Choosing poorly here doesn't just sting—it can mean line stoppages, failed audits, or expensive rework. This list gives you the questions that separate seasoned suppliers from risky bets.
Do they hold the right permits (EASR, ECA) for air/noise emissions?
Have they upgraded electrical service for continuous tube lines?
What's their history with CSA/ISO audits?
What's their safety record compared to industry averages?
Can they deliver digital MTRs for each heat and bundle?
What FPY (first-pass yield) are they aiming for?
Do they measure and share OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness)?
Will they guarantee on-time delivery in writing?
Do they support fast-turn, small-lot production?
Do they have binding agreements for spares and consumables?
Can they handle sudden demand spikes?
Do they offer vendor-managed inventory (VMI)?
Can they hand over customer references who vouch for reliability?
If things go sideways, what's the escalation path?
A 5% price difference disappears quickly when you factor in delivery delays, quality issues, or the cost of finding alternative suppliers mid-project. Focus on total cost of ownership, not just unit price.
Failed audits can shut down your production line and damage customer relationships. The cheapest supplier often cuts corners on documentation, traceability, and quality systems that auditors scrutinize.
Our operations team can review your supplier against this checklist and identify potential risks.