Top 5 Must-Haves for a U.S. Supplier

Although the days when your buyers routinely looked offshore to purchase deep drawn components are fading, it’s essential that U.S. manufacturers keep on top of the game by providing their customers with the best possible combination of service, quality and price. Here are five must-haves for a U.S. supplier.

Consistent Supply

With today’s focus on lean manufacturing, it’s essential that deliveries are made on time: they should be neither early nor late. Suppliers should be able to demonstrate a consistent track record of on-time delivery. Additionally, components supplied should be exactly to the order specification and in the right quantity. Manufacturers should be able to offer reasonable lead times to their customers.

Quality

Suppliers should operate a recognized and audited quality management system that ensures full traceability of materials sourced and shows processes are correctly followed during manufacture of components. The supplier should be able to demonstrate an ability to achieve acceptable fall-off rates?. Additionally, customer reject rates should be low and predictable.

Technical Capability

Deep drawing of components is an industry that requires substantial technical competence, especially with regard to tooling and die manufacturing use . It’s also crucial the supplier has the technical capability to understand their processes and to be able to select and, if necessary, modify hydraulic presses and other equipment to have the capability to perform deep drawing. These are specialist skills that take years to develop.

Competitive Pricing

It has already been demonstrated that it’s a fallacy to assume that manufacture in low-cost countries results in competitive pricing of components once all associated costs are factored in. However, this is not an excuse for high prices from U.S. manufacturers and you should be looking for a supplier that is able to offer your organization highly competitive pricing.

Customer Service

Look for a supplier who understands the needs of the customer and is approachable. Your deep draw supplier should have an attitude that is positive, helpful and open minded and demonstrate a willingness to understand your point of view.

The manufacturing of deep drawn components is a specialist field that entails close liaison between supplier and customer. Dealing with a U.S. based manufacturer is simple and involves no language or communication issues. Because the manufacturer is readily accessible, it’s possible for you to resolve issues quickly without the need to resort to time-consuming overseas travel to resolve minor issues or to expedite delivery.