When quotes take longer, it’s usually for one of two reasons: the RFQ arrived without all the necessary information, or the part’s complexity required more time to determine the best manufacturing approach.
Understanding what goes into the estimating process, and what information we need to quote correctly, can set you up for success when it’s time to submit your next RFQ.
What Happens After We Receive Your RFQ
When our estimator receives a new RFQ, they begin by reviewing the part’s 3D model and drawing, paying particular attention to the requested material, quantity, tolerances, finish specifications, inspection requirements, and notes.
This information helps the estimator determine how best to manufacture the part, considering details such as how to hold the part, the number of setups, tooling, and estimated machining time. If the part requires outside processing or has specific inspection requirements, they’ll factor those details in as well.
If the drawing and model don’t match, or if information is missing, they’ll reach out with questions or requests for documentation before finalizing the quote.
Six Things to Check Before Submitting Your RFQ
When our team receives a complete RFQ package, it reduces (or even eliminates) back-and-forth and helps us turn your quote around as quickly as possible.
Here are a few key things to check for before you submit your next RFQ:
1. Did you submit a drawing and the 3D CAD model? Although both documents play an important role in quoting, we often receive a drawing without a CAD model. If you have both, please send them, as they help us evaluate the part’s geometry and determine how to make it.
2. Do the drawing, 3D model, and RFQ notes agree with each other? If your part has gone through different revisions, make sure you’re sending the most up-to-date version of each. It’s also a good idea to double-check dimensions, features, and material callouts to ensure the details are consistent.
3. Have you included specific details about the part’s material or required finish? If the material or finish is missing, vague, or inconsistent, we’ll often need to reach out for clarification before choosing stock or getting a price on outside finishing requirements.
4. Are the callouts complete? Include details on threads, tolerances, surface finish requirements, and inspection requirements. If these details are already included, make sure there is no disagreement between the drawing and 3D model.
5. Are tight tolerances applied broadly without identifying critical features? If every dimension is treated the same, with tight tolerances across the board, we may reach out during quoting to confirm that was intentional. That answer changes both the machining and the inspection plan.
6. Have you clarified the quantity of parts needed? The machining process can change entirely depending on how many parts a customer needs and whether there are recurring production needs. Having this information upfront lets us determine the most cost-effective production plan. For larger repeat quantities, for example, custom tooling or fixtures may be a viable option that reduces long-term costs.
Double-checking these six items helps prevent the most common RFQ issues we see at Approved Machining.
Why a Complete RFQ May Still Take More Time
Parts with features such as thin walls, deep pockets, small internal features, or features on several faces may look simple enough on screen, but can require some additional planning to make correctly. This process includes how to hold the part, how to reach each feature, and whether multiple setups, special tools, or a fixture are necessary.
Similarly, if a part has tight tolerances, the estimator must consider how to hold the specified dimensions through every operation and verify them afterward.
Material and secondary processing requirements can add time, too. An uncommon alloy or specific sourcing restriction may require us to confirm stock availability, price, and lead time with a supplier. If the part needs anodizing, plating, heat treating, or grinding, we may need pricing and scheduling information from an outside processor. We also have to consider when those steps happen and whether they affect dimensions or surfaces that must meet the specifications.
Let’s Keep Your Quote Moving
If we find a missing or conflicting requirement in your RFQ package, you can count on a prompt follow-up call or email from our estimating team. The faster we receive those missing details, the faster we can move forward with the quoting process.
If we come back with questions you’re not sure about, we’re always happy to help. Rather than guessing, let’s talk through your part’s manufacturability together. Give us a call or request a quote to get started.