Request an Acrylic Display Quote: 8 Easy Steps

1. Provide Photos or Design References

The first step is to show the manufacturer what you want to create.

You can provide a reference photo, a competitor’s display, a hand-drawn sketch, a 3D rendering, or an existing sample.

Your reference does not need to show every detail. Its purpose is to communicate the general appearance, structure, and intended use of the display.

For example, if you need a countertop cosmetics display, a reference image can help explain whether you want multiple product levels, individual compartments, a branded back panel, or a simple transparent stand.

If you have several reference images, explain which features you like in each one.

Buyer tip: A reference photo is a starting point, not necessarily a final production specification. Confirm that the manufacturer understands which features must be followed and which can be adjusted.

2. Share Your Product Dimensions

Your display needs to fit the products it will hold. That is why product dimensions are often more useful than an approximate display size alone.

Prepare the following information where applicable:

• Product width, height, and depth

• Product weight

• Packaging dimensions, if boxed products will be displayed

• Number of products to display at one time

• Any special requirements for product removal or replacement

If your product comes in different sizes, provide the dimensions of each version.

For example, a skincare display designed for three bottle sizes may need different compartment widths or shelf heights to accommodate all of them.

If possible, provide actual product samples or clear photographs with measurements. This can help the manufacturer assess fit and identify potential design issues before sampling.

3. Explain the Display’s Overall Size and Structure

If you already know the required display dimensions, include them in your inquiry.

Useful measurements include:

• Overall width, height, and depth

• Number of shelves or product compartments

• Height between shelves

• Base dimensions

• Header or back-panel size

• Available countertop or floor space

If you do not know the ideal dimensions, explain where the display will be used and how many products it should hold.

A display for a small checkout counter has different space requirements from a large retail display.

A manufacturer may be able to suggest a suitable structure based on your product size, quantity, available space, and visual preferences.

The goal is not to finalize every measurement before asking for a quote. It is to provide enough information for a meaningful discussion.

4. Specify the Logo and Branding Requirements

Branding can affect the display’s appearance, production process, and overall cost.

When requesting an acrylic display quote, explain whether you need a logo or other printed graphics.

If available, provide:

• Your logo file

• Brand colors

• Preferred logo size

• Logo position

• Text or promotional artwork

• Reference images showing the desired effect

Different logo methods create different results.

For example, UV printing can reproduce colorful graphics, while laser engraving can create a more subtle, frosted effect on suitable acrylic surfaces. Silk screen printing may also be appropriate for certain designs and production requirements.

If you are unsure which method to choose, tell the manufacturer what visual effect you want and ask for a recommendation.

You do not need to select a production process before explaining your branding goals.

5. Describe the Acrylic Color, Finish, and Other Materials

Acrylic displays can be designed in different colors and finishes, and these choices influence the final appearance.

Consider whether you prefer:

• Clear acrylic for a transparent, minimalist look

• White or black acrylic for stronger visual contrast

• Colored acrylic to match your brand

• Frosted acrylic for a softer appearance

• Polished edges for a clean finish

• A combination of acrylic with wood or other materials

You do not need to specify every technical detail if you are not familiar with the materials.

Instead, provide a reference image and explain the appearance you want to achieve.

For example, you might request a transparent cosmetics display with polished edges and a white printed logo.

A clear description of the desired appearance helps the manufacturer recommend a suitable construction and finishing method.

6. Confirm the Order Quantity and Sampling Requirements

Order quantity is an important part of an acrylic display quotation.

Tell the manufacturer whether you need a prototype, a small initial order, or a larger production run.

For example, you may be planning:

• One sample for design evaluation

• A small batch for a product launch

• Displays for several retail stores

• A repeat order for an established product

If you need a sample before mass production, mention this in your initial inquiry.

You should also clarify whether the sample cost is quoted separately, whether any sample fee can be credited toward a future order, and whether the sample and bulk production will use the same approved specifications.

Do not assume that sample fees, production costs, and delivery charges are automatically included in one price. Ask the manufacturer to clarify what the quotation covers.

7. Explain Your Packaging and Shipping Requirements

A quotation should reflect how the finished displays need to be packed and delivered.

Tell the manufacturer where the goods will be shipped and whether you have any special packaging requirements.

Relevant details may include:

• Individual protective packaging

• Retail-ready packaging

• Custom packaging with branding

• Bulk carton packing

• Delivery to a warehouse or fulfillment center

• Required delivery terms, such as EXW, FOB, or DAP

For example, displays intended for individual retail stores may require different packaging from displays shipped in bulk to a distribution warehouse.

If you are comparing quotations from multiple manufacturers, make sure you are comparing similar delivery terms and packaging arrangements.

A lower product price does not necessarily mean a lower total purchasing cost if the packaging, freight, or other charges differ.

8. Ask for a Detailed Quotation

Once the manufacturer understands your project, ask for a quotation that clearly identifies what is included.

Depending on the project, the quotation may cover:

• Product unit price

• Sample or prototype cost

• Tooling or other project-specific charges, if applicable

• Logo printing or other customization

• Packaging costs

• Estimated production lead time

• Shipping costs or delivery terms

• Payment terms and quotation validity

Not every project will have the same cost items. For many custom acrylic displays, production can use cutting, machining, polishing, printing, and assembly processes without requiring a dedicated mould.

If a quotation includes additional charges, ask what they cover and whether they are one-time or recurring costs.

When comparing suppliers, review the specifications as well as the price. Two quotations are only meaningfully comparable when the product design, materials, quantity, finishing, packaging, and delivery requirements are aligned.