Tip No. 1: Not checking the supplier quotation
Let’s face it, you are busy and need to get things done fast. However, it is often the small details that cause the biggest problems.
When looking at the quotation ask yourself the following: does the quotation list the lead-time and does this include the overall delivered to your door lead time? Many companies only list the time to manufacture in their quotation and do not include the time it takes to get the parts. This may sound obvious but ask yourself when did you last double check this?
Tip No. 2: Low Cost Alternatives
Avoid low cost alternative parts being used unless your designers have specifically allowed this. To give an attractive price many companies offer low cost alternative parts as standard. This includes the cable type make up and copper content. On the face of it this may seem ok – you’re getting a better deal right? However, can you be sure if the alternative parts will: (a) work and have the lifespan you require and (b) give you the correct electrical properties you require and not fail in the field prematurely?
Tip No. 3: Samples and Approvals
If you are under pressure to get a new assembly in or to change supplier avoid the mistake of missing out the sample approval stage.
It is very easy to assume that the technical drawing / sample / photos of the assembly are clear enough but believe me, there is ALWAYS a grey area. The only true way to be sure that the cable assembly you get is the one you need and will work the way you need it to is to test a sample before accepting full production.
The costs and time involved in re-working cables can be massive, not to mention the arguments over whose fault it is and most importantly who picks up the bill for any re-works. No matter how much in a hurry you are, take time to evaluate samples. It always saves a lot of heartache later.
Tip No. 4: Skills and Tooling
Never assume that the company you are talking to have the right skills / tooling to carry out your work. It is true that not everyone is the same and this certainly applies to the Cables Assembly business. It is a common belief that if you are talking to a specialist cable assembly company they will be able to make your cables. However, not everyone has the same skills and tooling to do everything, in fact it is very common to find that some companies favour crimping to soldering and some are good at both. Also, there is a big difference in the skills required to build PCB Cables to larger Robotic and heavy duty Power cables.
It is always worth spending some time discussing the specific skills and tooling the company you are talking to has. This way you won’t be giving unsuitable work to your supplier. It is always much better to find the right match of work to the right supplier – you will get better results and a far more harmonious working relationship this way.
Tip 5: Guarantees
We all expect some sort of guarantee however it is vital that you avoid assuming the level of guarantee you will receive and when gathering quotation what guarantees are you being offered. For example, all prices are similar but one companies offers firm guarantees on product this is a simple and easy way to decide the best company to work with.
You can go further than this. Ask what lead-time is guaranteed and what level of guarantee you are given for cable assemblies to pass the quality approval process.
This may seem obvious, however in many situations there is a level of assumptions on both sides and unless a gaurantee is given in writing confirming what is guaranteed and your rights then you are potentially missing out on a better deal for yourself. How good does it feel when you know you are guaranteed to get what you want rather than hoping for the best?
I hope you have found this simple guide useful. No matter what your situation the most important thing to remember is that the way to the best deal is through a great working relationship based on common goals. Working in harmony with your supplier is always best and if you follow theses practical tips you are sure to get the very best for you.
