How to Determine Your Custom Part Requirements: A Checklist
Once you’ve decided to design and build a custom part to suit the unique specifications of your application, figuring out where to begin can be overwhelming. There are several factors you need to consider, such as:
- Construction materials
- Finishes
- Tolerances
- Manufacturing operations
The following article will walk you through some of the key considerations to keep in mind when partnering with a third-party custom manufacturer to design and develop a custom part.
Product Specifications Checklist
When you’re making decisions about your custom part, it may be helpful to have a checklist of specifications to consider. Here are a few of the things you’ll need to decide on:
- Product type. What product do you need? Is it an adapter, collar, mounting, coupling, or something else?
- Product style. How should the part be built? Should it have solid, split, or mixed construction?
- Construction material and grade. What type of material and grade will be used for construction? Is it aluminum, nylon, brass, weldable metal, or an alternative material?
- Product finish. How will the part be finished? Will it feature a plain, plated, standard black, or custom finish?
- Product size. What are the requirements and restrictions on part size? Are there specific internal and/or external dimensions that must be met?
- Production quantity. How many parts do you need? Is there a minimum quantity or range required, and are you making a single or blanket order?
- Production timeline. What is your expected timeline for product delivery? Do you have a specific lead time in mind, and does your manufacturing partner offer options for expedited or emergency part shipment?
Additional Steps to Consider
Once you’ve determined the above part requirements, it may be helpful to download 2D and 3D CAD drawings in your desired format and generate product prototypes. You can then shop around to compare manufacturing costs and test your product design with customers.
Quick and Quality Custom Parts From Stafford Manufacturing
Manufacturing companies generally turn to third-party manufacturers for custom parts when they need the part quickly and cannot dedicate the time to produce the part themselves. This issue frequently arises when they have a major project release on the horizon and need to meet tight deadlines. By reallocating excess part or product orders to a third-party manufacturer, they can fulfill production obligations.
At Stafford Manufacturing, our expert team can take your product concept—whether it’s a print, sketch, or brief description—and turn it into a completed product. We specialize in custom orders, producing more specialties than standard products. Within 24 hours or less, we will respond to your request for a quote. Regardless of whether you need a single part or thousands of pieces, we can serve as your “in-house” machine shop.
By partnering with us for your custom part needs, you benefit from our industry-leading:
- For years, we have supplied high-quality standard and custom products to thousands of customers. Our ISO 9001:2015 certification demonstrates our dedication to customer satisfaction and constant, ongoing improvement.
- We are similarly committed to providing a high level of service to customers. Our parts are generally in stock and available for same-day shipment. If you want to speak to someone, our toll-free number is always staffed by friendly professionals who are ready to help. You’ll never need to listen to an automated message or wait for someone to call you back.
- If you require assistance, we can match our lineup with your needs and work with you throughout the entire production process to ensure that you’re getting exactly what you want.
- We keep our prices fair and competitive without skimping on value and always deliver on our promises.
Whether you need to alter a standard product or create a part from scratch, our experts have the experience and equipment necessary to provide you with a finished part that meets your needs in your specified budget and timeline. If you’d like to learn more about partnering with a custom manufacturer to design and develop a custom part, download our eBook, “Key Questions to Ask Your Custom Manufacturer.”