The quality of a CNC machining quote depends on the quality of the request. A vague RFQ forces suppliers to guess, and they will either pad the price to cover risk or quote something different from what you need. A complete RFQ gets you a faster, more accurate and more comparable set of quotes.
1. Send both a 3D model and a 2D drawing
- 3D model: STEP (.stp/.step) is the universal choice. IGES and Parasolid (.x_t) also work. Native SolidWorks files are useful if the supplier uses SolidWorks.
- 2D drawing (PDF): the drawing carries tolerances, GD&T, threads, surface finish, material and notes. The 3D model alone doesn't.
Make sure the model and drawing are the same revision. Mismatched revisions are one of the most common causes of delay.
2. Specify the material exactly
"Aluminium" or "stainless" isn't enough. State the grade and temper or condition, for example 6061-T6, 7075-T651, 316L, 17-4PH H1025 or Ti-6Al-4V Grade 5. If a specification is required (ASTM, AMS, EN or BS), include it, and state whether you need a mill test certificate.
3. Give quantities, including future volumes
Ask for prices at several quantity breaks, for example 1, 10, 50 and 250. Mention expected annual volume. Setup and programming costs are fixed, so the unit price changes dramatically with quantity.
4. Make tolerances and critical features clear
Include a general tolerance note (for example ISO 2768-mK) and mark critical-to-function dimensions. If you're not sure, ask the supplier to flag tolerances that drive cost. See CNC tolerances explained.
5. Define surface finish and treatments
State the roughness requirement (for example Ra 1.6 µm) and any treatments: anodising type and colour, plating, passivation, heat treatment, painting or marking. Include the specification if one applies. Our surface finishes guide lists common options.
6. State inspection and documentation requirements
- Certificate of Conformity only?
- Dimensional inspection report? Full or sample?
- First Article Inspection to AS9102?
- Material certificates, process certificates for finishing and heat treatment?
This has a real impact on price, so be explicit. More detail in CMM and FAI explained.
7. Delivery, packaging and commercial terms
State the required delivery date, delivery address and Incoterms (EXW, FOB, CIF, DAP and so on) for international orders. Mention any special packaging, such as individual bagging, VCI corrosion protection or foam inserts for delicate parts.
8. Mention confidentiality
If your drawings are sensitive, ask for an NDA before sending them. Reputable suppliers sign NDAs routinely.
RFQ checklist
- STEP model + PDF drawing, same revision
- Material grade, condition and specification
- Quantities and annual volume
- General tolerance + critical features
- Surface finish and treatments
- Inspection and documentation level
- Required date, Incoterms and destination
- Packaging requirements
- NDA if needed
Ready to send one? Upload your drawing and details on our contact page. Aeroedge International responds to every RFQ within 24 hours and will ask the right questions if anything is missing.
