Hey Jack,
Ken Pike here in Yuba City, California paints these cars day in and day out. Folks from all over the US send him their FFR bodies for body work and paint. He is very reasonable and does quality work. I'm sure he would be much less than your local quote even with the extra shipping.
I think FFR can just send the body directly to Ken, when your ready, and the rest of the kit to you. Ken has developed his own hinges and hood hoops which improve on the stock design.
Give him a call as you may have more options than you think. Your local quote is typical of a shop that may be quoting one of these for the first time.
www.streetrodpainter.com
Good Luck, John