Choosing a calibration laboratory is a quality decision, not just a purchasing one. The wrong choice can introduce audit risk, schedule delays, and measurement errors that ripple through your products. Before you commit a contract or a fleet of instruments to any Phoenix-area lab, ask these seven questions.
1. Are you ISO/IEC 17025 accredited — and by whom?
Ask for the accreditation body and certificate number, then verify it. 'Compliant' is not 'accredited.' FCI is accredited by IAS under certificate CL-112. Also ask to see the accreditation scope, which defines exactly which measurements are covered.
2. Will I receive as-found and as-left data?
As-found data records the instrument's condition before adjustment; as-left records it after. This is essential for impact assessment — if an instrument is found out of tolerance, as-found data tells you what product may be affected. FCI provides as-found / as-left data as a standard deliverable, not an upcharge.
3. Do you actually have a lab in Phoenix?
Several providers ranking for 'Phoenix calibration' have no physical Phoenix presence — they ship your instruments out of state or rely on third-party networks. A local lab means shorter turnaround, real pickup and delivery, and on-site service. FCI has operated from Ahwatukee since 1983.
4. What is your quoted turnaround — and is it guaranteed?
Ask for a written SLA. FCI commits to a quote within one business day and calibration within five business days standard, two business days rush. Vague answers here usually mean vague delivery.
5. Can you cover all my disciplines?
Consolidating dimensional, mechanical, electrical, RF, thermal, chemical, and pressure calibration with one accredited supplier simplifies your gauge program and your supplier-quality footprint. FCI covers all seven disciplines under one accreditation.
6. Do you understand my industry's requirements?
Aerospace needs AS9100 alignment and ANSI/NCSL Z540-1-1994; medical needs ISO 13485 and FDA-audit documentation; semiconductor needs tight dimensional and thermal capability. Ask whether the lab serves your industry specifically. FCI serves aerospace, defense, semiconductor, medical, pharma, and government customers across Phoenix.
7. Can you support government and set-aside requirements?
If you're a government contractor or prime supplier, your calibration partner's business status can matter for flow-down and set-aside goals. FCI is an Alaska Native Corporation subsidiary, Buy Indian Act listed and pursuing SBA 8(a) certification — registered under CAGE 5YJ59 and SAM UEI H1DMGK48HAX5, a procurement advantage unique among Phoenix labs.
Ask these questions of any provider you're considering. If you'd like FCI's answers in writing — including our IAS scope and capability statement — request a quote and we'll respond within one business day.