Questions To Ask, Materials to Provide, and More
No matter the project, choosing the right metal spring clip or metal stamping component is important. Spring clips are required to perform seemingly minute – yet, in reality, enormous – tasks such as holding parts together and such. A slip up from a single clip or metal stamping can spell disaster for an entire project, assembly line, product offering and so much more.
That’s why it is important to ask questions before placing your metal stamping order. First, you must ask yourself some preliminary questions to get the ball rolling for the project. Once you answer those questions, it’s time to ask the spring clip manufacturer some additional questions. 
Getting the answer to the questions below will help you decide which metal spring clip manufacturer is right for you – and will make your ordering process much more efficient and hassle-free.
Questions to Ask Yourself:
What do I need?
This may seem like an obvious one, but it’s a starting point. Some additional questions that full under this category could be:
- What do I need the springs to accomplish?
Answering this question will help you find out the size, durability, strength, material and more needed for your order.
- How many do I need?
Some manufacturers only produce bulk orders while others don’t have the capabilities to produce large quantities. It’s important to know the amount you need to order.
What is my budget?
Again, many people think this is pretty obvious. If you don’t ask yourself this, however, good luck telling your boss you went over budget…
When do I need the springs?
Imagine receiving a shipment of 100,000 parts three weeks late and there’s nothing you can do about it. You must set a reasonable, realistic deadline for manufacturers to meet.
Questions to Ask The Spring Clip Manufacturer 
Can you customize springs?
Since we asked ourselves what type of springs we need, this is a logical choice to ask the manufacturer. Most projects call for unique, customized metal spring clips. Does the manufacturer have an experienced engineer team that will help design and produce custom springs? Or do they simply have an inventory full of stock parts and will choose the “closest” one for your project.
Engineers will also help you decide which metal is ideal for your project. Don’t be afraid to ask them why; they’ll explain the different metal stamping capabilities and benefits each metal provides.
Can you fulfill my order size?
This is why it’s important to realize your order volume. There’s a huge difference between metal stamping prototypes, short run stamping, and large volume progressive die stamping services. This leads to the next question:
How quickly can you complete this task?
In better words, “can you meet my deadline so I don’t get fired?” This would be a good time to also inquire about the delivery process and a timeline for your specific order.
So, the spring clip manufacturer has passed the test on the first three questions. Now comes the big one:
What are your costs?
Remember, you must stay within your budget. Ask if they offer bulk pricing or other discounts. Also, make sure you’re not getting ripped off by insane shipping and handling costs. Some companies try to make up for the discounts here without customers even knowing! Avoid that trouble by ensuring the delivery process is as efficient as possible.
How can I be sure of the quality of your products?
We’ve all ordered a product online that looked good, arrived on time, and when you go to use it? It doesn’t function properly – and no, of course there isn’t a warranty. Be sure to ask if the spring clip manufacturer has a quality assurance department. Another way to answer this question on your own is to look for customer reviews, testimonials, and referrals. Other customers’ insights can be the truest way to tell the quality of a company’s product.
Is there anything I’m forgetting?
They’re the experts for a reason. Don’t be afraid to ask this question. After all, they want to provide the best services possible in a way to lure you back for repeat business. And remember, that’s not a bad thing; it’s the same thing you do for your customers.