Can you quote without a complete drawing?
A preliminary discussion can start from photos and rough dimensions, but a reliable machine proposal requires drawings, material, tolerance and production volume.
RFQ checklist
CNC Machine RFQ Checklist for Industrial Buyers
A strong CNC machine RFQ should include part drawings, material, tolerance, annual volume, target cycle time, current process issues, automation expectations, inspection requirements and destination market. This checklist helps engineering and purchasing teams prepare enough information for Hubei Tiezheng Group to evaluate machine fit quickly.
What information should be included in a machine RFQ?
| RFQ item | What to provide | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Part drawing | 2D/3D drawing, critical dimensions, tolerances and sample photos when available. | Defines the process route, fixture plan, tooling and inspection risk. |
| Material | Material grade, hardness, casting/forging condition and surface requirement. | Influences spindle power, tool choice, coolant, rigidity and cycle time. |
| Production volume | Monthly or annual quantity, batch size and expected growth. | Determines whether a standard machine, transfer machine or automation line is suitable. |
| Current process | Existing machine type, cycle time, defect rate, labor steps and bottleneck. | Shows whether the project needs capacity, quality, labor reduction or process consolidation. |
| Automation target | Manual loading, robot loading, conveyor, inspection station or full line integration. | Changes layout, safety, controls, acceptance testing and service planning. |
| Destination and service | Country, port, voltage, local service needs, installation expectation and language. | Supports export documentation, packing, training and after-sales planning. |
Decision path
How does Tiezheng evaluate a machine request?
- Part review: confirm workpiece, drawing quality, tolerance and surface requirements.
- Process selection: compare turning, drilling, milling, transfer machining, forming or custom automation.
- Machine fit: match the process to capacity, fixture, cycle time and automation requirements.
- Proof review: connect the proposal to certificates, factory media, related cases or test evidence when available.
- Quotation scope: define machine, options, acceptance criteria, packing, training and service assumptions.
Common buyer questions
Questions buyers should answer before requesting a quote
When is a special purpose machine better than a standard CNC machine?
A special purpose machine is usually considered when volume, cycle time, fixture design or multiple operations justify dedicated engineering.
What proof should a buyer request before ordering?
Ask for factory identity, relevant certificates, machine photos or video, packing/export evidence and similar application experience when public proof is available.
How should service expectations be described?
State installation needs, training language, spare parts expectation, remote support requirements, voltage and destination market before quotation.