For a fast technical review, supply one controlled geometry source, a bill of materials or part list, quantities, material intent, revision identity and marked critical requirements. Separate the desired finished geometry from helpful reference documents.
RFQ preflight
| Item | Include |
|---|---|
| Geometry | 1:1 vector/CAD export, stated units and one outline per intended feature |
| Operations | Profile, through-cut, pocket/rebate, hole/slot or engraving, with depths |
| Parts | Unique part ID, revision and quantity |
| Material | Grade/type, nominal thickness, face/grain intent and supplied-or-sourced status |
| Quality | Critical dimensions, fit class, cosmetic face and acceptance method |
| Context | Assembly drawing, mating hardware and photographs where useful |
The enquiry form identifies the file extensions and upload limit currently accepted. If your controlled source cannot be attached, send the project summary first and agree a suitable file-transfer route before sharing it.
Geometry rules
Use closed paths for closed profiles. Remove duplicates and construction geometry. Convert text only when the design rights permit it, and retain a readable reference showing the intended wording. Put depths and operation names in a marked drawing or agreed layer convention. Run the DXF/SVG preparation checklist.
Revisions and approval
Every file should carry a part ID and revision. State which files are superseded. A repeat order must still confirm revision, quantity, material and any change in mating parts. Use a durable parts-and-revision method.
Fits and tolerances
Do not use a general machining tolerance as a substitute for functional requirements. Mark mating interfaces and say whether clearance, alignment or retention matters. Material variation, finish build and cutter geometry may justify a project-specific coupon. Read the fit and tolerance guide.
What not to bury in a filename
Do not rely on filenames alone for quantities, depths, finish side, grain direction or approval status. Include a human-readable RFQ summary that can be checked independently of the CAD software.
Resolving an RFQ revision conflict
If a trade RFQ contains six part numbers, two materials and a revision table, a hole change sent only in a later email can easily be missed. Put the change into the controlled drawing or revision package and identify which earlier file it supersedes.
Build the controlled RFQ package
| Decision | Evidence to use | Consequence |
|---|---|---|
| Source of truth | Use one RFQ index naming every active file and revision. | Email commentary cannot silently override production geometry. |
| Part identification | Give mirrored and face-specific components separate IDs. | Quantity and orientation stay auditable through nesting and packing. |
| Tolerance schedule | Attach requirements only to features that need them. | General notes do not obscure functional interfaces. |
| Approval package | Freeze geometry, BOM, material and deviations together. | The accepted quote points to one reproducible set. |
RFQ errors that stop reliable quoting
Units import correctly but the file scale is still wrong.
Include an independent check dimension and verify the exported file in another viewer.
Part quantity differs between the BOM and filename.
Use the BOM as the quantity authority and reject the package until conflicts are resolved.
Text remains as a software-dependent font.
Supply a readable reference and rights-cleared outlined geometry where engraving is required.
A repeat order cites an old purchase rather than its revision.
Link the new enquiry to the earlier job, then reconfirm every active part, material and quantity.
Technical RFQ checklist
- Provide one RFQ cover/index.
- State units, scale and export version.
- List part ID, revision and order quantity.
- Name exact material or substitution rules.
- Map operation and depth by layer or drawing.
- Mark datums and critical-to-function dimensions.
- Include front/back, face and grain orientation.
- Attach mating-part or assembly context.
- Identify superseded files explicitly.
Technical file questions
Should geometry include cutter compensation?
Provide desired finished geometry unless a compensation convention has been agreed for this job.
Can one general tolerance cover the drawing?
Only when its scope is appropriate. Functional fits and material-dependent features usually need explicit treatment.
What makes a repeat RFQ fast?
A stable part ID, confirmed revision, clean BOM, unchanged evidence reference and a concise list of differences.
Confirm the accepted production package
Before ordering, confirm the accepted file package, active revision, units, material, quantity, tool constraints, inspection points and included stages in the quotation. If a native file cannot be attached, send the project summary first and agree a suitable transfer route in the response.
Send the controlled RFQ
Send the controlled RFQ package. If the geometry is not ready, start with file-format and vector-preparation guidance.