Frequently Asked Questions

What leadtime options do you offer?

We offer two leadtime options: 1) Priority, which is our signature fast turnaround of 2-3 days (for orders with in-stock materials and in-house services) and 2) Economy, which is our extended three-week service.

I only need one enclosure for a prototype design - does this fall in your definition of 'low volume'?

Yes. We are here to help engineers and designers get their projects done quickly. They often require only one enclosure or small metal part. Therefore we have absolutely no minimum order. Multiple iterations of a prototype are common at Protocase as well - talk to your account manager about a prototyping blanket order for cost-effective design review.

What if need manufacturing in higher volumes?

We absolutely offer manufacturing in low to medium volume production needs. Our blanket order system gives you volume pricing, without the risk and expense of carrying inventory. Just place an order for your estimated yearly requirement, and then request releases in smaller quantities, as needed. We'll build it for you with short lead time, and we'll accommodate small design changes as required. You'll free up storage space and cash flow, and you'll never get caught with out-of-date parts on your shelf. Learn more about Protocase's Higher Volume Manufacturing.

What currency do you work in?

Our default currency is in USD. However, if you would find it more convenient, we can quote, invoice, and accept payment in GBP, EUR, and CAD. Pricing in alternate currencies will be based on the USD price, using our effective conversion rate, and we will hold alternate currency pricing for 30 days. For more information, email info@protocase.com.

How much is shipping?

At Protocase, shipping is included in quoted - unless your quote explicitly states otherwise. We ship client orders by express courier unless otherwise agreed upon. Protocase cannot be held responsible for courier delays or damage in shipment once the product has left our facility.

Is there an option to pay to expedite my order?

No, we do not offer the ability to pay additional fees to expedite orders beyond our usual turnaround time.

What countries do you ship to?

Protocase ships worldwide!

What is the process for submitting a quote?

Protocase provides rapid and accurate price quotations through its friendly and helpful sales staff. We strive to provide a quote within 24 hours from the time a complete drawing or specification is received, and often we can quote in the same day. To submit a quote, you can either email info@protocase.com with the details of your project (including any 3D design files created), or you can fill out the quote request form.

What is an eDrawing?

An eDrawing is a file (either e-drwg, easm or eprt) that allows customers to view a 3D model of the enclosure. It provides clients the ability to verify dimensions, view the enclosure from all angles, view section cutaways to inspect the inside and dissemble the enclosure to view each part that makes up the assembly. We use eDrawings for the design approval process - customers must approve their eDrawing before we can proceed with manufacturing their design.

Can you install my hardware?

Yes we can install your specified self-clinching fasteners, studs, and nuts, rubber feet, handles, etc, where required (although sometimes they are better left off for shipping purposes). See our Materials, Components, and Finishes page for more information.

How are your orders shipped?

We ship orders by express courier, unless otherwise specified. Shipping will typically take 2-3 business days within North America. Shipping time to international destinations range between 2-8 business days, depending on the location. Contact us to discuss your order.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept American Express, Mastercard, Visa and wire transfers, while Net 30 is available for future orders upon approval of application. Email us at info@protocase.com for more details.

Why do you ask for a Federal Tax ID?

Providing your Federal Tax ID allows your order to clear customs in a timely fashion. The Federal Tax ID allows Protocase to present that you are a legitimate business in the United States.

Where do I find my Federal Tax ID?

You will find this number on your W-9, listed as your EIN #. If you are not a registered business, customs will ask for your social security number.

What if I'm not happy with my order once I've received it?

If there is a problem with the product, please contact us right away. We will replace, at no cost, any product not manufactured in accordance with client-approved eDrawings or any product not deemed to be of acceptable quality to both Protocase and the client.

How much time should we expect to add to a project by adding parts you do not stock?

Generally, non-stock components will add 3-5 business days to your lead time. Using non-stock metals usually will add 10 business days. This extra lead time is not universal, however, as it will depend on the availability of those materials. Contact us at info@protocase.com to discuss your needs.

What are the factors that will lead to increased lead time?

Lead times can adjust according to a number of factors, including using non-stock materials and components, large quantity orders, welding, chemical film conversion coating, or orders that have multiple silkscreened graphics. Contact us at info@protocase.com to discuss your needs.

I need a NDA (non-disclosure agreement) signed before I can proceed. Is that possible?

Yes! We are happy to sign NDAs at your request. Just ask your Protocase account manager or email us at info@protocase.com.

If I want to reorder, is there any way to check my order history for parts you've previously made for us?

Yes! You can register for Protocase My Account. Once you have registered with My Account, With just a few clicks, you'll be able to view all of the Instant-Ready jobs your organization has previously ordered with us, and filter to find exactly the jobs you need. Then, quickly and easily submit the orders you'd like us to manufacture again. Currently, you are able to reorder previous jobs that are “Instant Reorder Ready”, with no modifications. We are working on adding more features to My Account. If you would like to reorder previous jobs, but with changes, please use our Request-For-Quote form on our website. If you don’t know a job number for a previous order made and need assistance, your Protocase Account Manager would be happy to help.

Learn more about My Account by watching our video tutorial.

Can you sell gaskets with adhesive backing?

Yes we have the option for both adhesive and non-adhesive backing. Read more on our Gasket page.

What is “Instant Reorder Ready”?

“Instant Reorder Ready” refers to any previous order that can be reordered with no additional quoting or design modifications from our Engineering & Design Services team. Orders that would be excluded from Instant Reorder would be:

• If the previous order had to be reworked

• If there is a newer revision of the same order

• If our production team has flagged this order as needing some design modifications before it can be reordered

• Finally, blanket orders are currently also ineligible for being reordered through My Account. Stay tuned for that functionality!

If, once you have registered for Protocase My Account, you do not see an order that you expected to see, please contact your Protocase Account Manager.

Learn more about My Account by watching our video tutorial.