Free RFQ Template Generator

What to Include in a CNC Machining RFQ

An RFQ (Request for Quote) is the document you send to a machine shop when you need pricing on a specific part or assembly. A clear, complete RFQ does two things: it gives the shop everything needed to quote accurately, and it signals that you are a serious, organized buyer. Vague RFQs get padded quotes — or no response at all. The following seven elements should appear in every CNC machining RFQ you send.

1. Part name and quantity needed. State exactly what you are buying and how many. Include a revision level if applicable.
2. Material specification (alloy, temper, grade). Write "6061-T6 aluminum" not just "aluminum." The temper and grade affect machinability, cost, and lead time. Ambiguous specs invite substitutions you may not want.
3. Critical dimensions and tolerances. Call out your tightest tolerance explicitly. Do not assume the shop will find it on the drawing. If a bore must be held to ±0.0005", say so in the RFQ body.
4. Surface finish requirement. Ra 63 (125 µin) is the CNC milling standard. Specify tighter values only where function requires it — every step tighter roughly doubles finishing cost.
5. Quality certifications needed. List any required certifications: ISO 9001, AS9100, ITAR registration, NADCAP for special processes. If you need a Certificate of Conformance, material test reports, or first article inspection, state it here.
6. Delivery requirements. Include your required ship date, delivery location, and any packaging or labeling requirements. Partial shipments acceptable? Say so.
7. Drawings or CAD files. Attach a PDF 2D drawing with GD&T callouts and a STEP or IGES 3D file. Never send only a 3D model — tolerances are not implied by geometry alone.

Common RFQ mistakes to avoid: vague material specs ("any aluminum will do"), missing tolerance callouts, no drawings attached, and omitting quality requirements until after the quote is accepted. Each of these creates rework, delays, and disputes. A two-minute review of your RFQ against this list prevents most of them.

RFQ vs RFP — Which Do You Need?

An RFQ (Request for Quote) is for when your specifications are locked — you know exactly what you want and need a price. An RFP (Request for Proposal) is for when you need vendors to propose a solution: they define the approach, timeline, and price. For CNC machining, an RFQ is almost always correct. If you have a drawing and a material spec, use an RFQ. If you are still figuring out how to make the part, consider a DFM consultation before requesting quotes.