Sheet metal manufacturing is a booming industry and as a result several companies offering sheet metal products and services have surfaced lately. There is fierce competition among these companies as each one wants to grab more projects to do better business. All of them claim to offer the best price, top quality services and high quality products. While some are true to their words others aren’t doing as good a job. However, it can be difficult to tell the good and the not-so-good apart. In order to get a better understanding about how well a sheet metal manufacturing company can help you with your task, you must ask them a few important questions.
Here is a look at these questions:
- How long have you been in the industry?
You may have researched about the company before you have reached them. However, to be doubly sure you must ask this question to start with. Experience plays an important role in this industry. You must thus know the number of years your prospective vendor has been in business.
- How many clients have you served so far?
Experience is not calculated merely on the basis of the number of years one has been in the industry. It is also gauged based on the number of clients it has served over the years. Each client/ project teaches something new and adds to the experience.
- Which equipments and techniques do you use to fabricate sheet metal?
No matter how experienced or skilled a company is, if it is still hung up with old tools and techniques, it will not be able to offer the latest style products and services. Besides, it will also take more time to spin the products and provide the services. Technology is advancing quickly and only those who upgrade themselves with the changing times can offer good services. Asking this question will help you understand the kind and quality of services your potential vendor shall be able to provide.
- Can I get the contact details of few of your clients?
It is a good idea to inquire about the names of the companies as well as the individual clients it has served until now. You may even go a step further and ask the contact details of these clients so that you can speak to them personally to get a first hand feedback.
- Do you provide installation services?
Most sheet metal manufacturers provide installation services. However, you must still ask the question to be sure. Besides, you must also confirm if installation charges will be included in the product charges or will it be charged separately. This is the time when you can negotiate and get installation service as a part of the package.
- Do you offer customised solutions?
Most projects require customised sheet metal products. If you are planning such a project, you must enquire whether the manufacturers you are short listing provide custom solutions or not.
- Can you share the price estimate?
It is best to get a price estimate beforehand. After all, this is one of the major deciding factors while choosing any service. So, do not forget this question. Ask them to be genuine and precise while providing information about the same.
- Have you employed all the safety measures at your workplace?
Sheet metal industries must have certain safety measures employed at their workplace. Lack of it may cause accidents that can delay the completion of your project.
Asking the aforementioned questions will give a clear idea about the working style of the various sheet metal manufacturers you have shortlisted. You will know just how well suited they are for your project and who amongst them can serve you best. However, do not rely on all they say. Do some background-check too!
