Summer downtime for many manufacturers makes it the perfect window to plan your next equipment investment. Whether you're upgrading your workflow or expanding capabilities, now’s the time to evaluate what you really need. However, you don’t want to make your purchase without the proper considerations! That’s precisely what we’ll discuss in this blog – here are five questions to ask before making your next machine investment.
1. What’s the exact problem I’m trying to solve?
Investing in your shop can be exciting – but make sure you’re focusing on the exact problem you’re trying to solve with your purchase. Clarify whether you want to boost production speed, improve cut accuracy, automate manual tasks, or replace outdated equipment. Defining your challenge helps you choose the right solution, not just the newest machine.
At Ferric Machinery, we have both new and used machinery options that are ready to add quality and productivity to your workflow. No matter what problem you’re having, we’ve got a solution.
2. What size, capacity, and specs do I truly need?
Don’t overbuy or under-equip. The newest machine with the most features can be enticing – but don’t pay for specs you don’t need! On the other hand, you don’t want a machine that will not fulfill your future needs or isn’t worth the investment.
Consider material type, thickness, part size, tolerances, and future scalability. Can the machine grow with your needs? Our technicians can help you choose the best machine for your shop now, and in the future!
3. Should I consider used, demo, or retrofit options?
At Ferric Machinery, we offer used machinery and stock to give our customers options to suit their needs. Our pre-owned machinery is professionally inspected, restored, and ready to go.
Quality used or demo equipment can deliver excellent value without breaking the bank. Retrofits can add life and efficiency to your current machines, sometimes for a fraction of the cost. Interested in learning more about our options? Contact us today!
4. What’s the service and tooling support like post-purchase?
A reliable machine is only as good as its after-sales support; we live by this rule at Ferric. Our highly skilled, facto
ry-trained service technicians ensure that your machinery operates to the manufacturer's specifications in your production environment.
Ask about training, maintenance plans, emergency repair response times, and access to press brake tooling or replacement parts. Our local and extensive range of spare parts will minimize your downtime.
5. How will this machine impact ROI and shop workflow?
When making this kind of investment, you have to consider more than just the machine. Don’t just look at the price tag; look at downtime reduction, labour savings, scrap reduction, and how the machine integrates with your existing equipment or processes.
Before making your purchase, carefully evaluate how it will improve your shop’s quality, productivity, and workflows, and if there are any drawbacks associated with it. Making a well-informed decision now can result in huge successes in the future!
Have more questions or need further advice? We can help! Contact Ferric Machinery today to speak to a qualified technician!