Making rushed decisions on any major purchase or commitment often leads to doubt and regret. The process for selecting a metal fabrication partner for your ongoing projects shouldn’t be shortcut either. You aren’t just buying services but are entering a relationship that must have open communication and be mutually beneficial.
Choosing an Ohio metal fabricator without being well informed can set back production and increase your costs. Weigh these 10 considerations when vetting a fabrication company to find the one that best fits your needs.
1. Experience
Number of years in business isn’t the only important indicator of a fabricator’s expertise. A fabricator’s understanding of the industry, part types and various project sizes should matter just as much as years of experience. A metal fabricator with demonstrated experience developing similar parts demonstrates their ability to tackle your project’s unique priorities.
2. Capabilities
Every fabricator is different, and in turn, their capabilities may vary. Some metalworkers are better suited for more complex, smaller production runs while other operations are automated for high volume projects. Can the fabricator finish a project entirely in-house including the ability to form, machine and cut? How about additional services like punching, welding and finishing with powder coating? Each supplier will have a sweet spot and finding the one with the right mix of capabilities is key.
3. Equipment
To stay competitive, metal fabricators must continually upgrade equipment while keeping an eye on future technologies that can better your project results.
New and updated technology such as laser cutting, will allow for an edge in quality, efficiency, and production.
4. Engineering
Does your metalworker have the staff and knowledge to offer pre-fabrication services, such as engineering? Most projects can benefit from in-house engineering consulting prior to production. At Alloy, we have staffed engineers that can advise on part design, material and process to drive efficiency and lower cost.
5. Longevity
While number of years in business isn’t the most important consideration when selecting a fabricating supplier, it can demonstrate a successful track record. Companies which have been in operation for decades must be meeting and exceeding the expectations of their customers. Longevity also goes hand in hand with experience – the more work a firm does, the more knowledge and expertise they develop.
6. Production Time
Turnaround times are always a factor to consider when deciding which vendor should be awarded your metalworking project. You need a fabrication partner that fits your part volume needs, but also delivers on schedule. While consistent, reliable turnaround will keep your standard projects running smoothly, don’t forgot to ask how a potential metal fabricator reacts to emergency requests.
7. Price
Price of services is an obvious consideration to keep in mind. Every project has a budget to meet, but price shouldn’t be the only point of scrutiny, as it can also impact quality and value. Sometimes the old saying rings true – you get what you pay for.
Ask your prospective partners what cost-cutting considerations they offer to customers.
8. Communication
Transparency and communication are vital to any partnership. Regardless of a metal fabricator’s experience and skills, all are susceptible to encountering unexpected issues and making mistakes. In these situations, it is essential that a supplier is forthright and honest about the status of any project.
9. Leadership
Behind any successful organization, you can typically find equally successful leadership. Management teams that ensure employees follow and adhere to established procedures and protocols are more likely to meet or exceed client expectations regarding quality and timeliness. Strong leadership is a solid sign that the best people are in place to oversee and develop your projects.
10. Quality Processes
The right metal fabricating partner will have the proper standards, processes, and procedures in place to meet a high level of quality work. Researching their quality assurance policies, such as monitoring and testing, will provide insight into a fabricator’s commitment to error-free parts.
There are many factors to evaluate when selecting the right metal fabrication partner but weighing the above considerations will also be helpful as you make your decision. Give us a call at 330-948-3535 or contact us today to learn more about Alloy Fabricators and our ability to meet your metal fabricating needs.