WebKeys

Mail-order replacement keys cut to code from Macclesfield

WebKeys operates a postal key-cutting service built around a simple premise: a customer supplies the code stamped on a key or lock face, or a clear photograph of the key, and receives a newly cut replacement by post. The company describes itself as a UK supplier of replacement keys cut from code and states that its locksmiths work with precision cutting machines to reproduce keys quickly and accurately.

The operation is based at 7 Windmill Street, Macclesfield, Cheshire, and combines an online catalogue with direct advice by email and messaging when a customer cannot identify the right reference.

How the ordering process works

The website is organised around a key search tool. A visitor enters the number found on the key or on the lock face and is directed to the corresponding listing. Where the code or key series is not listed, the company invites customers to send a photograph of the key so that one of its MLA-approved locksmiths can identify it and advise on the correct replacement.

Budget and express delivery options are presented as available on most orders, and payment is handled through Stripe over an SSL-secured site.

Key ranges by setting

The catalogue is divided into broad categories that reflect where the original key is used:

• Household keys: domestic door keys, mortice keys, padlock keys, window keys, garage door keys, caravan keys and household roof rack keys.
• Office keys: cupboard, desk, filing cabinet, locker and tambour unit keys.
• Commercial keys: alarm, disabled door, fire brigade, roof rack, switch, tool box, utility, van storage and vending or arcade machine keys.
• Plant keys: dumper, excavator, fork lift, switch and tractor keys.
• Security keys and a general accessories section.

Manufacturers covered

WebKeys states that it cuts replacement keys for a long list of manufacturers, among them Lowe and Fletcher, Ronis, Thule, Bisley, Rhino, Eurolocks, Yale, Union, Chubb, Brisant Ultion and Cisa Astral, alongside many other key makers. The range therefore spans domestic door hardware, office furniture locks, roof bars and roof boxes, and commercial or plant equipment.

Customer feedback and service record

The site displayed a rating of "Excellent" based on 187 reviews attributed to Google at the time of writing this profile. The published comments repeatedly refer to speed of delivery, the possibility of ordering from a photograph when the reference number is unknown, and keys that fitted on arrival. Individual accounts describe replacement keys for Thule roof bars and roof boxes, ERA keys, window locks and office desk keys, including one case in which an order was resent after the first delivery failed to arrive.

Seasonal closure

Orders placed during that period were to be processed but not dispatched until the reopening date.