Choosing a new manufacturer for your metal stamping needs can be an overwhelming prospect, but there are specific evaluative measures you can take to make sure you choose an efficient, experienced, and reliable supplier.
One of the key ways to evaluate a potential supplier is to visit their site and see their process firsthand. This can often give you insight into how efficient their manufacturing process is, which quality assurance practices they utilize, how organized the facility is, and how employers interact with potential clients.
Apart from an onsite visit, it can also be beneficial to view project samples from a potential manufacturer. If you have a specific project or specialty in mind and know exactly what type of products you’ll need from your new supplier, project samples can give you direct evidence of how a potential supplier creates and produces those pieces. Additionally, a robust profile of project samples shows that a manufacturer is willing and able to meet all types of project specifications and work with the customer on whichever pieces they need.
Evaluating staff expertise is another key part of choosing a new supplier. Communicating with staff ahead of time and having an in-depth conversation about their qualifications, background, and past projects can give you valuable insight into their respective skills and capabilities. A reliable manufacturer will be able to offer knowledgeable insight and advice about your upcoming projects, and potentially even be able to reference relevant experience.
Analyzing the technology and equipment that a manufacturing company uses can also give you insight into their capabilities. While most companies will use the standard necessities, more progressive companies will utilize advanced technology and newer processes that likely make their manufacturing process faster, more efficient, and more reliable. Analyzing these pieces of equipment and technology can ensure that you’re aware of a manufacturer’s capabilities and limitations.
Choosing a new metal stamping manufacturer doesn’t have to be overwhelming, but it can be an extensive process. Ensuring that you have a clear list of requirements and expectations can help your search run much smoother and will allow you to evaluate potential suppliers more critically.
At Bopp Busch, we work hard to be a valued supplier partner for our customers. In addition to our core stamping services, we also offer toolmaking, general assembly, and design services. To learn more about Bopp Busch and our capabilities, contact us today.
