Awarding a program on email quotes alone skips the step that prevents scrap at ramp: a structured injection molding factory audit. Virtual or on-site, audits verify capacity, quality records, and whether your mold will stay where you think it is.
Pre-award audit checklist
- Quality system — ISO certificate, inspection equipment list, retention policy
- Engineering — DFM process sample, headcount, CAD revision control
- Tooling — mold storage, marking, maintenance logs
- Production — press tonnage mix, resin drying, scrap tracking
- Secondary ops — weld, insert, assembly cells if in scope
- Subcontract disclosure — who actually runs production
Pair with our China manufacturer selection guide.
Red flags during audit
- No recent calibration stickers on CMM or gauges
- Molds unmarked or stored off-site without contract clause
- Engineering cannot explain last DFM example
- Sample room only — no visible production in motion
Virtual vs on-site
| Program risk | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| < $20k tooling, simple part | Video tour + reference check may suffice |
| High-cavity, safety-adjacent, > $50k tool | On-site or third-party audit before steel cut |
FAQ
Can we audit after tooling deposit?
Too late for primary qualification — audit before award or make deposit refundable on failed audit.
Does Deuchi support customer audits?
Yes — coordinate with sales before visit; see about Deuchi.
Next step: Schedule a technical intro call before your sourcing committee meets.