Find the precision tool you need by relying on a tool and die company to either supply a ready-made product or to create one using custom molds and die components. Whether you need a specific part that you can't find or you have an idea for a new product, you can use molds & dies to meet your needs.

Ask about the stamping tool ability of the tool and die companies you're considering. Find out the tonnage capacity of their presses and determine their typical turn-around-time is to avoid unpleasant and potentially costly surprises.

1. Discuss the types of mold dies you need with mold manufacturers.

2. Take advantage of custom molds to get exactly what you want.

3. Remember to consider stamping tools when you're choosing a tool and die company.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find mold manufacturers who have up-to-date technology

Ask the mold manufacturers you're considering what type of equipment they use, how quickly they can create the mold dies you need and how those parts will be delivered. Find out all the details before you make a decision. Compare the responses to choose the perfect mold manufacturer for your business needs.

I recommend: Tri-City Tool & Die stands ready to create the specific mold die you need for any project. Greens Mold, Die & Fixture will help you replicate parts no longer available or take a basic idea and see it through to completion, whichever your business requires.

Customize your designs using custom molds

Choose custom molds to create that hard-to-find part or to turn an idea into a usable tool. Custom molds can be made of a variety of materials, so ask for specific details before you reach an agreement to do business. Talk to other customers who've used the tool and die company you're considering to find out what their experiences were and if they would use the company again in the future.

I recommend: Custom Mold specializes in making the cooling components for custom molds, and with same-day shipping, you don't have to wait long for exactly what you need. Pittsfield Plastics Engineering can provide you with multi cavity or single cavity injection molds to make exactly what you need.

Evaluate the abilities of a stamping tool

Ask about the presses used for the stamping process. You want to know the speed with which the presses work as well as the amount of weight they can handle. Many stamp processors offer same-day delivery.

I recommend: Diversified Tool & Die boasts the latest in technology, allowing them to handle a wide array of stamping. Unique Tool & Manufacturing has stamp presses that can handle as much as 600 tons and they specialize in creating partnerships with you to ensure high customer satisfaction.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Think about rock molds when you're considering mold and die companies. Man-made rock molds are light weight, weather resistant and can be an important part of your inventory.