What Is the 2023 “Customs & Practices of the Moldmaking Industry Guide”?

Back in 2021, MMT sent a call for help to the mold manufacturing industry to update the guidelines and practices to standardize and streamline the mold procurement process. Namely, the Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) “Customs and Practices of the Mold Making Industry” document.

Revisions were prepared by the Equipment Manufacturers & Moldmakers Council, led by Progressive Components’ Glenn Starkey, MSI Mold Builders’ Toby Bral and Accede Mold & Tool’s Camille Sackett, along with industry feedback.

Did you know that the updated guide was released earlier this year?  Here are three important reasons why you should care according to the revisions’ leadership team:

1. Why is this document important? Nothing can sink a relationship
   

   Photo Credit: PLASTICS

   between a mold builder and its customer more than a miscommunication that causes delays and revisions. The Customs and Practices Guide spells out commonly held practices for quoting, holding tolerances and payment structure, facilitating clear communication between mold builders and buyers. Especially with a new mold buyer, this document really sets the tone for communication and the typical expectations of a new mold build.
2. Why did the group decide it was time for an update? The guide was originally issued in the 1970s and became invaluable in establishing terms such as a “Class 101” mold. But, it hadn’t been updated for more than 25 years, so it included references to obsolete technologies, methods, expectations and terms.
3. What is the call to action? Check it out! Mold builders and buyers are encouraged to read and reference the document in RFQs and mold estimates. The team believes this document can be a useful educational tool, especially for those new to the mold buying and development process. Please take a look through it and use it as part of your training for new mold buyers or moldmakers, new project managers, salespeople or management. Everyone wins when there aren’t miscommunications and misunderstandings, so the team asks the industry at large to take the work that has been done and help further spread best practices for our industry.

The guide is complimentary for PLASTICS members and can be purchased by non-members.