Have a Need for Speed? How A.R.E. Manufacturing Supports Expedited Lead Times

At A.R.E. Manufacturing, we understand that speed is critical in the fast-paced manufacturing industry. Whether it’s a brand-new project or repeat work with tight deadlines, our Oregon precision machine shop is equipped to handle expedited lead times without compromising on quality.

Here’s how we handle component manufacturing for customers requiring quick turnarounds and how our customers can ensure a seamless process from start to finish. 

Our Approach to Expedited Orders

The A.R.E. team includes expedited pricing in every quote when capacity allows. That way, our customers can make informed decisions based on their priorities, whether they require the fastest speed, the lowest cost, or a balance of these two factors.

Let’s explore how A.R.E. excels in expedites:

Lean Manufacturing Practices

Our commitment to Lean manufacturing enables us to eliminate unnecessary steps and streamline workflows. Unlike many shops of our size, we don’t have a separate programming department. Instead, our machinists handle both programming and machining. With minimal handoffs in our process, we can accelerate production time and continue to offer competitive expedited lead times to our customers.

Flexibility in Our Facilities 

As a mid-sized Oregon manufacturing facility, we strike the perfect balance between flexibility and capacity. Our range of CNC milling services, CNC turning services, and other capabilities allows us to allocate resources effectively. With five horizontal mills and five lathes, the A.R.E. team can accommodate expedited projects alongside our regular workload. 

Rigorous Documentation

Our approach to documentation ensures that our processes are repeatable. When we receive a project for the first time, our expert Level 3 machinists document their exact procedures, tool utilization, and machine setups. That way, when we receive repeat orders, our team can replicate proven steps and setups with impressive speed and accuracy. 

Scheduling Transparency

Using ProShop’s ERP system, the A.R.E. team has real-time visibility into machine workloads and run times. This transparency helps us access our capacity for expedited projects and provide customers with accurate timelines.

We don’t make promises we can’t keep. When we cannot meet a customer’s expedited lead times, our team communicates honestly and promptly.

Above-and-Beyond Customer Support

At A.R.E. Manufacturing, we prioritize communication with our customers, especially for expedited work. By keeping customers informed at every stage, we ensure that our customers’ expectations are aligned with what we can achieve. In addition, this open line of communication allows us to address any potential hiccups that could otherwise slow production promptly. 

Best Practices for Projects with Expedited Lead Times: Our Advice

expedited lead times

A.R.E. Manufacturing has the equipment, team, and processes to yield quick turnarounds. However, our customers can simplify our operations, therefore making expedited lead times a viable option in the following ways:

Include Alternative Materials, When Possible

Material availability—especially for more exotic materials—can significantly impact lead times. Specifying acceptable alternatives can help us source materials faster and keep your project on track. By being flexible, you eliminate potential bottlenecks and ensure faster delivery.

Share Sample Parts

If you have previous samples, providing one can give our team valuable insights into finish expectations and functional requirements. This helps us fine-tune our processes and meet your quality standards more efficiently.

Provide a 3D Model with Your RFQ

Using advanced software solutions like Paperless Parts, our team can analyze features included in 3D models and anticipate challenges early in the process. Including all relevant materials proactively minimizes unexpected issues that may arise during machining.

Ready to get started on your expedited project? Request a quote from our team for high-quality parts delivered in days!