How to Order Metal Online (Step-by-Step)

Ordering metal online is faster than calling a distributor, more flexible than buying off the shelf, and doesn't require a minimum order. But if you've never done it before, or if the supplier you've used before had a clunky process, it helps to know what to expect.

Here's how the ordering process works at MetalNow, step by step.

Step 1: Find Your Material

Start in the catalog. You can browse by metal type (steel, aluminum, stainless, brass, copper) or by shape (round bar, flat bar, plate, sheet, square bar, tubing, structural). Most shops already know what they need, so the fastest path is to filter by material and shape and go straight to the size you're looking for.

If you're not sure which material or grade is right for your application, the Rivet AI assistant can help. Describe the part and what it needs to do, and Rivet will give you a specific material recommendation.

Step 2: Enter Your Dimensions

Once you've selected a material and shape, enter the length (and width, if relevant) you need. The price updates instantly based on your exact specs. No waiting for a quote, no calling anyone. What you see is what you'll pay.

If you need multiple pieces of the same size, adjust the quantity. If you need different sizes, add each to your cart separately.

Step 3: Review and Add to Cart

Before adding to cart, double-check your dimensions and quantity. Once the order is placed, cuts are made to spec and can't be reversed. Review the material grade and any notes about the piece.

You can add multiple items to a single order — different metals, different shapes, different sizes all in one cart. Everything ships together.

Step 4: Check Out

At checkout, you'll choose shipping or local pickup. If you're in the Salt Lake City area and need material the same day, pickup is the fastest option. For shops outside Utah, we ship nationwide via standard freight.

Payment is processed at checkout. For established accounts, we offer net terms — contact us if you'd like to set that up.

Step 5: Your Order Gets Cut and Shipped

After checkout, your order goes into the cut queue. Material is cut to your exact dimensions, checked, and packaged before shipping. You'll get a tracking number once it's on its way.

Turnaround time depends on order size and complexity. Most standard orders ship within one to two business days.

A Few Tips Before You Order

Check that you've selected the right temper or condition. For 6061 aluminum, the most common choice is T6 (general machining) or T651 (stress-relieved for large plate cuts). For 4140 steel, annealed is easier to machine; prehard skips the heat treat step.

Add a small amount of extra length to your order if you need a clean, tight-tolerance starting blank. Saw cuts leave a small amount of material that usually gets faced off anyway.

If you're ordering for a production run and need material traceability, let us know at checkout and we'll include mill certs with your order.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an account to order?

You can browse and price materials without an account. To check out, you'll need to create a free account. It takes about a minute and lets you track orders, view order history, and save material lists.

Is there a minimum order?

No. One piece, one cut is a completely normal order. You're never required to buy more than your job needs.

How accurate are the cuts?

Standard saw cuts are accurate to plus or minus 1/16 inch, which is suitable for most machine shop use as a starting blank. If you need tighter tolerances on your starting stock, reach out and we'll discuss options.

Can I change or cancel an order after placing it?

Contact us immediately at 801-539-8252. If the cut hasn't been made yet, we can usually make changes. Once the material is cut, changes are not possible.