As the calendar moves toward the end of the year, many companies begin wrapping up budgets and evaluating their final projects. For those in need of custom welding and fabrication services, November offers a key opportunity. Scheduling your metal fabrication project now can lead to better pricing, faster turnaround, and a head start on the new year. In this post, we explore why November is the best time to schedule custom welding and fabrication work, especially when you work with an experienced, full-service metal solutions provider like AP Precision Metals.
1. Get Ahead of the Holiday Rush
Many fabrication shops experience a spike in demand during December and January. As companies try to finish projects by year-end or launch new initiatives in the first quarter, fabrication schedules fill up fast. This often leads to longer lead times and higher costs.
By scheduling your project in November, you beat the rush. This allows you to lock in production time and secure access to skilled welders, CNC operators, inspection teams, and finishing equipment. It also helps reduce the risk of delays caused by holiday closures or last-minute jobs.
2. Better Lead Times and Workflow Efficiency
Custom welding and fabrication projects involve several critical stages. From design review and material sourcing to cutting, welding, inspection, and finishing, each step requires proper planning and coordination. Trying to complete all of this during the busy end-of-year season can result in rushed work and mistakes.
Starting your project in November gives your fabrication partner time to plan carefully, order materials early, and move through each phase without unnecessary pressure. This results in higher-quality outcomes and a more reliable timeline.
3. Use Up Remaining Year-End Budgets
Many companies operate on a fiscal calendar that ends in December. If budget is available for capital expenditures, November is the ideal time to invest in fabrication work. Scheduling now allows you to put that budget to use before it expires.
Even if the finished product is not needed until January, getting your order in before the end of the year can help ensure it is completed on time. You also gain the advantage of beginning the new year with essential parts already in hand.
4. Secure Material Costs Before Year-End Price Changes
Steel, aluminum, and other metal prices often fluctuate at the end of the year. As demand rises and inventory tightens, material suppliers may raise prices or impose surcharges. Delays in ordering can also lead to longer lead times for raw materials.
Scheduling your project in November allows your fabrication partner to order materials before prices increase. This helps you stay within budget and ensures materials are on hand when fabrication begins.
5. Build in Time for Inspection and Finishing
Welding and fabrication projects often require thorough inspection and finishing processes. Whether you need powder coating, painting, plating, or non-destructive testing, each of these steps takes time to complete properly.
Starting in November allows for a realistic timeline that includes quality checks and any required refinishing. This improves the final result and reduces the chance of having to make last-minute corrections or rush the finishing process.
6. Easier Coordination with Assembly and Delivery
At AP Precision Metals, we support more than just welding and fabrication. We offer assembly, kitting, hardware installation, labeling, and packaging. If your project involves multiple components or coordination with your internal team, extra time can make a big difference.
Scheduling in November ensures there is room in the calendar to manage these additional services. Your project is more likely to be completed on time and integrated smoothly with your operations.
7. Start the New Year with a Competitive Advantage
Getting your project underway in November sets you up for success in the new year. While others are still planning or waiting for production slots to open, your team can start the year with ready-to-use components or assemblies. This helps you stay ahead of competitors and maintain momentum on your larger projects.
How to Make the Most of a November Start Date
- Plan your scope of work carefully. Clear drawings, material specifications, and finish requirements help speed up the quote and production process.
- Include time for approvals. Make sure your internal team is available to review and approve designs, materials, or prototypes.
- Ask about full-service support. Choose a fabrication partner that can handle welding, finishing, assembly, and logistics under one roof.
- Consider your delivery needs. Whether you need just-in-time delivery or staged shipments, discuss your schedule with your fabricator early.
Why Choose AP Precision Metals
AP Precision Metals offers full-service metal fabrication based in San Diego. We specialize in CNC laser cutting, precision welding, bending, assembly, finishing, and packaging. Our experienced team understands the challenges of tight schedules and works closely with you to deliver consistent, high-quality results.
When you schedule your welding and fabrication work in November, you give yourself the advantage of time, quality, and control. Whether you are managing production deadlines, end-of-year budgets, or strategic projects for the new year, we are here to support your success.
Get Your Project on the Schedule Today
If you are ready to move forward or want expert input on planning your next custom welding and fabrication project, contact us today. Our team at AP Precision Metals is here to help you make the most of this critical planning window.