Rubber is a very adaptable material which is why it’s utilized in so many mechanical and commercial applications. From sealing components, tires, rubber plugs, and several other products, it can be used to make pretty much anything.
If you are a vendor of rubber goods, it is crucial that you only work with the most experienced and reliable rubber manufacturers – after all, your company’s reputation depends on it!
But choosing the right custom rubber manufacturing partner is not easy when the market is full of them. Don’t worry, that’s what we are here for. In this post, you’ll learn how to shortlist and pick the best candidate among the crowd.
Check Out Their References
When working with a custom rubber manufacturing partner, you want someone who has a reputation for providing good customer experiences. A company that focuses on their customers’ satisfaction would be happy to share their references with you.
These references might be individuals or companies that contracted the manufacturer for rubber components for OEMs or major brands. Reach out to them and talk to them about their experience with the manufacturer.
But keep in mind that most major companies require their suppliers to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement. Still, if you can confirm that the manufacturer is supplying to OEMs, you know they are the real deal in terms of reliability and quality.
Evaluate Their Competency
Despite the macro-economic challenges facing the rubber industry following the pandemic, if a business is still growing, it reflects on their intrinsic competence and resourcefulness. So, check to what extent the rubber manufacturing company has been active and whether or not it has been going through continuous improvements since its inception.
Ideally speaking, the company should be at least 5 years old with an established market reputation. Experienced suppliers would have worked with a number of businesses in different industries, which gives the much-needed versatility to handle your unique requirements.
Consider Their Business Ethics and Values
The world is changing and so is the way we do business. Experience and quality of products matter but you should also know the core values and ethics of a company’s business operations. Do they have complaints against them online about shoddy business practices? Are they providing their workers a safe environment and following all the local regulations and best business practices?
Working with a dedicated and responsible manufacturer means you’re supporting a business that truly cares about wellbeing of people and will treat you with the same respect and consideration.
Superior Quality Products
The most important deciding factor is obviously the quality of rubber products. Can the rubber manufacturing partner guarantee exceptional quality? To determine this, check their professional references so you can see their qualifying credentials. We also recommend requesting a few samples of their work if possible.
It may be tempting to go with the cheapest manufacturer, but this can prove to be a costly mistake. Remember, you get what you pay for. A manufacturer quoting “too good to be true” prices means they will be cutting corners somewhere; it could be in the quality of the materials or somewhere else.
Your Trusted Rubber Manufacturing Partner in the Midwest
At Uniflex Inc., we have 40+ years of experience in providing custom rubber parts to companies across a wide range of industries. If you’re looking for a supplier that can back up their promises with solid, proven results, call us at 248-486-6000 or fill out this online contact form.