How to choose a workshop for a job: what to check besides price

Start with fit

Ask whether the workshop regularly makes parts like yours: in your material, at your size and quantity. A workshop that does this work every week will usually quote more accurately and make fewer mistakes than one trying it for the first time.

Things worth checking

• Machines and capacity: size, number of axes, tonnage and how busy they are.
• Inspection: how they measure, and what reports they can give.
• Materials: whether they buy certified material, and can provide certificates.
• Experience: parts they have made that are like yours, and references if you need them.
• Communication: clear, quick answers to your questions before you order.
• Delivery: a realistic date, and how they tell you about delays.

Start small if you can

For a new workshop, consider a small first order. It costs little, and shows you their quality, delivery and how they work with you before you commit a large job.

Agree it in writing

Whatever you agree on, such as price, quantity, delivery date, quality checks and payment terms, write it down and confirm it in the chat or by message. Clear agreements avoid most disputes.

Kinds of work

• Die making
• Mold making
• CNC machining
• Casting
• Fabrication