4 Qualities You Need in Your Tank Components Supplier

Introduction

Your success as a tank manufacturer depends on having a trustworthy partner to protect your bottom line. However, choosing the right company to rely on for all your tank needs may seem difficult. So, what qualities are most important in a tank component manufacturer relationship?

A trial-and-error approach to business partnerships will often result in less-than-satisfying exchanges. Weeding out unfit companies in that way will waste your time and energy.

Keep your projects on budget and schedule by choosing a partner who demonstrates these four exceptional qualities: clear communication, technical knowledge, uncompromising quality, and competitive lead times.

1. Clear Communication

It is extremely important that your tank components supplier clearly communicates. Partnering companies rely on key information from each other to carry out various tasks. Unclear communication can cause misunderstandings about lead times, product details, and other expectations. 

Choosing a vendor who clearly communicates can be as easy as starting a conversation. Are they willing to help you troubleshoot before they even get the job? How long does it take a company to get back to you?

A worthwhile company will respond to customer emails the same business day they are received.

2. Technical Knowledge

Safety, quality, and efficiency start with product design. Your manufacturer should incorporate these three factors when selling, designing, and producing your component.

Your supplier should be well-versed in the production of tank components and the construction of entire vessels. A knowledgeable supplier will ensure the highest quality and easiest fit-up for your tank assembly operations.

3. Uncompromising Quality

True, price is an important factor to consider when making purchasing decisions, but quality is what elevates one company's products above the rest.

How can you be sure your manufacturer has a high-quality standard? Look at their mission statement and their legacy. This can often be found on the company’s website in the “about us” section.

Do they communicate the importance of quality to their company? Are they proud of who they are and what they have accomplished? Do they offer quality programs in-house?

Quality components are also essential for your customers' satisfaction. Your company fabricates high-quality stainless steel vessels, so you want the highest-quality components in your vessels.

Your reputation for quality is closely connected to the quality of your tank component supplier. A partner you can trust is a supplier that demonstrates that their quality program exceeds your expectations.

Lasting products will save both you and your customers time and money in the long run.

Social media ratings and referrals from past customers are some of your most valuable resources. They can tell you about a supplier's quality of products and customer service.

The highest quality manufacturers will have consistently high ratings, referrals, and quality products.

4. Competitive Lead Times

Your supplier's production and distribution speed affects your company's efficiency. You can't afford to be late for an order because you have deadlines to meet, too.

Slow or inconsistent lead times will hinder your project's progress and profit. That’s why your partner company must have competitive lead times.

What factors affect lead times? Consider each of these items to determine whether a company has competitive lead times.

Manufacturing Processes

• Does the manufacturer have efficient production processes?
• How do they fabricate the product you are asking for? Some companies have machines that form tank heads faster than the average fabricator.

Inventory Management

• Can the company tell you how much of a certain product is in stock? On occasion, manufacturers will have material or replacement parts in stock. The in-stock materials and parts will decrease the turnaround time for your order.

Supply Chain

• What forms of distribution is the company currently using? Shipping options should be timely and have a low risk of damaging your product.