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Working with a cane manufacturer can be a great way to get the quality and style of cane you’re looking for at an affordable price. However, it’s important to take the time to learn some basics before making your purchase. Here are 5 essential tips to follow when shopping for walking canes from a cane manufacturer.
Research Your Options and Price Shop
As you embark on the process of finding a cane manufacturer, start by researching both local and international providers. Search online and review industry journals, such as Cane Magazine, to help you identify potential partners. Once you have a few options on your shortlist, contact each one and compare prices, materials and other features you may require for production. Understand that trying to save costs in the beginning could compromise the quality of the product in the end.
Choose a manufacturer that is certified to produce the type of canes you require
When selecting a manufacturer, it’s important that they have the proper certification to produce the type of canes you want. If the manufacturer only produces generic-style canes and doesn’t have certified production methods, then you may end up with an inferior product. Therefore, make sure to do your research on the cane supplier before you commit to working with them.
Be Clear About Your Specifications
When you reach out to potential cane manufacturers, it is important to be clear and specific about the type of canes you need and any additional features that may be required. Be sure to provide as much detail as possible – such as size, materials, color, delivery times and quantities – so that potential manufacturers have a full understanding of your requirements. This will enable them to determine if they are well-suited to fulfill your order.
Be Looking Out for Customization Opportunities
Working with a cane manufacturer can provide you with plenty of customization opportunities to suit your specific needs. As such, make sure to look closely through the manufacturer’s catalogues and be aware of what materials and colors are available. Additionally, always think about any special aluminum reinforcement or comfort options that can be incorporated into the design, such as gel foam cushions in the band end of a wooden shaft.
Ensure their production process meets quality standards and safety regulations
When choosing a cane manufacturer, it’s important to adequately vet the supplier and make sure they have the right certification and approvals in place. All reputable manufactures producing canes should be in compliance with international quality standards and safety regulations for any products. Ask for proof of ISO 13485 certifications or similar certifications from independent third-party organizations.
Request samples of raw cane material to compare and determine suitability for your product
Before you make any commitments, always request samples of the raw cane material from your potential manufacturer. This will allow you to determine the quality of their product and compare it against competitors. Review the samples for thickness, diameter, overall feel and aesthetic appeal. If the materials don’t match your requirements, then keep looking for other suppliers to find one that does.
Ask for Sample Testing Before You Place an Order
Before making any commitment to purchase from a particular cane manufacturer, always ask for sample testing. Accessing samples can help you evaluate the quality of the materials being used and ensure that the specific requirements your product may have will be met. Furthermore, this process allows you to inspect different components such as handle design, shaft construction and coverings. Sample testing will also let you learn more about your prospective supplier’s manufacturing capabilities and production processes before committing to them.
Verify the manufacturing capacity of the vendor before committing to large orders
It’s essential to verify that your potential cane manufacturer has the manufacturing capacity to withstand your order. If a vendor promises delivery per timelines and doesn’t deliver, then you won’t be able to meet customer demands. Ask for details such as equipment owned, personnel size and other resources available before placing any large orders with them. By doing this, you can avoid difficult and costly supply chain disruptions due to improper forecasting of demand or capacity needs.
