Before you ask for a plating quote: 9 things to send your plater

The checklist

1. Drawing and cutting list. Dimensions, profile type and lengths; the surface area (dm²) is calculated from these. No drawing? Clear photos and the main dimensions.
2. Base metal. Serel Metal plates sheet-metal and iron (steel) parts: tube, bar and sheet. Tell us the steel type and whether the parts arrive welded, ground or raw. Aluminium, zamak and stainless steel plating are not part of our services.
3. Finish and colour. Chrome, nickel, gold, rose, smoked, copper or antique; bright or matte? An approved colour sample if you have one.
4. Quantities and batch plan. This order, the annual forecast and which parts make up a set. Plating a set in one batch keeps the colour uniform.
5. Polishing status. Will parts arrive polished, or should grinding and polishing be included?
6. Visible faces. Which side faces the customer? Rack contact marks and drain points are placed on the hidden side.
7. Threads, inserts and masking. Areas that must stay unplated and dimensions that must still fit at assembly.
8. Lead time. Required delivery date, and whether partial shipments are acceptable.
9. Packing and shipping. Stretch wrap, cartons, export packing; feet or accessories to be fitted.

Why these details change the quote

Surface area (dm²) is the basis of the price, but parts per rack, process steps and polishing labour move it directly; see how plating is priced. Surface condition decides the quality itself, as explained in our guide to electroplating defects.

Sample approval: the last step before series production

For a new part or a new colour we plate a sample first. The approved sample becomes the colour and surface reference for series production. Every lot is recorded with the day and the bath it went through, so any question can be traced back.

Frequently asked questions