What should I send for a CNC machining quote?

Send a 3D model or drawing when available, material, quantity, overall dimensions, critical tolerances, surface finish or coating, threads and special features, and the required delivery date.

Do I need both a STEP file and a drawing?

A STEP file is useful for geometry, while a drawing is best for critical dimensions, tolerances, threads, finishes and notes. For simple parts, one may be enough if the missing information is clearly stated.

What to Send for a Machining Quote

The better the quote package, the fewer assumptions a shop has to make. That usually means faster pricing, fewer emails back and forth, and a lower chance of surprises after the job starts.

Minimum useful quote package: part geometry, material, quantity, critical dimensions/tolerances, finish requirements, and when you need the parts.

CNC machining quote checklist

1. CAD model or drawing

STEP or STP is a strong general-purpose format for 3D geometry. A dimensioned PDF drawing is useful for tolerances, threads, notes and inspection requirements.

2. Material

State the exact material when it matters: for example 6061-T6 aluminum, 304 stainless, 1018 steel or a specific plastic grade.

3. Quantity

Setup time can dominate one-off work. Always provide the total quantity and whether you expect repeat orders.

4. Critical tolerances

Do not tolerance every dimension tightly by default. Identify only the dimensions, fits, holes and relationships that actually matter to function.

5. Threads & special features

Call out thread size, depth, class when needed, tapped vs. through, counterbores, countersinks, keyways, grooves or special edge conditions.

6. Finish or coating

Specify anodize, plating, passivation, paint, bead blast, surface finish, deburring or no special finish.

7. Inspection requirements

If you need a report, first article, material certification, CMM inspection or another deliverable, include that in the quote package.

8. Deadline

State the date parts are needed. Rush work can change both process planning and price.

STEP file, drawing, or both?

A STEP file communicates 3D shape well. A drawing communicates manufacturing intent: tolerances, threads, finishes, datum relationships and notes. When a part has critical features, sending both is usually the clearest package.

What makes a machining quote more expensive?

Very tight tolerances that are not functionally necessary
Multiple setups or difficult tool access
Deep pockets, tiny tools or extreme length-to-diameter features
Hard-to-machine materials
Complex fixturing
Special finishes or outside processing
Inspection and documentation requirements
Rush delivery

What if the design is not ready for a machine shop?

LayerForge can review geometry, tolerances and drawing information before the part is quoted. If a small design change can reduce setup time or simplify machining, it is usually better to catch that before sending the job out.

For design help first, see DFM Review or CAD & SolidWorks Help.

Need a machining quote?

Send the files and whatever information you have. LayerForge can review the package, identify missing quote information, and provide or source a machining quote when the job is a good fit.

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Or return to the main CNC Machining Quote page.