Frequently Asked Questions | Philadelphia Security Products, Inc

Keying Questions

Padlock Questions

Ordering Questions

Sales Terms & Conditions

Keying Questions

Can I order padlocks that all open with the same key?: Yes. Padlocks that can be opened with the same key are called keyed alike (KA).
What are keyed alike (KA) padlocks?: Keyed alike locks are all identical. All keys supplied in the group will open all of the padlocks in that group. Padlock models that are available keyed alike are listed as KA.
What are keyed differently (KD) padlocks?: Keyed differently padlocks are randomly selected from a limited group of padlocks with different key cuts. The number of keyed differently padlocks in the group depends upon the number of pins in the padlock cylinder and the manufacturer of the padlock. Use this table as a general guide:
3-pin cylinder: from 20 to 100 theoretical key differs
4-pin cylinder: from 200 to 1000 theoretical key differs
5-pin cylinder: from 10,000 to 14,000 theoretical key differs
6-pin cylinder: from 40,000 to 90,000 theoretical key differs
Each padlock is supplied with two keys. Padlock models that are available keyed differently are listed as KD. The only way to guarantee that there will be no duplicate keys in a group of padlocks is to request that the padlocks be registered. This service is not available for all padlock models.
What are master keyed (MK) padlocks?: Some padlock models are available keyed differently (see question above) with a master key override. The master key will open any of the padlocks in that group. The master key must be ordered separately. Padlock models that are available with master key override are listed as MK.
How many keys are included with each lock?: Two keys are included with each padlock unless otherwise noted in the product page.
Can I order padlocks keyed alike to locks from a previous order?: Yes. If you ordered padlocks from us previously, we automatically send padlocks of the same model keyed alike as the initial order when you place subsequent orders unless you request otherwise.
Can I order padlocks keyed alike to padlocks that I ordered previously from another supplier?: Yes. We can supply Master, American and Abus padlocks keyed to a specific number. Some restrictions may apply.

Padlock Questions

How do I find the padlock dimensions?: Use your mouse to point to the small padlock line drawing under the padlock photograph in the product page. The line drawing with padlock specifications will enlarge.
How do I retrieve a lost combination for a combination padlock?: A lost combination cannot be retrieved. When you reset the combination padlock, it is best to record the combination for future reference and keep it in a safe place.
What makes a padlock all weather?: A padlock is considered all weather if the padlock body, shackle and internal components are all made from materials that will not rust such as brass, stainless steel or aluminum. All padlocks including all weather padlocks should be lubricated once or twice per year with a non-petroleum based lubricant such as Padlock Lubricant to keep them functioning properly.
Is there a padlock that cannot be cut?: No. All padlocks can be cut with the correct tool. However, some padlocks have special features such as shrouded shackles and unique body shapes that make them more difficult to cut.

Ordering Questions

Are there discounted prices for larger orders?: Yes. You can view volume discounts on each product page. Be sure to select the keying option that you want from the drop down list. There may be an additional charge for some keyed alike(KA) and master keyed(MK) padlocks.
How long will it take to receive my order?: Locks shipped from our warehouse normally ship within 2-3 business days. Back ordered locks and custom keyed padlocks will be delivered in approximately two to three weeks. If you need your order by a certain date, please indicate that on your order and we will do our best to accommodate your request.
Can I choose next day or second day delivery?: Yes. You can choose to have your order shipped by UPS next day or second day air. Your order must be received by 12PM EST to ship the same day. Orders received after 12PM will ship the next business day.
Can I order products that are not listed on the web site?: Yes. We carry all products manufactured by Master Lock, American Lock and Abus Lock. Call 1-610-521-4400 for an instant price quotation or complete the online Request for Quotation form.
Do you accept purchase orders?: We accept purchase orders from schools, institutions and many businesses for stock hardware. Pre-approval is required. Orders for custom keyed padlocks and non-stock hardware may require full or partial payment with the order. Call for details.
How much is shipping?: Orders are shipped the most economical way (US mail, UPS, or Fedex). Shipping charges are dependent upon the weight of the order. Most orders over $99 ship for free.
How can I pay for my order?: We accept Visa, Mastercard and American Express credit cards. We also accept payment by eCheck, company check and ACH (electronic funds transfer).
Can I receive a written price quotation?: Written quotations are available upon request and will be emailed or faxed to you in one business day. Call 1-610-521-4400 for an instant price quotation or complete the online Request for Quotation form.
Is there a minimum order size?: There is no minimum order size for stock padlocks. Master keyed, custom keyed and non-stock padlocks may be subject to a minimum purchase quantity. Please call us for details.
Do you offer preferred customer discount coupons by email?: Yes! Join our mailing list to receive exclusive discounts, new product announcements and helpful tips via email.
Do you ship orders to Canada?: Yes, we ship orders to Canada. Shipping charges only include transportation. Duties, taxes, brokerage and other fees are not included in shipping charges. The customer is responsible for all additional taxes and fees. Orders are FOB Essington, PA.
Do you ship orders outside of North America?: Yes, we ship orders worldwide. Shipping charges only include transportation. Duties, taxes, brokerage and other fees are not included in shipping charges. The customer is responsible for all additional taxes and fees. Orders are FOB Essington, PA.

Sales Terms & Conditions

What is your return policy?: Unused stock hardware may be returned within fifteen (30) days of receipt. All returns must be accompanied by a return merchandise authorization (RMA) issued to the buyer by Philadelphia Security Products. Non-stock and custom hardware may not be returned. All sales are final. See our Terms and Conditions for more details.
Is there a product warranty?: Yes. All merchandise is warranted against defect by the manufacturer. Read each manufacturer's warranty in Terms & Conditions.