CNC Machining RFQ Checklist: Drawings, Materials & Tolerances

Six inputs to prepare before requesting a quote

1. Part and drawing revision: identify the part number, revision and units. Confirm that the 2D drawing and 3D model describe the same revision. Flag any conflict between them for review.
2. Material: specify the grade and any known condition, rather than just “aluminum” or “steel.” If alternatives are acceptable, state whether they need your approval. Identify any material-documentation requirements.
3. Quantity: separate prototype quantity, first-batch quantity and the volume breaks you want quoted. Keep forecast annual demand distinct from the quantity being ordered.
4. Critical features: identify mating surfaces, hole locations, threads, datums and critical tolerances. State the general tolerance convention used on the drawing. Call out exceptional requirements individually so they are not mistaken for a requirement on every feature.
5. Surfaces and secondary operations: describe roughness, cosmetic surfaces, deburring, coating, color or heat-treatment requirements. Where treatment affects a fit, clarify whether the dimension applies before or after treatment.
6. Delivery and inspection: give the requested date, delivery destination, sample-approval process and any dimensional-report, material-documentation or packaging requirements. Availability and cost must be confirmed in the quotation.

How to use 2D drawings, 3D models and photographs

A 3D model describes geometry. A 2D drawing communicates tolerances, threads, datums, surfaces and inspection requirements that may not be explicit in the model. Clear photographs can start a discussion, but missing dimensions, material or tolerances will usually require clarification before the manufacturing scope can be agreed.

The inquiry accepts PDF, STEP/STP, DWG/DXF, PNG, JPG/JPEG or ZIP, with one attachment up to 8 MiB. Bundle related files in one ZIP and identify the controlling revision in your notes. For larger files, contact the team to agree how to share them.

A copyable CNC RFQ template

Compare quotations against the same scope

Before comparing prices, check that drawing revision, material, quantities, finishes, inspection, freight and tax scope match. Ask whether lead time starts at information approval, sample approval or order confirmation. If a sample is required first, identify the production steps that depend on its acceptance.

Common CNC quotation questions

Can I inquire before the drawing is complete?

Yes. Explain the intended use and send the information you have. The team can identify missing inputs. An initial discussion does not confirm manufacturability or a final price.

Can one machining tolerance be guaranteed for every part?

This page makes no universal tolerance commitment. Material, geometry, dimensions, manufacturing and inspection requirements must be reviewed against the particular drawing and agreed technical requirements.

Does uploading a drawing generate an instant price?

No. The form collects information for human review. Drawings are kept outside the public website image library and the download route requires an authorized staff login.

Scope of this checklist and next steps

This checklist helps you prepare an inquiry. See the CNC machining service page for Anjelio's currently published materials and review process. The exact process, inspection capability, cost and delivery conditions need individual confirmation.