SMS Auto Fabrics

[v8fordman]

Just wondering if anyone has any experience with SMS Auto Fabrics? I placed an order months ago and haven’t received it. When I call they chastise me for not putting my inquiry into an email. They tell me the owner will get back with me, but only once has anyone ever responded. Customer service at its finest I guess?

[std1940]

Sounds Familiar!

[Bob C]

Sounds like you are not alone, see the BBB link.
https://www.bbb.org/us/or/canby/prof...ints#323873203


Bob

[rotorwrench]

They are likely in a state of flux right now since they are trying to purchase the LeBarron Bonney holdings. Hopefully they will get back on line sometime this century.

[Newc]

SMS is 15 miles from me. I can shake the door for you! Newc

[FortyNiner]

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In my experince, organizations with a multi-year history of misleading and disappointing customers don't get better; they tend to just get more desperate. Stay away.

[Branded]

Only had one experience with SMS and it was horrible. Had them make a sewn to fit carpet for a 49 Dodge Wayfarer Convertible. All I can say I wouldn’t have them make me a door mat after the fiasco I went through.

[V8COOPMAN]

Hmmmm….Makes me wonder if it's not a ploy to acquire the remnants (mostly the name) of LB to use in future advertising as fake bragging rights to bilk MORE folks out of their hard-earned dollars.... before the ultimate expose of their true MO. DD

[paul2748]

I bought some material twice and had no problems. They sent me samples the first time with no problems either.

[V8COOPMAN]

Originally Posted by paul2748

I bought some material twice and had no problems. They sent me samples the first time with no problems either.

Well they sure didn't accommodate the folks on that BBB report like they did for you! DD

[v8fordman]

Actually, I am only buying material. First, I was told it was in stock and would be shipped immediately. Last week, I was told it would be shipped after the first of the year. By the way, the order was placed in May. It must be difficult to find what was in stock. I've also been told they were having it made; then it was made, but the color didn't meet their quality control. I wish I had asked you guys before ordering. I'll keep you informed.

[Branded]

Originally Posted by v8fordman

Actually, I am only buying material. First, I was told it was in stock and would be shipped immediately. Last week, I was told it would be shipped after the first of the year. By the way, the order was placed in May. It must be difficult to find what was in stock. I've also been told they were having it made; then it was made, but the color didn't meet their quality control. I wish I had asked you guys before ordering. I'll keep you informed.

Sounds like things haven’t changed, and they want 100% payment upfront. Once they have your money you no longer matter. They usually don’t t answer the phone, you leave a message on the answering machine, send e mail that never get answered.

[JimNNN]

Sorry for your poor service and order uncertainty. I ordered some SMS material that fairly closely matched stuff in my Ranch Wagon about a dozen years ago, and I don't recall any problems with them sending the product, but that was a while ago. I thought they sold mostly NOS material. Apparently not. If you ordered NOS, there's no reason in heck why it shouldn't have arrived by now. If you ordered replica material and they're waiting on the manufacturer, there really isn't much you can do, I guess. I doubt they're actually trying to rip you off.

[DavidG]

Eight months just to get two small swatches of vinyl of in-stock material hoping for match (neither was close to the piece that I sent them); some service. If the existing staff isn't up to the task either through inclination or lack of experience or insufficient numbers, will adding adding the LeBaron Bonney materials and patterns result in a turnaround in customer service? That has to be the worst bet of 2020.

[swoopNZ]

Better to find a local upholstery shop and view their samples, then get them to order what you need.
Works well down here.
Chris.NZ.

[redmodelt]

RE buying LeBarron Bonney

I read on a posting on Fordbarn that Mac's was buying LeBarron?

[petehoovie]

Originally Posted by redmodelt

RE buying LeBarron Bonney
I read on a posting on Fordbarn that Mac's was buying LeBarron?

Yes, I read on another forum that the bankruptcy judge awarded the LB inventory to Ecklers, MAC's parent company...

[Kube]

Originally Posted by FortyNiner

In my experince, organizations with a multi-year history of misleading and disappointing customers don't get better; they tend to just get more desperate. Stay away.

I agree 100%.
This is sad as they are one of two bidding on the remnants of the lebaron business. Unfortunately, the other is Ecklers, and if Pete is correct, we are all in trouble - Ecklers doesn't exactly have a stellar reputation.

[alanwoodieman]

I have had dealings with both companies in the past. SMS took over 9 months to make a set of seat covers for a Z 28 but they had the original comfort weave materiel and they look great. I have in the past bought from LB for numerous 40/36/35/48 Fords and before Lee Atherton let his son in law run the business had no trouble, the few I bought from them after that was like pulling the proverbial hens teeth. Ecklers has the same reputation. Maybe a Chinese company could do better!!!!

[TJ]

Some years ago SMs had a decent reputation. it all comes down to who is running the company now. Exactly what happened to LB.

[rotorwrench]

I only bought fabric from SMS and had no trouble in years past but I've noticed a change within the last 8 years or so. I don't know if they lost a key person in their management or what but they don't stock as much of the material as they used to. They were the only supply for my Mercury projects but they don't have that stuff anymore either.

Times change and unfortunately many times it's for the worse. If they want to make any money at all, they better get on the stick or they will end up just like LB did, overextended, making promises they can't keep, and selling second rate product.

[Branded]

Originally Posted by TJ

Some years ago SMs had a decent reputation. it all comes down to who is running the company now. Exactly what happened to LB.

LB went bankrupt a few months ago. Liquidation is in progress

[35fordtn]

Originally Posted by Kube

I agree 100%.
This is sad as they are one of two bidding on the remnants of the lebaron business. Unfortunately, the other is Ecklers, and if Pete is correct, we are all in trouble - Ecklers doesn't exactly have a stellar reputation.

Personally, I would have rather seen Eckler's get it.. Eckler's while not the best, as some positives. I have ordered a total of 5 Cartuoche upholstery sets from Cartouche/Ecklers. While the quality was not that of Lebaron Bonney; the turnaround time was quick (3-6 weeks) and ANY issues that arose were fixed in a timely manner.... That's just my experience and others vary..

[Tom-MI]

Has anyone ever reported their problems with SMS to SMS' State Attorney General? In most states Attorney Generals are empowered to keep an eye out for bad or illegal business activities operating within their State. I can't imagine SMS ignoring them.

Just a thought

Tom

[Branded]

Originally Posted by 35fordtn

Personally, I would have rather seen Eckler's get it.. Eckler's while not the best, as some positives. I have ordered a total of 5 Cartuoche upholstery sets from Cartouche/Ecklers. While the quality was not that of Lebaron Bonney; the turnaround time was quick (3-6 weeks) and ANY issues that arose were fixed in a timely manner.... That's just my experience and others vary..

Folks I work for part time doing repairs and service on Model A’s only, have used Cartouche for years and have had good experiences with them. Granted the quality is different than Labaron Bonney but Cartouche will make attempts to make things right and don’t leave you held up for months at a time. I agree, I’m hoping SMS doesn’t get what left of the LB business.

[Deuce-Addict]

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I have bought NOS material on three occasions from SMS and have to date not had any issues with supply. Always dealt with a chap called Doug who has been pretty helpful. Normally replies to mails promptly so for those awaiting material may be worth putting his name in the subject line.

[V8COOPMAN]

Originally Posted by Deuce-Addict

Always dealt with a chap called Doug who has been pretty helpful. Normally replies to mails promptly so for those awaiting material may be worth putting his name in the subject line.

That almost wreaks of that QUID PRO QUO stuff if you have to beg some particular Doug-dude to do you a favor for something you've already paid dearly for. In fact, that's just downright BS! DD

[Deuce-Addict]

Originally Posted by V8COOPMAN

That almost wreaks of that QUID PRO QUO stuff if you have to beg some particular Doug-dude to do you a favor for something you've already paid dearly for. In fact, that's just downright BS! DD

Fair point, perhaps I should delete my thread, I have no connection with them and was only trying to be of help with those struggling to get an answer.

[rotorwrench]

I'm not sure what Eckler's relationship with Cartouche is. If they own it, they already have a brand that they could improve on. It's listed as a Mac's divisional company. If it is a subcontractor then I can see why they might want LB but I don't know.

Corporate run companies like Eckler's tend to only concentrate on the core business products that make the most profit. LB never offered upholstery for any of the plain mid century Mercs (49-51). They only offered it for the convertibe models which are completely different that the sedans & coupes. They had a decent list of Ford models but there are more of them out there than the Mercs. I'm concerned that any corporate owner would continue that and possible even discontinue some of the original offerings since they weren't big money producers. At least SMS had the materials I needed when I had to sew my own stuff. From what I've seen on their web-site, they no longer offer that material. What happens now is a Big Mystery.

[v8fordman]

Originally Posted by Deuce-Addict

I have bought NOS material on three occasions from SMS and have to date not had any issues with supply. Always dealt with a chap called Doug who has been pretty helpful. Normally replies to mails promptly so for those awaiting material may be worth putting his name in the subject line.

Every time I have called, the person on the phone always has to talk to Doug and have him get back with me. I haven't talked to Doug yet and have waited patiently since May. Doug must be one busy guy...especially since their phone message says they have "a high volume of calls" and if you have an inquiry, to send an email. Now I understand why there is such a high volume of calls.

After reading what others have gone through and the BBB reports, I think they must have some serious issues.

[35fordtn]

V8fordman,
While this topic got off track, My one and only transaction with SMS was for material for a 1955 Ford. After them missing the deadline by 8 weeks it took daily phone calls to annoy them to death to finally get my order in shipment. I sincerely hope they realize by purchasing Lebaron Bonney that their call volume will likely double..

[v8fordman]

Just an update...As of today, my order has been in place for 14 months and no material has been delivered. Last month (7/23/2020) I requested a refund and received an email message from them that they would "cancel and refund". Still haven't heard from "Doug" either.

I would suggest that anyone who has the idea to purchase from or use SMS in any form or fashion, DON"T!!!!

[Branded]

Originally Posted by v8fordman

Just an update...As of today, my order has been in place for 14 months and no material has been delivered. Last month (7/23/2020) I requested a refund and received an email message from them that they would "cancel and refund". Still haven't heard from "Doug" either.

I would suggest that anyone who has the idea to purchase from or use SMS in any form or fashion, DON"T!!!!

I’ve dealt with SMS one time and it was the worse experience I’ve ever had. Avoid SMS at all cost.

[Zeke3]

Thanks for the update. Sorry that they couldn't deliver for you and the rest of the hobby looking for a replacement for L-B.

[54Merc]

I paid up front for a complete interior. It took 18 months to get the order complete. I had to threaten going to the BBB before they took me seriously. The carpet was not Taylored to fit around the steering column, even though it was supposed to be a fit for the 54 Merc. They also send a wrong sized package tray and it was not the correct color. They never returned phone calls or made any attempt to satisfy my questions as to why it took so long. By the way they even had a sale after my order as if they were trying to get more orders.

[Branded]

Originally Posted by 54Merc

I paid up front for a complete interior. It took 18 months to get the order complete. I had to threaten going to the BBB before they took me seriously. The carpet was not Taylored to fit around the steering column, even though it was supposed to be a fit for the 54 Merc. They also send a wrong sized package tray and it was not the correct color. They never returned phone calls or made any attempt to satisfy my questions as to why it took so long. By the way they even had a sale after my order as if they were trying to get more orders.

Sounds like nothing has changed with SMS. They’ll lie and avoid you like the plague once they have your money.

[Randy in ca]

From their 2022 website:

"If you ever feel you are not getting the service you desire from SMS Auto Fabrics, please feel free to e-mail me personally at [email protected]. I will answer your questions and get back to you as soon as possible."
Doug Pollock, owner

Most of the posts here are more than a couple of years old. Has anyone recently had problems and attempted to contact the owner via email?

[Branded]

Originally Posted by Randy in ca

From their 2022 website:

"If you ever feel you are not getting the service you desire from SMS Auto Fabrics, please feel free to e-mail me personally at [email protected]. I will answer your questions and get back to you as soon as possible."
Doug Pollock, owner

Most of the posts here are more than a couple of years old. Has anyone recently had problems and attempted to contact the owner via email?

The only way I could get Doug to respond or anyone else for that matter was when I went to their Facebook page and gave them a unfavorable review. A local automotive upholstery shop near me had the same experience when purchasing material from SMS. He said never again !

[Branded]

Do a Google search on reviews on SMS Auto Fabrics and read all the nightmares others have had with this company.

[Ford Freak]

Well, I guess I will cross SMS off my list of suplliers! - F F Thanks for the warning, guys!

[eric huffman]

I have used them many times over the years so here's my thoughts.
Great selection of all types of materials and they have never failed to find me either an exact match up or close enough for the wide variety of vehicles that I have needed material for.
Samples always sent with in a few weeks.
Waiting for product can take many weeks or longer.
I stopped in once when I was in the area for a pickup. Took me an hour to have someone find the product and bring it up to the front end.
VERY disorganized with a careless crew and attitude.
Will I continue to use them? Sure unless someone knows of a supplier who has such a vast inventory of hard to find materials. The more companies that fall out the less choices you have.

[woodiewagon46]

I have gotten the runaround from both SMS and Ecklers. When LeBaron-Bonney went out of business, they were the only place that 66" wide Cobra Grain roof material used on station wagons was available. My self and three other Woodie owners wanted to purchase the entire roll and dole it out to other Woodie owners that needed it. One of the guy's had an in with an ex employee of LB and was giving us inside info. At that time everything was in litigation and nothing could be sold. We gave them all our contact info and never heard a word from anyone. As to SMS and Ecklers, I placed a call to both looking for the 66" material. After being assured that both had the 66" material, I called a friend and figured out how much we wanted to order. When we tried to place the order we were told "we don't have 66", it only comes in 54" widths. I don't think everyone at SMS or Ecklers is on the same page.

[Scott52]

I asked for samples of various fabrics that were shown on their website as I trying to match the faded vinyl of my 1952 Ford. I got the samples and was not satisfied with the match. I emailed and they asked me what car I was doing and said they had the exact original material I stock. Doug even gave me 10% discount when inquired if the other samples were cheaper. I purchased the material in Aug of 2021 and today them I would pick it up at their location. I live in CA and my niece moved to 15 miles from their location. In Canby OR. I arrived 8 months later and the material was right on their will call shelf. Just My good experience. They have a huge warehouse of fabric