5 Ways To Select A Plastics Manufacturer For Your Project

When you need plastic parts for your product, you want a plastics manufacturer that is reliable, affordable, and produces high-quality parts. There may be a lot of options, so it is important to narrow down the field with the right criteria.

What is a plastics manufacturer, and what do they do?

A plastics manufacturer is a company that produces plastic parts. The most common way this is done is through injection molding, but some plastics are made using other methods such as blow molding or extrusion. A plastics manufacturer may also build molds, prototype parts, or offer post-production services such as pad printing.

Why Choosing the Right Injection Molding Supplier Matters

If you’re developing a plastic part, the success of your product often depends on the capabilities and reliability of your injection molding supplier. Beyond just producing parts, the right supplier will help you with design, prototyping, material selection, and on-time delivery. Choosing wisely can save you time, money, and future headaches.

What to Look for When Choosing an Injection Molding Manufacturer

You need a list of criteria based on your personal needs to ensure that the manufacturer you select is the best one for your project.

1. Know the Budget for Your Project

Affordability is very important for any project. When you find plastic injection molding manufacturers, request quotes for your specific part—this is offered for free by most companies. Prices can vary widely, so it’s important to confirm whether they can stay within your budget.

2. Plastic Manufacturer’s Volume and Capacity

How many parts will you need, and when will you need them? These are essential questions to ask when meeting with a plastic manufacturer. Depending on their machine capacity, operating hours, and workload, they may or may not be able to meet your volume requirements on schedule.

3. Product Materials and Applications

When discussing the specs of your part, you’ll want to have an idea of what material to use. If you’re unsure, a good injection molding manufacturer can offer valuable guidance based on the material properties and what has worked well in past projects. You’ll also want to make sure they can handle any secondary needs, like inserts or printing.

Image to the left: Printing is applied to a part after it leaves the mold.

4. Feedback, Prototyping, and Advice

You know your product best, and your manufacturer knows plastic. Look for a company that offers honest feedback, helpful suggestions, and thorough prototyping before building a mold. A company that communicates well with transparency and respect will make your job a lot easier.

Image to the right: A plastic part with hydrographics applied for a camouflage print.

5. On-time, Quality Products

Finally, read reviews and evaluate sample products from your potential supplier. If past customers say the products were delivered on time, were high quality, and the company was easy to work with, that’s a strong indicator you’ve found a trustworthy partner.

Image to the left: A plastic part with a threaded metal insert. 

Schedule an Appointment

Rex Plastics has been in the business for over 50 years, doing plastics manufacturing for all kinds of customers. We will work with you to ensure that your needs are met when it comes to producing a high-quality final product. Check out our past projects and reach out to us for a free quote today!

Frequently Asked Questions