What to send for an accurate CNC machining quote
A practical RFQ checklist for CNC parts: drawings, CAD, material, quantity, tolerances, finish, delivery and the information that changes price.
The fastest quote starts with the right facts
A short message can start a CNC project, but a reliable price needs enough information to choose material, stock, workholding, tools, inspection and delivery. Missing details do not make the quote faster. They move assumptions into the price—or force questions later.
For a made-to-drawing part, send what you know and clearly mark what is still open. MonteMachining can review an early drawing or sketch, but final pricing becomes more dependable when geometry, material, quantity and critical requirements are stable.
Send the 3D model and 2D drawing when both exist
A 3D CAD model is the clearest description of the part's shape. A 2D drawing is usually the clearest place to define:
- critical dimensions and tolerances
- datums and geometric controls
- threads and hole callouts
- surface or edge requirements
- material and revision
- notes that cannot be inferred from the model
Send both when both exist. Make sure the revision matches. If the model and drawing disagree, say which one controls before machining begins.
Do not worry if the first enquiry is not perfect. Send the neutral CAD export or native file you have and we will confirm whether it can be used. A PDF drawing remains valuable even when a model is available.
CNC quote checklist
| Information | Why it changes the quote |
|---|---|
| Part drawing or CAD model | Defines geometry, access, setups and programming work |
| Material and grade | Changes stock availability, cutting time, tools and part behaviour |
| Quantity now | Determines setup cost per part and the machining approach |
| Likely repeat quantity | Helps avoid planning a one-off in a way that makes the next batch inefficient |
| Critical tolerances | Determines process risk and how dimensions need to be checked |
| Surface and edge requirements | Adds finish passes, deburring, handling or outside processing |
| Intended function | Helps identify the features that must fit, seal, guide, rotate or carry load |
| Delivery country and target date | Affects dispatch planning and whether the requested timing is realistic |
Mark the dimensions that truly matter
Putting a very tight tolerance on every dimension can make a part needlessly expensive. Identify the holes, bores, datums and mating surfaces that control function. Give non-critical geometry a practical tolerance.
MonteMachining can machine suitable features down to +/-0.01 mm, but that is not a blanket tolerance for every part. Geometry, material, wall thickness, workholding, temperature, access and the measurement method all matter. The drawing review is where that capability is confirmed.
State the quantity now and later
One part, five parts and fifty parts can need different decisions. A one-off may favour the simplest safe setup. A repeat batch may justify dedicated workholding or a different sequence that improves consistency.
If you need one prototype now and may need twenty after approval, include both numbers. That lets the prototype teach the production process instead of becoming a dead end.
Describe the finish, not only the material
"Aluminium" does not define whether the part can show normal machining marks, needs a specific cosmetic surface, or will later be anodised. The same principle applies to steel, stainless steel, brass and engineering plastics.
Add a photo or short note when appearance matters. If an outside finish is required, name it and identify any surfaces, threads or dimensions that must remain protected.
Copy-and-paste RFQ template
Part: mounting bracket / housing / adapter / other
Files attached: 3D model + drawing, revision
Material:
Quantity now:
Possible repeat quantity:
Critical dimensions or function:
Surface or edge requirement:
Delivery country:
Target date:
Anything still undecided: ___
What if there is no finished drawing?
A clear sketch, photographs and an explanation of where the part fits can start the conversation. They may not be enough for a final price or for machining. Missing dimensions, material or tolerance decisions must be resolved before the part is released.
For custom parts, see CNC parts made to drawing. To request a review, email the files to office@montemachining.com or use the quote form.