Calling a shop and asking, "How much to powder coat a chair?" is likely to get you a vague price range or a frustrated-sounding, "You have to bring it in."

Shops aren't trying to be difficult. They are trying to be accurate. When a shop prices a powder coating job, they are estimating the total labor and material cost. A simple, new chair is a different job than an old, rusty, ornate one.

To get a fast, firm, and accurate quote, you need to provide the shop with the right information. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get your job priced correctly.

Step 1: Take Clear Photos of Your Part

A picture is worth a thousand words. Before you even call, take several clear photos of your item on your phone.

·        Get the whole item: One photo showing the entire part.

·        Show the details: Take close-ups of any complex areas (like mesh or scrollwork).

·        Show the damage: This is the most important part. Take clear photos of any rust, peeling paint, or dents. This helps the shop accurately quote the prep work.

Step 2: Know Your Dimensions

Have the basic measurements ready. "A small table" is not helpful. "A 36-inch round patio table" is. Provide the length, width, and height. This tells the shop how much oven space and powder it will require.

Step 3: Specify the Prep Work (and Be Honest)

Tell the shop the part's history.

·        "It's a brand new, raw steel part." (This is the cheapest)

·        "It has the original factory paint, but it's in good shape."

·        "It's been rattle-canned three times and has rust spots." (This will require the most prep)

If you plan on doing some prep yourself (like sandblasting), tell them. But be aware, if you do a poor job, they may have to re-do it and charge you anyway.

Step 4: Choose Your Color and Finish

Don't just say "black." Be specific.

·        "I want a standard, in-stock gloss black." (Cheapest option)

·        "I want a matte black."

·        "I need a specific red to match my car's brake calipers." (This is a custom, more expensive color)

If you don't care about the exact shade, ask, "What standard colors do you have in stock?" This will always be your most affordable path.

Step 5: Ask What's Included

Once you get a price, ask this one simple question: "Is this an all-inclusive, out-the-door price?"

This confirms if the quote includes:

·        All prep work (sandblasting, stripping)

·        Masking of threads or critical surfaces

·        The powder and labor

·        Any shop fees

A good shop will provide a quote that includes everything.

Why You Should Get Quotes from 2-3 Shops Pricing can vary. One shop may be very busy and price the job high, while another is slow and will price it competitively to get the work. Use our powder coating cost estimator page to get a baseline before you call, then email your photos and specs to 2-3 local shops.

Conclusion A little preparation goes a long way. By following these steps, you show the shop you are a serious customer, you provide them with everything they need to price the powder coating job accurately, and you avoid any surprise fees when it's time to pay the bill.