The complete RFQ package
Assemble everything a supplier needs to compute a real number: the drawing or profile definition, alloy and temper, finish, quantity and repeats, cut lengths and tolerances, fabrication steps, packaging, delivery destination and timing, and any quality documentation.
- Drawing (PDF) and CAD file (DWG, DXF, STEP, STP)
- Alloy, temper, finish and color reference
- Quantity, quantity unit and annual forecast
- Tolerances on critical-to-quality features
- Fabrication, packaging and delivery requirements
- Application description for design feedback
Structuring the request
Put the specification in a consistent format with a revision reference so later conversations stay anchored. Separate one-time project quantities from forecasted repeats, and state whether you want tooling amortized or quoted separately.
Questions worth asking suppliers
Ask about die cost and ownership, tooling and sample lead times, tolerance capability on critical features, where finishing is performed, quote validity and how metal-market movement is handled. These answers differentiate suppliers far more than the headline unit price.
Comparing the responses
Normalize assumptions first — same alloy, finish standard, Incoterms and volume band. Then compare delivered cost, lead time, tooling structure and the quality of the technical engagement. The best supplier often is not the cheapest quote on first inspection.