7 Questions You Must Ask Before Buying a Can Making Machine (+ Practical Solutions)

For any can manufacturer or food canning factory, purchasing a new can making machine is more than just acquiring equipment — it’s a long-term operational commitment. The right metal packaging machinery impacts product quality, production efficiency, and total cost of ownership for years to come.

Modern food can production lines involve a series of precisely synchronized machines — from body makers and necking machines to flangers, seamers, and end making systems. Each plays a critical role, and even a small mismatch can result in downtime or quality issues.

Asking the right procurement questions helps buyers avoid hidden risks, ensure smooth integration, and safeguard return on investment. Below are seven essential questions — and practical, experience-based answers — every buyer should review before signing a purchase order.

The 7 Key Procurement Questions and Solutions

1. What Production Capacity Do I Really Need?

Buyer Concern:
“We want to expand capacity, but we’re unsure what output range our line should target.”

Expert Explanation:
Production capacity depends on several factors: can size, material thickness, production shifts, and market demand. Overspecifying capacity increases investment costs; underspecifying it leads to bottlenecks.

Practical Solution:
Start by calculating your daily and annual can output targets. For example, if your plant operates two 8-hour shifts at 85% efficiency, multiply that by the machine’s stroke rate to estimate needed throughput. Discuss this data with your can making machine manufacturer to match the right model — for instance, a high-speed necking machine or a multi-station flanger designed for your volume and can diameter range.

2. How Do I Ensure Equipment Compatibility with My Existing Line?

Buyer Concern:
“Our current line includes older machines — will new ones integrate smoothly?”

Expert Explanation:
In complex can making equipment setups, incompatibility between new and existing systems can cause misalignment, uneven flow, or control errors.

Practical Solution:
Request technical layout drawings and, ideally, a 3D line simulation before purchase. Ensure the new machine’s PLC, electrical voltage, and control interfaces are compatible with your current automation platform. Leading manufacturers like SHIN I MACHINERY provide integration support to verify mechanical and electrical alignment before shipment, reducing installation risks.

3. What About Machine Maintenance and Spare Parts Availability?

Buyer Concern:
“We’re concerned about downtime if a part fails or service is delayed.”

Expert Explanation:
All metal packaging machinery requires routine maintenance. Common wear parts — such as forming tools, rollers, and bearings — should be readily available. Delayed part delivery can halt production and affect delivery schedules.

Practical Solution:
Before purchasing, ask for a recommended spare parts list and confirm local or regional stock availability. SHIN I MACHINERY operates a global service and parts network, ensuring rapid response and genuine component supply. Establish a preventive maintenance plan aligned with production cycles to extend machine life and uptime.

4. Is the Machine Compliant with International Safety and Quality Standards?

Buyer Concern:
“Our clients demand food-grade compliance — how do we verify this?”

Expert Explanation:
Compliance ensures both operational safety and market access. Look for ISO-certified manufacturing processes and machines conforming to CE marking, UL, or local safety directives. Food can production also requires materials and lubricants that meet hygiene standards.

Practical Solution:
Ask your supplier for documented proof of compliance — such as CE certificates, electrical safety reports, or food-contact material declarations. SHIN I MACHINERY’s production adheres to international standards, enabling global customers to pass audits and inspections smoothly.

5. How Flexible Is the Machine for Different Can Sizes or Products?

Buyer Concern:
“Our product range may expand — will the machine adapt?”

Expert Explanation:
Market demands change, and rigid systems can become obsolete. Machines with modular tooling or adjustable setups can handle various can diameters, heights, or end designs without full replacement.

Practical Solution:
Choose machines featuring quick-change tooling or servo-adjustable components. For example, SHIN I MACHINERY’s modular designs allow operators to switch between formats efficiently — ideal for both beverage and food can production. Flexibility future-proofs your investment and minimizes downtime during changeovers.

6. What Are the Hidden Costs in Installation and Training?

Buyer Concern:
“The quoted price looks good — but what about installation, freight, or operator training?”

Expert Explanation:
Procurement budgets often overlook after-sales costs. Installation, commissioning, and on-site training are essential for stable startup but may not be included in the machine price.

Practical Solution:
Request a comprehensive quotation specifying what’s included: installation supervision, operator training, control software setup, and trial production. SHIN I MACHINERY provides structured training programs and documentation to ensure smooth commissioning and faster return to production.

7. How Reliable Is the Supplier’s Track Record?

Buyer Concern:
“Can we trust this supplier to deliver on time and support us long-term?”

Expert Explanation:
Reliability is proven through track record, not promises. Long-term manufacturers with established export history and customer references are lower risk partners.

Practical Solution:
Check the supplier’s project portfolio, client testimonials, and years in business. Verify whether they provide consistent post-installation support. With over 65 years of experience, SHIN I MACHINERY WORKS CO., LTD. has earned global trust as a leading can making machine manufacturer, delivering equipment for industrial canning solutions in over 60 countries.

Final Checklist for Procurement

Before finalizing your next equipment purchase, confirm that you have:

  • Calculated production capacity requirements based on output goals.
  • Verified machine compatibility with your existing line layout.
  • Reviewed spare parts availability and service coverage.
  • Checked compliance with all relevant safety and quality standards.
  • Confirmed machine flexibility for future can formats.
  • Clarified installation, training, and warranty scope.
  • Evaluated the supplier’s credibility and project references.

Next Step:
Contact SHIN I MACHINERY for a technical consultation or tailored project evaluation. Our engineers can analyze your production goals and recommend the right solution to reduce risk and optimize productivity.