CNC Machining RFQ Requirements: Complete Checklist

A CNC machining request for quote (RFQ) helps manufacturers understand your part specifications, estimate production costs, and provide an accurate quotation. To prepare a complete RFQ, include engineering drawings, CAD files, material specifications, tolerances, surface finishes, quantities, inspection requirements, and delivery details. 

A clear RFQ reduces assumptions, avoids unnecessary delays, and makes supplier quotations easier to compare.

1. Engineering Drawings and CAD Files

Provide a dimensioned 2D drawing and a matching 3D CAD model when available. PDF and STEP files are commonly used. Ensure both files show the correct part revision and clarify any discrepancies before requesting a quote. 

2. Part Number and Revision

Identify each component using its part number, description, and current revision. Consistent file names help prevent errors caused by outdated or conflicting documents. 

3. Material Specifications

Specify the exact material grade, alloy, temper or condition, and applicable standard. Include certification or traceability requirements where necessary. Allow material alternatives only when approved. 

4. Dimensions and Tolerances

Define general tolerances, critical dimensions, GD&T requirements, threads, and datum references. Identify features affecting fit, function, or sealing. Tighter tolerances may increase machining and inspection costs, so specify them according to engineering needs. 

5. Surface Finish and Secondary Operations

List required surface roughness, coatings, heat treatment, grinding, honing, deburring, marking, or other finishing operations. Clarify whether dimensional requirements apply before or after finishing. 

6. Order Quantity and Production Plans

State the initial quantity, requested price breaks, and estimated annual usage if known. Identify whether the order is for prototypes or recurring production, as quantities can affect setup, tooling, and unit costs. 

7. Inspection and Quality Requirements

Specify required dimensional reports, First Article Inspection (FAI), material certificates, traceability, or certificates of conformance. Include applicable acceptance criteria and customer-specific documentation requirements. 

8. Delivery and Packaging

Provide the required delivery date, shipping destination, and release schedule. Include any special packaging, labeling, corrosion protection, or handling requirements. 

9. Application and Functional Requirements

Briefly explain the part’s purpose, mating components, operating conditions, and critical features. This context helps the manufacturer assess feasibility and suggest design-for-manufacturability (DFM) improvements where appropriate. 

10. Commercial Terms

Include the quotation deadline, requested pricing structure, tooling cost expectations, relevant purchasing terms, and confidentiality requirements. Ask suppliers to identify assumptions, exclusions, and proposed deviations. 

• Part number, drawing revision, and material.
• Machining scope, tolerances, and finishing operations.
• Tooling and setup costs.
• Quantity pricing and production lead time.
• Inspection, certification, and traceability.
• Packaging, shipping, and commercial terms.
• Exclusions, assumptions, and proposed changes.

A lower unit price may exclude finishing, inspection, or other required services. Confirm that each supplier has quoted the same scope before making a decision.

Avoid sending outdated files, specifying only a broad material category, overlooking finishing requirements, applying unnecessary tight tolerances, omitting quantities, or leaving inspection requirements undefined. Also, clarify unresolved design questions and delivery expectations before finalizing the quotation.

Before submitting your request, confirm that you have:

• Current engineering drawing and CAD model, when available.
• Part number and revision.
• Material grade and condition.
• Dimensions, tolerances, and surface finish.
• Secondary operations and quality requirements.
• Order quantities and future demand, if known.
• Delivery date, destination, and packaging details.
• Commercial terms and quotation deadline.

Resolute Precision Manufacturing provides CNC machining services, including CNC turning, Swiss machining, and milling. For your next prototype or production project, explore our CNC machining services or contact our team to discuss your requirements.

Include your drawings, material specifications, quantities, and critical requirements to help start the quotation process.