4 Myths Busted when Selecting a Custom Metal Fabrication Company

As a purchasing manager, you will spend a lot of time evaluating outsourcing manufacturing facilities trying to find the perfect fit for your business. Selecting a custom metal fabrication company takes time and a unique understanding of the sector; you need to consider factors such as quality, on time delivery, and price. The decisions you make influence the operations of the entire company.

In your line of work, you will come across different misconceptions and myths about finding the right custom metal fabrication company. They include:

The Right Fabrication Company Equals Perfection

No company is perfect. Missteps happen, however, your custom fabricator will work with you to avoid as little interruption as possible to your project.  Clear communication from both sides will ease any fears as both parties will know exactly what is expected from the project.  It’s also important that your project is inspected before it leaves the build site.  Consider hiring a custom fabrication company that has a Certified Welder Inspector on staff or hire a third party to inspect your piece before delivery.  

Their Work Must Be As Good As Their Presentation

You will come across stellar presentations from different custom metal fabrication companies, with superior slides that will leave you in awe. However, do not let these confuse you; the expertise and resources of the marketing team do not always represent the quality of the product you will get from the custom metal fabrication unit. Look past the presentation by cross-checking with multiple references, meeting with the operations team and visiting the facility physically. The presentation is just a beginning; make sure you get an exact picture of the kind of work you can expect from potential partner companies.

The Lowest Bid Will Be the Lowest Cost Option

One major factor you have to consider at all times is the cost of manufacturing the product; however, this does not exist in isolation. You must look at the cost of the entire value chain to avoid incurring invisible costs that come by focusing solely on the custom metal fabricator’s quote. Additionally, make sure you read the fine print on every quote you are considering. Some custom metal fabrication companies will offer a low manufacturing quote, and then find ways to include additional costs to you, hidden under fees and charges. In addition, late deliveries and poor quality can cost you a lot of extra money at the job site.

All Fabricators Are the Same and Will Produce My Job Exactly the Same

No job is ever the same in custom fabrication.  Your job is unique to you and your designs. You could give your design to 5 different companies and while similar, each one will be a little different.  Look at how each company offers a solution to meet your needs. 

Effective communication will lead to a partnership of success with your fabrication company.  At Swanton Welding, our estimators and sales team work hand and hand with our shop to ensure that the needs of our clients are being met every step of the way in our projects. Call Swanton Welding today to find out how we can work together on your next custom fabrication piece.