What buyers usually need to specify
Most welding quotes stall because the request is incomplete. Shops need to know the base material and thickness, the joint configuration, the finish expectation and whether the weld is structural, cosmetic, pressure-containing or sanitary.
- Base material and thickness (mild steel, stainless, aluminum)
- Whether welds are structural, cosmetic, sanitary or pressure-rated
- Any welding code or procedure requirement
- Quantity now and expected repeat volume
- Fixturing: do you need the shop to build it?
Manual, semi-automatic and robotic welding
Manual welding stays competitive at low volumes and on large or awkward assemblies. Robotic cells make sense once part geometry is stable and volume justifies programming and fixture cost. Many small and midsized shops run both, which is why capability questions matter more than shop size.
Inspection and documentation
Ask what inspection the shop performs in-house versus what it subcontracts. Visual inspection is standard; dye penetrant, magnetic particle, ultrasonic and radiographic inspection are usually arranged as needed. If you require welder qualification records or procedure documentation, say so before the quote, not after the first article.