Purchasing quality bolts is dependent on finding a quality bolt manufacturer that can effectively meet your needs. As a purchasing manager, you have a lot of pressing responsibilities, so you might let yourself slip when it comes to researching manufacturers when you need to purchase bolts. You might just pick the first one that pops up on your search in order to get the task off your plate. Although understandable, this can be detrimental to your company’s bottom line and the products you sell. The quality of your bolts is far too important to settle for a subpar manufacturer just because you’re under time constraints.

Instead, take some time to carefully weigh all your options. Before you choose a bolt manufacturer for your next purchase, consider these five factors.

1. Price

No doubt, price is going to be a factor in your decision. After all, you’re on a budget and only have so much money to spend on your purchase. Spending too much can be fiscally irresponsible, but you also don’t want to compromise on quality to get the cheapest bolts out there. You should find a bolt manufacturer that has decent pricing—not outrageous so you can still afford it, but not dirt cheap where you’re questioning the quality of its service and products.

2. Expertise

Often times, you’ll need to custom design your bolts. This can be a complex process—the configurations have to be specific and precise for your bolts to work with your intended product. To make sure you’re getting the right bolt for the job, find a manufacturer that has experience and expertise when it comes to custom designs. On-site specialists can do wonders for ensuring you’re not wasting your money on a design that won’t work out in the end. Their advice and guidance can be the most important part of your relationship.

3. Customer Service

Great customer service isn’t just about getting design advice, it’s about providing help and answers all along the manufacturing process, whether it’s about price, time, delivery, or anything in between. You should stay clear of any bolt manufacturer that has a reputation for poor service. You’ll only end up getting frustrated and risk not having your needs met.

4. Quality Products

Naturally, you want bolts that you can depend on—bolts that are strong, durable, and reliable. So you need to look for a manufacturer that doesn’t compromise the quality of its products for any reason. Compare the quality of the machinery, materials, and finishes before you commit to one supplier. The last thing you want is to be left with a terrible bolt that won’t be able to withstand pressure or time.

5. Turnaround Times

Time is money, right? If this statement stands, then you obviously can’t be wasting time with a manufacturer that is as slow as a snail when it comes to manufacturing, service, or shipping. The more time you spend waiting around, the more money you’re going to lose out on based on slower productivity on your side. Make sure you know a manufacturer’s turnaround times, and that those turnaround times work for your own deadlines, before you commit.

Expect the Best

Don’t let your products suffer because you chose a subpar bolt manufacturer. Your clients expect the best of your product, so in turn, you should expect only the best from your manufacturer and the bolts you purchase. Look at price, expertise, customer service, quality, and turnaround times when making your decision on a bolt manufacturer.