Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our custom aluminum solutions, ordering process, and services.

Custom Solutions & Quoting

How do I get a quote for a custom solution?

We make quoting easy. You have two options:

  • Online: Use our quote request form at www.the-modular-solution.com/quotes with your specifications
  • Direct: Call us at 248-625-1864 or email to discuss your project with an engineer

Our team typically responds to quote requests within 24 hours with pricing and lead time estimates. For complex projects, we may schedule a consultation call to clarify requirements.

What information do I need to provide for a custom quote?

To provide an accurate quote, please include:

  • Application: What will the solution be used for?
  • Dimensions: Approximate size and space constraints
  • Load requirements: What weight or forces must it support?
  • Material preferences: Aluminum type, finish (raw, anodized, painted)
  • Environment: Indoor/outdoor, temperature, humidity, chemical exposure
  • Timeline: When do you need it?
  • Drawings/sketches: Even rough sketches help significantly

If you're not sure about technical details, our engineers can help you figure them out during the quoting process.

How long are quotes valid for?

Our quotes are valid for 30 days from the quote date. This ensures pricing accuracy and allows you time to review options with your team. If you need a quote extended beyond 30 days, contact us and we may be able to refresh pricing if material costs haven't changed significantly.

What are typical lead times for custom solutions?

Lead times depend on complexity and customization level:

  • Standard configurations: 2-4 weeks
  • Moderately complex custom: 4-8 weeks
  • Highly engineered solutions: 8-12 weeks
  • Rush options: Available at premium pricing (contact for details)

Lead times include design, engineering review, fabrication, assembly, and quality testing. Your actual timeline will be confirmed in your quote.

Can you expedite our order?

Yes, expedited options are available depending on current capacity. Rush manufacturing typically involves a premium on labor and materials. Contact our team at 248-625-1864 to discuss your timeline and get expedited pricing. Earlier is always better—let us know ASAP if you need acceleration.

Do you offer design and engineering services, or do I need to provide CAD drawings?

We do both. Our team can:

  • Work from your sketches, photos, or verbal descriptions
  • Use our CAD expertise to create detailed designs from your concept
  • Engineer solutions that optimize performance and cost
  • Perform structural analysis to ensure safety and reliability

If you already have CAD files, we'll incorporate them. If not, our engineers will create designs for you at no extra charge—it's included in our transparent pricing.

Pricing & Value Proposition

Why should I choose Modular Solutions instead of a reseller or catalog supplier?

We're an original equipment manufacturer (OEM), not a reseller. Here's what that means for you:

  • Direct Control: We own the entire manufacturing process—design, extrusion, machining, assembly, quality control
  • True Customization: Not limited to catalog profiles. We engineer solutions tailored to YOUR specs
  • Faster Delivery: Vertical integration means no middleman delays
  • Better Economics: No reseller markups. Direct manufacturing saves you money
  • Single Accountability: One partner, end-to-end responsibility. No finger-pointing between vendors
  • Quality Assurance: 40+ years of expertise and in-house quality control at every step
What does "all-in-one pricing" mean?

Our quote includes everything. There are no hidden fees or surprise charges:

  • ✓ Custom aluminum extrusions
  • ✓ All cutting and machining operations
  • ✓ Assembly and fabrication
  • ✓ Finishing (anodizing, painting, etc.)
  • ✓ Engineering and design
  • ✓ Testing and quality assurance

Many resellers quote a base price, then add: cutting fees, machining surcharges, setup charges, finishing costs, handling fees. By the time you get the bill, you're paying 30-50% more than quoted. At Modular Solutions, the quoted price is your final price.

Do you offer volume discounts?

Yes. We work with customers on volume pricing for:

  • Large single orders (100+ units)
  • Recurring orders over time
  • Production-scale projects

Contact our sales team at or 248-625-1864 to discuss volume opportunities and custom pricing.

Can I see a price breakdown or itemized quote?

Absolutely. Our quotes include transparent pricing with breakdowns for materials, fabrication, assembly, engineering, and any special processes. We're happy to discuss pricing details to help you understand where your investment goes and identify potential optimizations.

How do your prices compare to off-the-shelf or catalog solutions?

It depends on your application. For standard configurations, catalog solutions may be cheaper initially. But consider:

  • Catalog parts rarely fit perfectly—you'll need custom modifications, adapters, or workarounds
  • Multiple vendors = higher total cost + integration headaches
  • Lead times are often longer with catalog suppliers
  • You lose design optimization and custom engineering

For custom applications, Modular Solutions is almost always more cost-effective than building it yourself or hiring multiple vendors. We engineer efficiency into every solution.

Ordering & Shipping

What are your payment terms?

We accept multiple payment methods with flexible terms:

  • Credit Card: Payment due before shipment
  • ACH/Wire Transfer: Payment due before shipment
  • Check: Accepted; payment due before shipment
  • Purchase Orders: Available for qualified customers (subject to credit approval)

For large orders or recurring business, we can discuss customized payment arrangements. Contact to set up an account.

How do I place an order?

Once your quote is approved, placing an order is simple:

  • Email: Reply to your quote and confirm you're ready to proceed
  • Phone: Call 248-625-1864 to verbally confirm
  • PO: Submit a purchase order if you have one

Once we receive confirmation and payment, we'll issue a formal order acknowledgment with your specifications, timeline, and delivery details.

Who pays for shipping?

Shipping costs are included in your quote and are the buyer's responsibility. We offer competitive rates with multiple carrier options (FedEx, UPS, freight, etc.). For large or heavy items, we can arrange specialized freight shipping. International shipping is available—contact us for rates and logistics details.

How is my order shipped and can I track it?

Your product is carefully packaged and shipped via the carrier specified in your order. You'll receive:

  • Tracking number via email
  • Estimated delivery date
  • Shipping documentation

For high-value orders, we recommend purchasing shipping insurance. Request details when placing your order.

What if my shipment arrives damaged?

Report damage within 48 hours for the best resolution:

We'll file a claim with the carrier and work with you on a replacement or repair. If damage is confirmed, we'll typically expedite a replacement shipment at no charge.

Products & Technical

What materials do you use?

We specialize in aluminum extrusions with various alloy options:

  • 6061 Aluminum: Most common—excellent strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistant, machinable
  • 6063 Aluminum: Good for anodizing and finishing, slightly softer than 6061
  • 7075 Aluminum: High-strength alloy for demanding applications (aerospace, high-load)
  • Other alloys: Available for specialized requirements—contact us

We also work with steel, stainless steel, and complementary materials for specialized applications. Finishes include raw aluminum, anodized (various colors), painted, or powdercoated.

What load capacity can aluminum support?

Aluminum load capacity depends on several factors:

  • Alloy type (6061 vs. 7075, etc.)
  • Profile dimensions (thickness, cross-sectional area)
  • Application (static vs. dynamic loads, vibration, temperature)
  • Safety factor required for your industry

Our engineers perform structural analysis to ensure your solution safely supports required loads. In many cases, aluminum is stronger than steel while being lighter and more cost-effective. We'll engineer for your specific requirements.

Do you comply with industry standards (OSHA, ISO, FDA, etc.)?

Yes. We design and manufacture to comply with:

  • OSHA: Worker safety requirements, machine guarding standards
  • ISO: Quality management and product specifications
  • ANSI: American National Standards for safety and dimensions
  • FDA: Food/beverage contact surfaces where applicable
  • NFPA: Fire protection and electrical safety
  • Industry-specific standards: Aerospace (AS9100), automotive (IATF), etc.

Tell us your compliance requirements during quoting, and we'll ensure your solution meets all applicable standards.

Can you provide certifications or test reports?

Yes. We provide:

  • Material test reports (composition, tensile strength, etc.)
  • Structural analysis reports and calculations
  • Quality inspection records and traceability documentation
  • Industry-specific certifications as required

All documentation is included with shipment. For additional certifications or testing, contact us during quoting.

Can aluminum be used outdoors?

Yes, absolutely. Aluminum is naturally corrosion-resistant and ideal for outdoor applications:

  • UV and weather resistant
  • Won't rust like steel
  • Lightweight for easy installation
  • Available in protective finishes to enhance durability

We can specify finishes and coatings optimized for your climate and environmental exposure. In coastal or harsh environments, we recommend anodizing or powdercoating for extended lifespan.

Warranty & Returns

What warranty do you provide?

We provide a one (1) year warranty on all products from the date of purchase, covering:

  • Defects in material and workmanship
  • Manufacturing failures under normal use
  • Faulty welds, machining errors, or finish defects

The warranty does NOT cover damage from improper installation, misuse, accidents, modifications, or normal wear and tear. Custom engineered solutions have the same warranty period.

How do I file a warranty claim?

Contact us within the warranty period with details of the issue:

We'll review your claim and arrange repair or replacement as needed. Most warranty issues are resolved quickly—we stand behind our work.

Can I return products?

Yes, subject to our Return Policy:

  • Unused stock items: 10% restocking fee
  • Non-stock items: 25% restocking fee
  • Manifolds: 15-30% restocking fee depending on components
  • Custom engineered solutions: Generally non-returnable (designed specifically for you)
  • Timeframe: Must be returned within 12 months of purchase

All returns require a Return Goods Authorization (RMA) number. Contact us at 248-625-1864 to request an RMA and arrange return shipping. See our full Return Policy for complete details.

What if something is wrong with my order?

If your order doesn't meet specifications or has defects, contact us immediately:

We'll investigate quickly and make it right—whether through replacement, repair, partial credit, or return. We take quality seriously, and we're committed to your satisfaction.

Still have questions?

Our team is ready to help. Reach out anytime.

Request a Quote

Phone: 248-625-1864 | Email: