5 things to send with a quote request (and 1 thing not to)

The fastest way to get a useful quote is to send us five things up front. With them, we can usually come back the same day. Without them, we end up trading emails for a week.

1. A drawing — even a rough one

A clean 2D drawing or a STEP file is best, but a marked-up sketch with dimensions is fine to start. We just need to understand the shape, the critical dimensions, and what is non-negotiable. If you have only a sample part, send a few photos with a ruler in the frame.

2. Quantity — and whether it repeats

A one-off prototype, a batch of 50, and a 5,000-unit annual contract all price differently. If the part is going to repeat — every month, every quarter — tell us. The unit price drops fast when we can plan around a recurring run.

3. Material

Mild steel, stainless, aluminium, brass — and the grade if it matters (304 vs 316, 6061 vs 2024, etc.). If you don't know yet, tell us what the part has to do. We'll suggest something sensible and confirm before cutting.

4. Finish

Mill finish, powder coat, paint, plating, brushed, anodised — finish often costs more than people expect. Telling us up front avoids surprises later. If the finish is decorative, attach a colour reference.

5. When you need it

A real deadline. Not "as soon as possible" — that means nothing. If it's three weeks, say three weeks. If it's six, say six. We will tell you honestly whether we can hit it.

And one thing not to send

Don't send a target price you've decided in advance. We're happy to design to a budget — but starting from a number disconnected from the work usually leads to bad outcomes for both sides. Send the requirement, and let the quote come back to you. If it's too high, we'll talk about how to bring it down.