Where are they located?
When choosing a steel fabricator, location is very important. Often people forgo local services because they have found a cheaper option, but this often costs much more time and fuss. A good quality steel fabricator will be determined to build the best possible product, so make sure they are willing to travel to your work site if necessary.
What certifications do they hold?
Steel fabricators should hold current Certification for Fabrication Sheet Metal (NSW) or Welding (QLD) certificates where applicable. These certs ensure that the company has stringent practices in place for both equipment & personnel safety. They can also tell you how up-to-date their fabrication methods are as well as any special installation requirements.
What is their fabrication style?
Some companies work with a simple ‘build it and they will come’ approach. Their aim is to get the product built quickly without too much overthinking, whereas others take a more detailed, bespoke approach to building. Do your research before going into any contract so you know exactly what to expect.
How long have they been in business?
This will indicate how reliable & trustworthy they are as a business. You want them around for years to come, not just until the project has been completed!
How will my steel be stored?
If being stored on-site this should be covered in your contract terms & conditions. A good quality fabricator will store all equipment inside when not in use. If the steel will need to be stored off-site, ensure it is covered in your contract and that there is no additional storage fee incurred.
A good steel fabricator should: – Hold current Certification for Fabrication Sheet Metal (NSW) or Welding (QLD) certificates where applicable – Allow you to visit their fabrication plant at any stage of the project if needed – Guarantee a strict safety policy for all equipment and personnel used on site – Ensure your maximum protection throughout the entire process from design to installation.
Financial Stability
The financial stability of a metal fabrication company is as important as its technical knowledge. Your project may require the fabrication company to hire more technicians, increase their production capacity, and invest in new technology. Only a company with sound financial health can provide for these expenses.
Besides, a financially stable organization pays its employees the best wages and clears supplier’s dues on time. In other words, such a company can afford to hire the best talent and get the best raw material required for your project.
Ask the company about its financial strategy for handling your project. Are they going to use a line of credit? How and when do they pay their suppliers? What are their good financial practices? Can they share their profit and loss accounts details with you? Get answers to all these questions before signing the deal.
In addition to time served in the industry, you also need to know how experienced their current staff is, and what type of projects they have handled till date. (Courtesy: Pixabay)
Customer Service and More
Customer service is at the heart of building a long-term relationship with a metal fabrication company. While you may not be able to find out much about their customer service initially, talking to its ex-customers and existing ones is a good idea.
Ask about their experience in dealing with the company, the transparency involved in their communication, and the willingness of the fabrication company to align with customer requirements. All these factors mean the timely completion of your project and fewer mistakes.
Not all metal fabrication companies are made equal. So, you need to choose the right one carefully. However, choosing a metal fabrication company suitable for your next project doesn’t have to be a bumpy ride. Keeping these seven tips in mind should help you find a match. Although you shouldn’t compromise any of these factors, you can prioritize them depending on your budget, location, and any other restrictions. Good luck!
https://www.steel.org.au/about-us/our-industry/