When you’re sourcing parts from our fabrication and machine shop, you don’t always have time to chase a quote or answer multiple rounds of follow-up questions.
We’ve seen firsthand how quoting delays can disrupt timelines and add unnecessary friction to a project. With this in mind, we’ve refined our quoting system at Axis Fabrication & Machine to eliminate delays, reduce back-and-forth, and provide you with transparent pricing up front. But even the best tools rely on one thing: a complete RFQ. Here’s what our Knoxville machine shop needs from you to move quickly, and how we support you every step of the way.
The Technology Behind Our Modern Quoting Process
About nine months ago, Axis Fab implemented Paperless Parts, a powerful quoting platform that has helped streamline the process of building and sending quotes. Because the system is directly integrated into our shop operations, it accurately reflects our actual processes, equipment, and capabilities. That means it takes into account key details like:
- Feeds and speeds based on real-world machining data
- Our specific production workflows and setups
- Current tooling, materials, and process steps
With this added context, we can generate more accurate custom metal fabrication quotes based on how your job would run in our facility, rather than relying on broad industry averages. And if we’ve previously quoted or built a similar part, we can easily reference that history to inform pricing.
What to Include in Your RFQ
When critical details are missing, we often need to send multiple emails to gather what we need, turning what could be a same-day quote into a multi-day process. To keep the quoting process smooth and efficient, here’s what we recommend including in every request:
- 3D Models (STEP files preferred): Models provide a comprehensive view of your part by highlighting critical features that may not be visible in 2D drawings, such as specific radius measurements or how cuts intersect with walls. Having insight into the actual geometry of your part is crucial, as it allows us to generate accurate machining time estimates. About half of the quotes we receive don’t include a 3D model, which can significantly slow down the quote process.
- Quantity: Volume directly affects everything about how we approach the production of your parts. For example, we might choose to use an entirely different piece of equipment and manufacturing process for a five-part order versus a 500-part order. When you let us know the exact quantity you need, we’ll be able to quote the most cost-effective approach.
- Material and Source: Beyond specifying the grade, it’s essential to know who supplies the material or whether specialty items, such as custom extrusions, are involved. Sometimes we encounter material selections that are nearly impossible to source. If you’re open to substitutions, let us know in your custom metal fabrication quote so we can offer suggestions that could save you time and money.
- Finish Requirements: Any post-processing needs, such as anodizing or powder coating, should be specified on the quote request. Because these steps impact cost and lead time, we’ll need to rework the pricing if they’re added after the initial quote.
- Tolerances and Critical Features: Here’s a real example: achieving perfectly square internal corners on your part might cost $3,000, but accepting a 0.060″ radius could bring that same feature down to $5. Every fabrication and machine shop faces these realities. Being clear about where you need precision versus where you have flexibility helps us optimize both price and manufacturability.
- Certifications and Documentation: This is the most commonly overlooked item, with approximately 85% of the initial RFQs we receive failing to mention quality requirements. If you need material certifications, dimensional inspection reports, certificates of conformance, or any other documentation, include these requirements upfront. Finding out after the PO is issued means we have to revise the quote, you have to amend the PO, and everyone loses time.
Lastly, if you’re open to minor design changes, such as adjusting a tight radius or accepting a more readily available material, include that note in your RFQ. We’ll always confirm any changes with you, but knowing you’re open to suggestions helps us provide cost-saving alternatives when appropriate.
When You Send a Clear and Complete RFQ, Everyone Wins
Our quoting process is designed for speed and accuracy, but it relies on obtaining the correct information upfront. When your RFQ includes complete specs, precise quantities, material details, and any required certifications or finishes, it helps us avoid delays, eliminate guesswork, and provide you with the information you need quickly.
Our team reviews every request carefully. If something’s missing, our fabrication and machine shop will follow up quickly so your project doesn’t get stuck in limbo. Our customer-focused team is here to work with you, answer your questions, and make sure your part is ready for production. If you’re unsure about what to include or have questions about the quote process, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’ll walk you through it to make sure nothing gets missed.
Do you need pricing for an upcoming project? Request a quote today to get started.