The dream for most welders and fabricators is to open a metal fabrication business. This affords them more flexibility in terms of work hours, projects to handle, and project deadlines. However, you might have technical expertise, but still lack business knowledge on how to run a proper metal fabrication shop.

1. The first rule of thumb is to create a business plan that accurately and in detail explain how you intend to run the shop. Having a solid business plan in place is necessary.
2. Before launching a metal fabrication shop, you need to know about metal fabricators in your area because that’s your competition. You need to evaluate your competitors strengths, weaknesses and look for opportunities that position your new business against big brands.
3. Learning the trade of running a metal fabricating shop from people in your business can help you understand the business better, how they approach industrial installations and the secrets of trade.
4. Pick your niche and define your customers because there is household and commercial fabrication, which are very broad segments in themselves.
5. If you are looking to start your won metal fabrication shop, you need a solid insurance cover to cater for occupational hazards
6. Ensure you have the right papers before you start working on projects. Business license is necessary, plus you’ll need an Employer Identification Number and a Unified Business Identifier number. Inquire from your state agencies if there are other permits required to start your shop.