What Makes One Fabrication Shop More Expensive Than Another?

Our prices aren't the cheapest. We don't want to be the "cheapest" price; we want to be the best fabricator. I'm sometimes asked why our prices might be more than the other guy's. There are so many reasons, but the ones that stand out the most are; Insurance, (General Liability, Workers' Compensation and Auto) a valid, active California Contractors license and experience.

There are some shops out there that might be operating without insurance.  Not having to pay insurance premiums will lower over head and hence pricing will be less. They may not have shop rent because they might work out of their garage. They may purchase only pre-manufactured materials rather than do any custom work.  They may be new to the business and lack some of the expertise that a more seasoned fabricator brings to the table.  The most important thing is to compare all the pricing you receive and make sure that you're not making your decision based solely on price.  Compare proposals "apples to apples".  Look at the materials that are proposed, are they equal in quality; what is the wall thickness and is it the appropriate material to use for the application.  What finish will be used? Can your fabricator adhere to a time frame; if he says your project will be completed in two weeks, can he stick to that?

Insurance and shop rent are the most expensive aspects of overhead. If your fabricator is paying for these things, then his price will have to be higher to cover costs. Having insurance is very important specifically for you the consumer. Having a shop usually means that the fabricator has good tools and machinery.  He'll be able to put out an exceptional product.  If you're unsure about whether your fabricator has insurance coverage and a Contractors State License, ask him. He should be able to provide you with a copy of his Certificate of Insurance which lists the types of insurance coverage’s, amounts and the policy dates. The California Contractors State License Board issues a Contractor’s License to those contractors who have passed their test and paid their fees.  A license number is always issued so ask your fabricator to provide you with his number. You can verify that his license is active, or if there are any complaints,  by going to the State of California Contractors State License Board's website to check status.

 There is value to you, the consumer, to choose a contractor that has his license, insurance and who is experienced, for no other reason than peace of mind and for your protection.