 for non Americans actually.

[@ENCurtis]

Indubitably.

[@NobukiPhu]

😂😂😂😂😂 I was also thinking, "there isn't twenty three months in a year." Haha.

[@michaelhenderson4706]

Oh yeah, make sure that sh*t's insured for the shipment. Freight companies suck and eventually, someone's going to put a fork through your crate. On 2nd thought, maybe over-insure a lil' bit 😂

[@georgeslater4020]

You should put some how the woman body on a t-shirt that would be awesome a a huge seller

[@MrsEarth-pf4cr]

Sorry boo, I've been missing your videos; however, not because another woodworker has been taking your place. Never that!

[@johnk6352]

Came to believe...

[@tonysutton6559]

The crate is too good to dispose of. I bet 90% of your customers would find a use for it, even if it is just for a log box in the garage.

[@ENCurtis]

I hope they do! No reason to waste if they can make use of it

[@stuartansell9461]

👊

[@brentjenkinsdesigns]

Very very carefully. 😂

[@ENCurtis]

It’s the only way 😬

[@dabeamer42]

Nothing I make needs that kind of shipping -- although I did once make a simple stepstool for my granddaughter and had to ship it 600 miles. I wound up putting it in a box that the shippers use to ship a set of golf clubs. Bulky, but it worked, and I didn't have to build anything. A question that I've wanted to ask forever: what is the music you use? It's not listed in your description. That drop-D acoustic guitar (dobro?), with the relaxed finger-picking is just such an excellent accompaniment. I'd be interested in picking up a recording or two from that performer.

[@user-sk2wb2lv2h]

I'm sorry not to sound judgmental my friend are you talkin to fellow

[@snowroaches]

I'll never understand all these "professionals" who have no blade guard on their table saw and reach over it and around while it's spinning.

[@mickhead666]

First

[@brianownsvzw]

Don’t get me wrong, I say dope as much as any other millennial, but this dude needs to find some new adjectives.

[@Mostviews111]

Way too much bs easily could have been a 10 minute video. This is why the subs are way down.

[@joeworkman]

It must be a very good commission if you are taking the time to mill the wood to build the crate!!! Keep up the good work.

[@ENCurtis]

I was just too lazy to go to HD and get 1x3s 😂