Fabricating metal pieces is a complicated process that requires specialized skills, extensive experience, and the proper equipment. But finding a good machine shop, regardless of whether it’s for personal or business purposes, is more challenging than it may seem. Listed below are some of the qualities and characteristics a company should offer before you decide to hire them.

4 Things You Should Look for in a Machine Shop

1. Updated Equipment

Most of the work in a machine shop—from cutting to grinding to sanding—is done using pieces of equipment such as computer numerical control (CNC) milling machines, lathes, grinders, presses, and more. If the shop is not equipped correctly, they probably won’t be able to handle your job efficiently.

2. Skilled & Experienced Machinists

Machines can’t succeed without machinists who have the skills and experience necessary to operate them. Try to find out what type of training they’ve undergone and if they have certifications to show for it. Check their licenses as well.

3. Ready Communication

As with any other type of job, communication is critical before, during, and even after the project. From clarifying what your needs are and providing a detailed quote to informing you about any issues they may encounter along the way, a company you can easily get in touch with and that keeps you updated is the best choice.

4. Available References

A reputable machine shop should be able to provide you with a list of references you may consult to help you determine the quality of their service. This could include some of their previous customers, industry contacts such as suppliers, or online reviews from sites such as Yelp or the Better Business Bureau™ (BBB).

If you need excellent metal fabrication services, turn to C & C Machine Inc in La Crosse, WI. This company is the oldest and most reliable machine shop in the area. They can handle all types of welding work and even offer portable welding and machining solutions. Give them a call at (608) 784-4427 or visit their website to learn more about the services they provide.