Custom metal fabrication is a process that involves cutting, forming, welding and shearing different types of metal, from sheet metal to metal pipes, and additional processes or treatments, such as sandblasting or plating, are often necessary to produce the final product. These processes use different types of equipment and require different skillsets. Consider following these tips for your custom metal fabrication needs.

Reviews

It may be unlikely that you know individuals who have contracted a fabricator for a custom metal product, but if you do, ask these people for referrals. They will be able to tell you how the process went and their opinions of the company and product. You may also search for online reviews and testimonials.

When you have found a few fabricators, search the Better Business Bureau for their rating and any disputes that may be unresolved. You may also contact your local chamber of commerce.

Experience

Search for well-established companies or individuals who have been in the industry for a long period of time. Find out the types of projects they have done in the past and if these skills are transferrable to your project. Learn about their specializations. For example, you don’t want to have a small metal part fabricated by someone who regularly creates staircases or steel beams.

Assets

Ask about the financial stability of your prospective fabricators. Also, do the companies have the workforce necessary to complete your project on time? What equipment does the company have? Learn about their facilities and capabilities before signing a contract.

Price

Get multiple quotes. Although you should compare your quotes, looking for especially high or low quotes as outliers, you do not want to place too much emphasis on price. You want a high-quality product within a reasonable timeframe, and the companies’ experience and capabilities may impact the price they quote you.

Do you have a hard-to-find part or new product you want produced? Consider consulting a metal fabricator.