# Metal fabrication FAQ | Best Fabricators

Source: https://bestfabricators.com/faq/

# Questions

### How do I find metal fabricators near me?

Pick your metro on this site for local industries, codes, and suburbs where shops cluster. For structural steel, search the AISC certification directory by state. Then shortlist three shops, visit them, and compare written quotes.

### Do you list or rank fabrication shops?

Not yet. We will not publish invented listings, ratings, or reviews. Shops can send a listing inquiry; that form does not publish a listing. Featured listings will be clearly labeled when they launch.

### What is custom metal fabrication?

Making metal parts or assemblies to your drawing or need, rather than buying a stock product. It usually combines cutting, forming, welding or fastening, and finishing.

### How many quotes should I get?

Three is a common target. Make sure every shop quotes the same drawing, material, quantity, finish, and delivery, or the numbers are not comparable.

### Is the cheapest quote the best?

Not necessarily. Check what is excluded: finishing, engineering, delivery, installation, and inspection are common gaps.

### What is the difference between MIG and TIG welding?

MIG (gas metal arc welding) feeds a wire electrode and is fast for steel. TIG (gas tungsten arc welding) uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode and separate filler, and is slower but more precise, which suits thin material, stainless, and aluminum.

### Laser, plasma, or waterjet?

Laser is precise and fast on thin to medium sheet. Plasma is economical on thicker steel. Waterjet cuts almost any material without heat, which avoids heat-affected zones.

### Why do fabrication quotes vary so much?

Shops price risk, overhead, current workload, and what they include differently. Compare scope line by line.

### Can I lower the cost of custom metal fabrication?

Use standard material sizes and gauges, loosen tolerances where they do not matter, order more pieces at once, and choose a finish that matches the environment rather than the most expensive option.