If you've gotten a quote from a custom furniture maker and been told they require a 50% deposit to begin, you might have hesitated. Is that normal? Is it safe? What happens if something goes wrong?
Here's how deposits work in the custom furniture business and what to watch for.
When a custom furniture maker begins work on your table, they're making a significant commitment. They order your specific lumber — often a meaningful quantity of quality hardwood that costs real money. They schedule shop time. They decline other work that might conflict with your timeline.
A deposit protects against the situation where a customer changes their mind or goes silent after the maker has already spent money on materials. This happens more often than you'd think.
A 50% deposit is the most common structure in the industry. It covers materials and initial labor, and it demonstrates that the buyer is genuinely committed.
50% upfront, 50% at delivery or completion — this is the industry standard and is completely reasonable.
30% upfront, 70% at delivery — also common and slightly more favorable to the buyer. Legitimate for a larger or longer project.
No deposit required at all — unusual for custom work. If someone will start a custom table without any deposit, understand their business model and whether it's sustainable. This can be a red flag for inexperience.
Get a written contract or order confirmation before paying. It should include the specific dimensions and specifications of the piece, the materials to be used, the lead time, the payment schedule, and the maker's policy if there's a problem.
Pay by credit card if possible. This gives you recourse if the maker fails to deliver. A maker who won't accept credit card payments for a large custom order is worth asking about — though many small shops do operate cash or check only for legitimate reasons.
Do your reference check before you pay. Look for Google reviews. A deposit is a commitment on your side too.
Ready to see what a table built specifically for your home looks like? Tell us about your space and we'll put together a quote — no pressure, no obligation. Request a Quote from Luke's Furniture Company.