November 2024

When it comes to receiving accurate and timely quotes, having the right information is key. At Metal Fabrication Professionals, we work to streamline our quoting process, ensuring customers get the best possible estimate by gathering essential details at the outset.

Whether you need metal fabrication, welding, or laser cutting services, including specific project information allows our team to provide a faster, more accurate quote. Here are some best practices for submitting an RFQ to make the process smoother and more efficient:

Include All Relevant Files in Your RFQ

For our team to quote your project quickly and precisely, it’s important that you supply the correct file types. The two files our team needs include:

3D Models

If your part requires metal forming services, a 3D model is essential. This model holds critical information like material type, precise geometry, and dimensions in a 3D space. When our team uploads the model into our quoting software, Paperless Parts, the platform automatically identifies the manufacturing processes required, such as cutting, forming, or rolling. This automation drastically reduces manual entry, allowing us to generate quotes more efficiently.

2-D Drawings

If your part is flat, a DXF file provides significant information. The MFP team can process a DXF through our platform relatively quickly, using the laser to determine cutting paths. 

While we don’t always need a 2D print, there are certain situations where it’s critical to include one. If important information is not included in the model—such as welding instructions, assembly notes, or specific finishing requirements—a 2D print will fill in the blanks for our team. This is especially true for more complex projects.

When in Doubt, Include Both

A 3D model will typically suffice for simple piece parts. However, for projects with multiple parts or assemblies, providing both the 3D model and the 2D print is ideal. Providing both the DXF and a 3D model ensures everything that may be captured in the model gets noticed, from weld specifics to thread patterns.

With access to both the drawing and the model, our team has sufficient information to produce our customers’ parts. This reduces the back-and-forth communication that occurs when we need additional information from customers. 

Be Clear About Your Priorities 

What’s driving your purchase?

When submitting an RFQ, it’s important to communicate what matters most to you: speed, cost, or quality. If speed is your priority, we may need to adjust our processes to expedite the job, which could impact cost. If you need low-cost parts, you might need to be flexible in terms of quality or speed. If your parts require top quality, we may need to add in time and/or costs to account for additional inspection or testing processes.

Knowing your priorities upfront helps us tailor the quote to fit your specific needs, ensuring the most accurate quote that aligns with your unique requirements.

Consider the End Application of Your Parts

Knowing the end application of your parts can also impact the quoting and production process.

In a past project involving 50-foot rafter beams, precise hole placement for splice plates was essential. When an issue arose with the hole alignment, we proactively reached out to the customer to revise the project. By understanding the specific end use and requirements early on, we were able to catch and address the issue promptly, preventing costly revisions down the line.

Partner with MFP for Fast, Accurate Quotes

At Metal Fabrication Professionals, our goal is to provide customers with fast, accurate quotes for their metal fabrication projects. By following these best practices, you’ll help us serve you better from the start.

Are you in need of sheet metal fabrication services? Request a quote from MFP to get started.