Choosing a CNC router vendor

You have two options when shopping for a CNC router: purchase directly from a manufacturer, or go through their exclusive regional brokers.

Manufacturer vs. exclusive distributor
Selling direct lets manufacturers keep costs slightly lower than distributors who have to include a markup. However, depending on their location, you may have to pay more in delivery and/or transportation costs for support staff. A manufacturer that has regional support centers near you can provide local support and maintenance options.

Distributors are exclusively licensed to sell a manufacturer’s routers in their area. The main advantage of choosing a distributor is that by working with one in your area, you can be sure you'll get local support after the sale. Distributors may not have the same in-depth knowledge of the hardware and software that the manufacturer would, however.

Selecting a vendor
Regardless of whether you buy from a distributor or a manufacturer, it's essential to choose a vendor who is both knowledgeable and reliable. Find out how long they have been in business. If they have been around since the days of routers operating on punch tape, you can be confident they understand the business and have adapted with technology changes. Newer vendors may try to get you in the door with a lower price, but they may not have the experience or the references to win your confidence.

It’s important to visit multiple vendors’ offices – at least three to five –and have them demonstrate their CNC routers for you. Request that each of them machine one of your parts, and evaluate both the process and the results. If a vendor doesn't have offices near you, they may be able to introduce you to one of their existing customers who is nearby and can show you how the machine works at their facilities.

A reliable vendor will provide comprehensive training. You want a vendor that can easily explain how the machine works and demonstrate how to use the hardware and software. It’s preferable to have training at your offices so you can do the work on your machine with your operators.

Find out what the vendor will do for you when something goes wrong. When the machinery is an integral part of your business, you can’t afford for it to be down for long periods of time. Ask them how quickly they can have parts available, whether they provide direct support or employ the services of a third party, and if they can repair PC controller issues remotely.

If possible, try to find a vendor that is a reasonable distance from your offices. You’ll still be responsible for transportation costs, but it’s far more economical to do business locally.

When you receive proposals from the vendors, make sure they clearly define everything you get. Read the fine print– what applications you get, an itemized list of costs, and warranty details. Also keep an eye out for “bait and switch” tactics. An unscrupulous vendor could try to pawn off outdated equipment as “like new” without your knowledge. At this point in the deal, there should be no surprises.