What are questions to ask before outsourcing a steel project?
- What is your level of experience?
- What internal process do they use in steel fabrication?
- What equipment or tools do they use?
- Do you have any specializations?
- What is your current capacity?
Various projects require steel fabrication that is best left to outsourced manufacturers. They can cut, bend, and assemble parts of steel, and they’ll transform it into the product that you need.
When looking for the fabricator for your project, you should never settle for those who’ll provide you with low prices and quick production. There are questions to ask before outsourcing a steel project. This will assure you that you’re leaving this project in the right hands.
What is your level of experience?
The number of years a steel fabricator has been operational does not tell you about their level of experience. Instead, ask about their past projects and the different people whom they’ve worked with.
You can ask them for a portfolio to see if they’ve worked on projects similar to the one you’re looking to outsource. It can be tricky to work with a company that does not provide a portfolio of its past work.
Asking for client testimonials and references is another way you can get more information about them. Experienced steel fabricators should have many people who are willing to speak on their behalf.
By doing this, you’ll have an idea of their real level of experience. You’ll be more confident with your choice with a fabricator that’s confident with their completed projects.
What internal process do they use in steel fabrication?
As a potential customer, you should be able to inquire about their internal and implemented processes. If they’re able to provide this, it shows that they have the experience you’re looking for. A well-implemented internal process easily helps you differentiate between those who know what they’re doing and who doesn’t.
In the steel fabrication industry, there are some who prefer doing things manually while others have adapted automated processes thanks to the equipment they have.
This can also be a chance for you to ask about their safety processes and standards. Knowing these will assure you that there will be fewer mistakes in creating your steel project.
What equipment or tools do they use?
The tools and equipment of a steel fabricator are not something you should overlook. These show what they are capable of making and producing.
Take a look at the infrastructure of your potential fabricator. When you spot innovative tools on the premise like a beamline, it shows you that are able to finish products without delays. You can also look for new punch presses and lasers to see if they have new forms of equipment.
It’s difficult to entrust your steel fabrication project to companies that have outdated equipment. This can cause future delays because of the wear of old equipment.
The newer and more innovative the equipment of a steel fabricator then the better quality they can provide for you.
How do you hire your staff?
Aside from the process and tools, the right steel fabricator should provide you with guidelines on how they hire their staff.
Their hiring policies and guidelines tell you whether they hire certified workers and welders. This is a good indicator of the quality of products they produce.
What is your current capacity?
Ask if they have the capacity to take on your project. Steel fabricators may be dealing with a high volume of clients. Assess if they’ll have enough workers to work on your project especially if you’re dealing with a larger project.
They should be able to give you a timeline for your project. It’s good to go with a company that can give you the steps they’ll take for you. This can also show if they’ll be able to meet the deadlines you have set for your own company.
Do you provide finishing?
Finishing is the final step in steel fabrication. In this last step, the final metal products are given an extra layer of durability. It does not only provide aesthetics but also increases its durability and resistance.
A company that provides in-house finishing is likely to produce more superior metal products. Check if the steel fabricator offers this service. This way you can know if you’ll need to find another company for your product’s finishing.
Key Takeaway
These are 5 questions to ask before outsourcing a steel project. Don’t settle with a steel fabrication that does not have equipment and experience. You also need to ensure that they provide the proper process and experienced workers for the job.
If you’re looking for someone to outsource a steel project, work with Regan Industrial Sales, Inc.. We are a reputable steel company and the top construction supplier in the Philippines, committed to providing high-quality metal products to clients. Contact us today to learn more about our customer metal and fabrication services.
