Five things to consider…
Determining which steel fabricator to work with is a crucial element in the success of any project; regardless of its size or monetary value. The fabrication company that you select is going to serve as a project partner throughout the lifeline of the project – from conception through to completion. This is why it is vital to select a steel fabrication company that you can not only communicate openly with, but also place your trust in early on.
There are a few fundamental qualifications that should be taken into account when researching potential companies to partner with. Each should be carefully evaluated.
1. Longevity and experience in the Industry
2. Capabilities and access to the tools needed
3. High standards of quality
4. Knowledgeable and courteous support staff
5. Competitive costs
Longevity and experience in the industry
Trust and complete confidence are far easier to establish in a service provider that has dedicated industry experience. Being established in the industry means having developed a successful track record of successful projects. A steel fabricator who has experience completing projects similar to yours will be a valuable resource in helping you save time, money and effort by ensuring that things are done correctly this first time around.
Capabilities and access to the tools needed
Steel fabricators need not be the largest and most advanced in order to successfully finish a project, however, they do need to have access to the tools and capabilities that are required to do the job. Areas that require investigation include:
The fabricators design capabilities
The fabricators materials capabilities
The fabricators production capabilities
The fabricators facility capabilities
High standards of quality
It is likely that your search will result in multiple matches with similar experience and capabilities levels. In this situation, it is important to review the level of quality that each fabricator places in their work and their reputation in the industry. Are they reliable? Do they offer quality guarantees?
Knowledgeable and courteous support staff
With money on the table and deadlines lingering, no one wants to be left out in the dark. The best fabrications companies will:
Provide complete disclosure on timelines and targets
Offer full service project management
Deliver fast response to concerns and questions
Troubleshooting, advice and problem solving
Competitive costs
Costs will vary between companies, don’t be afraid to shop for quotes. Keep in mind that the best doesn’t necessarily mean the cheapest.
Sams Fabrications is the UK’s leading steel fabrication shop. For contact information, or to learn more, visit us online.
