You’re on the prowl for the best blow molding supplier out there. But how do you judge? Here are 7 qualities to look for.
Good communication
You and your blow molding supplier will be working closely to put your best product forward. This often involves a lot of back and forth. From concept discussions to mold revisions, the process of creating a strong part requires great communication.
A good blow molding supplier will be your business partner — they will work hard to make sure you succeed.
- They listen carefully to what you need.
- They address any concerns that you express.
- They clearly convey your design options, part manufacturing requirements, and corresponding price points.
- They are timely in getting back to you in any correspondence.
Flexibility and responsiveness to change
Changes can arise throughout the blow molding design and manufacturing process. Perhaps your investor would like to add a handle to a part or the supplier comes up with a low-cost solution to a vexing problem you’ve been having with your design.
Whatever it may be, your blow molding supplier needs to be responsive and flexible in the face of change. Their main priority should be your satisfaction, not their production schedule.
Stability and dedication to growth
As is true with any partner, you want your blow molding supplier to be financially solvent and working hard to grow their company. You don’t want to work with a company that hasn’t proven their mettle and may fold in the coming months. Choose an established supplier with a strong reputation to ensure you won’t find yourself in the lurch.
Up-to-date equipment
The quality of your product and the speed of the production cycle are closely tied to the proficiency of your blow molding supplier’s equipment. A blow molding supplier with old, unserviced, or insufficiently maintained equipment can really throw a wrench in your product plans.
Inquire into your potential blow molding supplier’s machine health by asking these questions:
- How old is your equipment?
- Who is responsible for machine maintenance?
- What regular maintenance do you perform?
- How often do you make part replacements and repairs?
- Do you have any known issues with your blow molding equipment?
- When is the last time you had a malfunction that impacted a customer’s production run?
Selection of available processes
Different products require different processes to bring to fruition. Further, depending on how your product develops during the design phase, the blow molding process you require may change. A quality supplier will be able to accommodate a variety of blow molding processes. They will also work with you to use a multi-process approach, if needed.
Range of materials
While HDPE is a fantastic, versatile plastic resin, it is not appropriate for every blow molding process. From virgin ABS to recycled TPE, a quality blow molding supplier will provide you with a spectrum of plastic resins to choose from.
Commitment to sustainability
The trend toward sustainable products has now become the mode for modern businesses. If your blow molding supplier doesn’t prioritize environmental considerations in their production and sourcing strategies, they are behind the times. Seek out a blow molding designer with an established record of sustainable practices.
For more on getting started with a blow molding supplier, check out these questions to ask your blow molder.