Tool Relocation

Transfer your injection molding tool without production downtime: INTERNORM takes over your tool, inspects it, refurbishes it, and restarts production.

Tool Transfer at INTERNORM

What is a tool transfer?

A tool transfer means moving existing injection molding tools quickly and securely into a new series production—without downtime and without compromising on quality or supply reliability. INTERNORM Kunststofftechnik GmbH supports companies with tool takeovers, supplier changes, and production relocations—from technical analysis and sampling to full-scale series production.

Whether due to supplier insolvency, quality issues, capacity bottlenecks, or strategic realignment: a successful tool transfer requires experience, technical expertise, and quick decision-making. With our in-house tool shop, modern injection molding technology, and additional expertise in PUR casting, INTERNORM provides everything needed to reliably continue existing production and sustainably secure your supply chain.

When is a tool transfer necessary?

A tool transfer is necessary when existing production can no longer be reliably maintained due to economic, quality-related, or organizational challenges. In many cases, changing suppliers in injection molding is the most effective way to maintain supply security and avoid production downtime. Typical reasons for a tool transfer include:

  • Imminent or actual insolvency of the current supplier
  • Persistent quality issues or rising scrap rates
  • Capacity bottlenecks at the current manufacturer
  • Increasing cost pressure and new tender processes
  • Delivery delays and poor on-time performance
  • Strategic risk management through second-source or dual-sourcing strategies

Important to know: Tool relocation involves transferring production to a new manufacturing partner, while the tool itself generally remains the property of the customer. The goal is to continue existing production at a new location with minimal effort and no loss of quality. In critical situations, such as supplier insolvency or acute delivery issues, acting quickly is essential. A structured relocation helps stabilize the supply chain, secure production, and protect existing tool investments for the long term.

Tool Relocation at INTERNORM Kunststofftechnik
Refurbishment of an injection molding tool at INTERNORM Kunststofftechnik

Tool Relocation at INTERNORM — The Takeover Process

A successful tool relocation follows a clearly structured process. Depending on the condition of the tool, the status of the documentation, and the complexity of the project, the start of series production typically takes place within four to eight weeks.

Initial Consultation & Needs Analysis
In the first step, we discuss your current situation together. We clarify details such as the affected components, required quantities, delivery deadlines, and the reasons for the planned relocation. The initial consultation is non-binding and free of charge.

Technical Tool Assessment
Next, our experts evaluate the technical condition of the tool. We review existing drawings, CAD data, inspection reports, and other documentation. Depending on the situation, the assessment is carried out based on the documents or directly on-site.

Tool Takeover & Refurbishment
Once approved, the tool is transferred to INTERNORM. Our in-house toolmakers handle any necessary maintenance, repairs, or optimizations. Repairs are billed transparently and fairly based on the work performed.

Initial Samples & Approval
Before starting series production, we manufacture initial samples based on the transferred tool. These are checked for dimensional accuracy, function, and quality, and are then approved together with you.

Series Production
Once approval is granted, we take over the ongoing production of your plastic components. Through defined quality processes and structured production monitoring, we ensure your supply capability is restored quickly.

The INTERNORM advantage: In addition to traditional injection molding tool transfers, we can also take over components produced via PUR casting. This allows even mixed product portfolios with different manufacturing technologies to be managed centrally by a single partner.

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Tool Relocation

04.08.2026

8 minutes

Tool Transfer at INTERNORM

What is a tool transfer?

A tool transfer means moving existing injection molding tools quickly and securely into a new series production—without downtime and without compromising on quality or supply reliability. INTERNORM Kunststofftechnik GmbH supports companies with tool takeovers, supplier changes, and production relocations—from technical analysis and sampling to full-scale series production.

Whether due to supplier insolvency, quality issues, capacity bottlenecks, or strategic realignment: a successful tool transfer requires experience, technical expertise, and quick decision-making. With our in-house tool shop, modern injection molding technology, and additional expertise in PUR casting, INTERNORM provides everything needed to reliably continue existing production and sustainably secure your supply chain.

When is a tool transfer necessary?

A tool transfer is necessary when existing production can no longer be reliably maintained due to economic, quality-related, or organizational challenges. In many cases, changing suppliers in injection molding is the most effective way to maintain supply security and avoid production downtime. Typical reasons for a tool transfer include:

  • Imminent or actual insolvency of the current supplier
  • Persistent quality issues or rising scrap rates
  • Capacity bottlenecks at the current manufacturer
  • Increasing cost pressure and new tender processes
  • Delivery delays and poor on-time performance
  • Strategic risk management through second-source or dual-sourcing strategies

Important to know: Tool relocation involves transferring production to a new manufacturing partner, while the tool itself generally remains the property of the customer. The goal is to continue existing production at a new location with minimal effort and no loss of quality. In critical situations, such as supplier insolvency or acute delivery issues, acting quickly is essential. A structured relocation helps stabilize the supply chain, secure production, and protect existing tool investments for the long term.

Tool Relocation at INTERNORM — The Takeover Process

A successful tool relocation follows a clearly structured process. Depending on the condition of the tool, the status of the documentation, and the complexity of the project, the start of series production typically takes place within four to eight weeks.

Initial Consultation & Needs Analysis
In the first step, we discuss your current situation together. We clarify details such as the affected components, required quantities, delivery deadlines, and the reasons for the planned relocation. The initial consultation is non-binding and free of charge.

Technical Tool Assessment
Next, our experts evaluate the technical condition of the tool. We review existing drawings, CAD data, inspection reports, and other documentation. Depending on the situation, the assessment is carried out based on the documents or directly on-site.

Tool Takeover & Refurbishment
Once approved, the tool is transferred to INTERNORM. Our in-house toolmakers handle any necessary maintenance, repairs, or optimizations. Repairs are billed transparently and fairly based on the work performed.

Initial Samples & Approval
Before starting series production, we manufacture initial samples based on the transferred tool. These are checked for dimensional accuracy, function, and quality, and are then approved together with you.

Series Production
Once approval is granted, we take over the ongoing production of your plastic components. Through defined quality processes and structured production monitoring, we ensure your supply capability is restored quickly.

The INTERNORM advantage: In addition to traditional injection molding tool transfers, we can also take over components produced via PUR casting. This allows even mixed product portfolios with different manufacturing technologies to be managed centrally by a single partner.

Refurbishment of an injection molding tool at INTERNORM Kunststofftechnik

Tool transfer checklist — what you should provide

A successful tool transfer begins with thorough preparation. To ensure that the takeover, analysis, and subsequent series production can be planned efficiently, we have compiled the most important information and documents for you in a practical checklist.

Even if you do not have all the information available at the time of your inquiry, it is worth taking a look at the checklist. We will work with you to determine which details are required for your project and which information can be provided at a later stage.

Download our tool relocation checklist now and create the perfect foundation for a seamless tool transfer.

Tool relocation with INTERNORM: Your benefits

INTERNORM is your partner for tool relocations, tool transfers, and production takeovers in injection molding. Our goal is to quickly transition existing tools into stable series production and secure your long-term supply capability.

A key advantage: We combine injection molding and PUR casting under one roof. This allows projects involving different manufacturing technologies to be managed centrally, without the need for additional suppliers or interfaces. Especially for established product portfolios, this creates greater flexibility and reduces coordination efforts.

Thanks to our in-house tool shop, maintenance, repairs, and optimizations can be carried out directly on-site. This shortens response times and enables a quick resumption of production. We ensure a secure tool transfer through modern measurement technology, structured initial sample inspections, and dimensional checks based on your drawings and specifications. This is how we ensure that the quality and function of your components are maintained.

A successful tool relocation does not begin with the transport of the tool, but with an understanding of the entire process. Our goal is to quickly transition existing tools into stable and reproducible series production – without compromising on quality or supply reliability.

Andreas Wehming
Injection Molding Product Manager

Tool relocation for injection molding

Part of the GRIMME Group

We are part of the GRIMME Group, one of the world's leading manufacturers of agricultural machinery. This close connection allows us to combine the agility of a highly specialized plastics expert with the strength and innovative power of a global technology leader.

For you, this means: you benefit from the flexibility and personal service of a medium-sized company while enjoying the security and resources of an international corporate group.

Contact for Tool Relocation: Andreas Wehming

Get in touch with us!

From tool transfer to series production, INTERNORM supports the entire relocation process. With our own in-house tool shop and expertise in injection molding and PUR casting, we ensure the secure and reliable continuation of your production.

Andreas Wehming

Product Manager Injection Molding

Phone: +49 5491 9691-459

Email:  a.wehming@internorm.de

Table of Contents

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FAQ

Here you will find direct answers to frequently asked questions about tool relocations at INTERNORM.

What does tool transfer mean?
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Tool transfer means that a production facility takes over an existing injection mold—which remains the property of the customer—from a previous supplier and continues series production. The goal is to ensure supply capability without the need for new tooling. INTERNORM takes over tools, including any necessary refurbishment and initial sample production.

How long does a tool relocation take?
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Depending on the condition of the tool and the availability of documentation, a tool relocation typically takes 4 to 8 weeks until the start of series production. For simple tools in good condition, a faster ramp-up is possible. INTERNORM provides a binding schedule after an initial assessment.

What does a tool relocation cost?
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The costs of a tool relocation depend on the condition of the tool, the need for refurbishment, and the effort required for initial samples and approvals. INTERNORM provides a transparent quote following a free initial consultation and tool assessment.

When does a tool relocation become necessary?
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A tool relocation becomes necessary in the event of a supplier's insolvency or business closure. The number of restructurings and insolvencies in the plastics industry has increased significantly in recent years, often creating an urgent need for action for purchasing departments. Existing tools must be taken over at short notice to ensure the supply of one's own production. Furthermore, a tool relocation becomes necessary due to quality issues. Repeated complaints, high scrap rates, or unstable manufacturing processes may necessitate a change of supplier. Capacity bottlenecks also make relocation necessary. Increasing demand or insufficient machine capacity often lead to the need for additional manufacturing partners. Additionally, a strategic change of supplier can be the reason. Many companies want to consciously reduce their dependence on suppliers and therefore rely on second-source strategies, dual sourcing, risk minimization, and nearshoring to make their supply chains more robust.

What are the biggest risks in a tool relocation?
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A tool relocation involves technical and organizational challenges. Typical risks include damage to the tool during transport, missing documentation, lost process knowledge, unavailable spare parts, unknown tool history, deviations in dimensional accuracy and quality, as well as production downtime. Therefore, every relocation project should begin with a technical assessment of the tool.