Selecting the best metal stamper for an upcoming job can be a daunting task. While it’s simple to assess vendors based on cost, quality of service isn’t such an easy characteristic to evaluate—however; it should be the most important.
To help our readers better examine the quality of a potential partner, we have put together a list of some of the most important questions to ask:
1. Are you ISO 9001:2015 certified?
An ISO 9001:2015 certification, which verifies that a company is approved to provide metal stamping services,
is also a good indication that the company is committed to meeting customer requirements and industry standards. Choosing an ISO-certified vendor ensures you are working with a reliable and trusted partner, who is focused on quality throughout the entire manufacturing cycle.
2. Do you have a portfolio of past work? Do you have examples of projects within my industry?
When it comes to assessing vendor quality, past work speaks volumes. Examining a metal stamper’s portfolio illustrates their abilities, quality of work and if they have relevant experience in your industry.
3. What does your Quality Management System entail?
A credible metal stamper should be able to provide documentation, such as a Quality Assurance Manual, that clearly defines their Quality Management System and illustrates their commitment to providing quality products and services. Does your vendor have procedures in place that ensure periodic inspections and recalibrations of all measuring and test equipment? Can they provide detailed instructions on their formal inspection processes? Do they have a system in place to ensure uninspected raw material is not used?
4. Can you provide 7 to 10 references?
Most vendors have a list of their largest, most renowned clients on hand, but a simple list of company names doesn’t provide any insight on their quality of work. Don’t hesitate to request at least 7 to 10 references, and actually contact each individual. Why 7 to 10? Most companies can easily provide 1 to 3 references, who will provide a good review of the company’s past work—but do they have several customers who would give glowing recommendations?
For more information on how to evaluate potential metal stamping vendors and identify the right company for your product, we encourage you to download our eBook, Qualities of a Good Metal Stamper.
If you are interested in learning more about us, please download our HPL Stampings Company Overview, which contains all of the information needed to put us on your approved suppliers list. Our Company Overview offers an in-depth look at our company, our quality management policies, documentation procedures, and much more.
If you would like to discuss the ways in which we can assist you with an upcoming project, please contact HPL Stampings, Inc. today. We look forward to working with you.
