At Minland Machine, every build starts with a challenge and ends with a custom solution that works. From solving production issues and updating tooling to replicating equipment that no longer operates, we work with you to develop a made-to-order machine designed specifically for your process.
In this post, we’re breaking down what prospective customers can expect when they partner with Minland Machine, from the first phone call to the final shipment.
1. Define the Problem
Most jobs start with a phone call. A customer has a part, a machine or an idea, but something’s not working. Sometimes it’s an issue with an existing system. Other times, it’s a part that needs to be made faster, more consistently or with a different tooling.
What we need to get started:
- A description of the part or process you’re working with
- Any existing tooling or equipment specs
- A sample part, print or drawing (we’ve even worked off napkin sketches)
2. Design & Reverse Engineering
Once we understand what you’re trying to achieve, we may request to review physical tooling or components at our shop. In many cases, we reverse engineer the part or process to design a new machine or medication from the ground up.
For customers who want a fully modeled concept before committing to production, we can create a detailed solid model and print, often for a standalone design fee; this option helps define costs and feasibility before a full quote is issued.
3. Quoting the Job
We don’t charge for standard quotes, but we do put time into making sure they’re realistic and comprehensive. A quote may take 2–4 weeks depending on the complexity of the job and our workload.
What goes into a quote:
- Time spent dissecting parts or tooling
- Estimating materials, machining and labor
- Optional modeling and design fees (where applicable)
4. Approval & Payment Terms
Once the quote is approved, we move into production. Payment terms depend on the scope of the job and our relationship with the customer.
New customers typically pay 50% down, with the balance due at completion
Returning customers may qualify for Net-30 or split milestone payments
5. Build & Testing
All machines are built in-house at our Edwardsburg, Michigan, facility. We don’t usually run extensive customer-side QA or runoff testing because the machines are built to spec and performance is as promised. If needed, we’ll perform light startup and part validation in-house before delivery.
6. Delivery & Setup
Shipping is FOB Minland. That means customers are responsible for freight, though we’re happy to coordinate with your carrier, if needed. For local or larger machines, we may assist with setup onsite, especially for benders or systems that include tooling packages.
When setup is provided, we’ll typically:
- Position and level the machine
- Reference tables and tooling
- Confirm the machine produces acceptable parts
- Provide light operator training, if needed
7. Support Revisions & Upgrades
We don’t have a full-time service department, but we do support what we build. If there’s an issue, we’ll figure out what went wrong and work with you to correct it. We’ve never had a machine returned.
We also occasionally upgrade Minland-built machines in the field, modeling new features, fabricating components and installing them on-site with minimal disruption.
Why We Prefer to Start from Scratch
While we’ve modified third-party equipment in the past, experience has shown starting fresh is often more efficient, for us and for you. With a ground-up design:
- You get exactly what your process needs
- It’s easier to service and replicate in the future
- We can guarantee compatibility and performance
Built for You, Backed by Us
At Minland Machine, our process is personal, responsive and built on decades of experience in custom fabrication. We’re not a catalog company. Every machine we ship starts as a conversation to solve your challenge.
Have a part or process you need to improve?