How To Choose a Manufacturer

QUESTIONS TO ASK A SHEET METAL FABRICATOR

A lot of research goes into choosing a sheet metal manufacturer. The company should collaborate with you to pinpoint your needs, find the best solution, execute accordingly and—ideally—can be a one-stop shop for all your metal fab needs.

To get an accurate picture of a manufacturer’s abilities and what working with them will be like, there are three critical questions we recommend you ask when vetting manufacturers.

WHAT IS THE MANUFACTURER’S CAPACITY?

Start out by asking the manufacturer for their project minimums. This is the most straightforward way to get a ballpark sense of their capacity for products. Can they handle both short and medium runs?

Ask for more details about the companies this precision sheet metal fabricator works with. This will give you a better idea about both their capacity, the size of customer they typically work with and the types of industries they usually serve. This will give you a better understanding of what the manufacturer considers a good fit for them.

WHAT QUALITY STANDARDS AND CERTIFICATIONS DOES THE MANUFACTURER MEET?

Manufacturers should be able to tell you the steps they take throughout their processes to ensure quality and consistency. This will shed light not just on the caliber of their products, but also on the extent of their transparency. Check their website, too, to see what details they readily share.

While you’re on their website, search for certifications they have achieved, and be on the lookout for ISO certification. Manufacturers who are ISO certified are proven to have high-quality, efficient and consistent operations.

WHAT IS THE MANUFACTURER’S INDUSTRY REPUTATION?

Thanks to the internet, it’s easier than ever to research companies. What’s their web presence like? Do they educate audiences online via their webpage and social media sites? What have past clients said about them?

Feel free to bring any negative information up with company representatives, such as your sales rep, to see how they’ve responded to customer problems in the past.

We’re proud of the reviews our customers have given us. Our award-winning team stays focused on nimble design, reliable products and outstanding service. Tusco is a “find a better way” company—let’s work together to answer your questions and create your next display.