What do most of you do with a rod order? Do you build the rod and then ask the customer to pay in full? or do you get some amount up front? Not sure how to handle this

do a search on business and you should find a ton of info on this subject

LEGENDARY CREATIONS CUSTOM RODS
Maplewood, MN

50% down, 50% upon delivery puts you both on the hook. It's probably the most fair way to handle things.

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I guess it would depend on the customer. I only build for friends at work, and only collect after I deliver the rod. If I were building for someone I had just met, I would collect at least the amount that the components added up to. I.E. rod blank, grip, reel seat, guides, some amount for the thread and epoxy. That way, If someone stiffs you, the rod is paid for and you can sell it to someone for the amount of your labor. Should be an easy sell if the original buyer that paid for the components never showed up and all you had to do was sell the built rod for only the labor costs. There's never been a better way to increase the hourly rate you make on a rod! If anyone thinks this is unethical, how ethical is it to have someone use their time to build something and not pay them for building it.

Here's the Q&A section from my website ...

Is a deposit required to place an order?
Yes. I require a minimum 50% non-refundable deposit to accept an order for production. Any balance due must be collected before shipment or at the time delivery. 100% deposits may be required for highly specialized orders.

How long does it take to get a custom rod?
Rods are "built to order" and delivery times will be quoted upon request. Order times vary by season. The average wait time is 8-12 weeks from acceptance.

What about shipping or delivery?
Shipping charges are $25.00 for the first rod and $10.00 additional for each rod in the same order. Local delivery is available within the Tampa Bay area for a nominal fee of $20.00. All shipments are via FedEx Insured Delivery.

Don't custom rods cost a LOT more than store bought?
No. My prices are HIGHLY competitive and a much better long-term value than comparable "factory built" models. I offer vastly superior service and dozens of unique options unavailable from retail outlets. In addition, you will be supporting a local small business plus an American rod craftsman.

Jim, not sure if you are suppose to answer this but what is your website url?

With a little searching you could have found it also I think this is he : [www.dudleyrods.com]

Bill - willierods.com