The design consultant and client often work together to select the moldmaker and/or molder. Each project is different, so you should be direct in your discussions with design consultants. Ask who is going to make the final decision. If it is the client,

ask to visit them, as well as the purchasing and engineering staff. Also, have the design consultant give some guidance on expected leadtime, part costs and tooling budgets. If you have prior experience that matches the project, be sure to supply parts for review by the consultant and client.

If leadtime is a particularly important and deciding factor, make sure you provide alternatives or even a range of prices based upon delivery. If piece price is most important, be sure to apprise the design consultant of any easy ways to reduce costs, such as substituting materials. Some consultants will make sure that molders asked to quote have a realistic chance to land a project; it’s a practice that all design firms should follow.