What to Consider When Outsourcing Your Metal Fabrication Project

Does your business have a project that requires sheet metal fabrication services?

Metal is the perfect material for many projects due to its aesthetic quality and finish, strength and durability however, how do you go about choosing the right company to ensure you get the highest quality of finish for your project?

It can be difficult to know where to start when outsourcing your sheet metal fabrication project. Firstly you must ensure that the company you choose has the capabilities to meet your business’ needs from concept to manufacture. To help make the process a little bit easier for you, we have compiled a checklist of factors that you should consider when making that all important decision.

Key Factors to Consider

Experience and Capabilities of the Contract Manufacturer

Experience matters when considering a contract manufacturing company to outsource your project too. Are they familiar with all the latest techniques and technologies that are needed to produce a high-quality project? From brake press bending, laser cutting and press work, ensure you take time to look at the range of contract manufacturing services and capabilities they can offer.

It’s also a good idea to research and understand the type of projects a potential company has worked on in the past in order to to get a good grasp on whether they could be a good fit for your project. If they work on projects or specialise in sectors that are similar to yours, you can be rest assured that they are probably capable of working on your project successfully. Further to this, you should consider the in-house capabilities of the specific contract manufacture. Consider whether your sheet metal fabrication specialist can deliver small or large volume projects. Some projects have exacting requirements where simple small prototypes are required while other projects may require large mass manufacturing.  Ensure the company you choose can do what you need them to do.

Equipment List

Take time to explore whether a contract manufacture invests in the equipment, software and plant list they have in the factory.

Technologies change frequently in the manufacturing industry so having the very best, innovative and up-to-date machinery will ensure your project is finished at high quality.

Ensure the contract manufacture you choose has the equipment available for your specific requirements too. Some companies may have to outsource some processes while some companies will have the capability to complete the whole project in-house.

Quality of the Project

Ultimately, ensuring a sheet metal fabrication company can deliver you a high-quality end project is the goal. Find out the answers to the following questions and you can have a good idea of whether quality is what you will receive.

What quality management system do they have in place?

Are they accredited by any bodies or hold any certifications?

Do they continually train and invest in their employees?

Experienced and Professional Sheet Metal Fabrication Services

Contact Dudley Industries

With years of experience, Dudley Industries can support you in delivering a high-quality bespoke sheet metal fabrication project from design to prototype to manufacture. If you would like more information, feel free to contact our helpful team who will be happy to discuss your individual project requirements.