My client has a build to order store making custom log furniture. As his products are very large and heavy to ship he would like his customers to contact him first and get an actual shipping quote for the products they want.

This presents a few problems.

First I see now way of building that kind of flexibility into his store.

MY proposed solution would be to have the shipping of each product listed as an "estimated" shipping charge. Then collect pyaments as authorizations of the estimated amount with actual charges being plus or minus the estimated amount once my client determines the actual shipping costs.

I guess I'm looking for other solutions if anyone has any. I'm trying to come up with the best alternative for him in the long run.

Additionally they will need to be able to monitor and change their product listing and orders. Is there any type of system that can give them just access to that end of the stores administration?

Thanks
Brett