A quote is only as accurate as the information behind it. When a request is missing details, the supplier has to guess or ask questions, and either one adds days. Below is a checklist of what to include. If you cannot supply every item, send what you have and tell us what is still open. ALG Technology (CONG TY TNHH CONG NGHE ALG, Ho Chi Minh City) issues a formal quote within 1–3 business days once the drawings are complete, so the completeness of your package is the main thing that sets the pace.
1. 2D drawing with tolerances
Send a PDF drawing, and a native CAD drawing file if you have one. Check that it includes:
- Dimensions and tolerances on every feature that matters.
- General tolerance note for dimensions that are not individually toleranced.
- Material callout, thickness, and any heat treatment.
- Surface finish and coating notes.
- Revision level and date.
A drawing that shows only nominal dimensions forces the supplier to assume tolerances, and the assumption may not match what you need.
2. 3D model (STEP)
Send a STEP file (.step or .stp). It lets the engineer check geometry, unfold sheet-metal parts, review bend and hole positions, and design tooling. If the 2D drawing and the 3D model disagree, say which one governs.
3. Material and thickness
State the material grade and the thickness, and the standard it follows (for example an ASTM or other specification you work to). If you will accept equivalents, say so, because a locally available equivalent grade can shorten lead time. If a certificate of conformance or mill certificate is required, say that as well.
4. Quantities
Give two numbers:
- Quantity per order (what you will buy in each purchase order).
- Estimated annual quantity (what you expect over twelve months).
Also tell us whether you want pricing at more than one quantity. Volume changes tooling choices (see our guide on choosing a die type) as well as the piece price. If you only need a small prototype run, say so, because it may call for a different process than production.
5. Finish and coating
Specify plating, painting, powder coating, anodizing, passivation or other treatment, and the specification or color you need. Say whether the finish is cosmetic or functional, and which surfaces matter. If the part needs masking, say where.
6. Critical dimensions and quality requirements
Mark the dimensions that are critical to fit or function, so the inspection effort goes where it matters. Tell us:
- Whether you need a first-article or sample measurement report.
- What inspection records you expect with each shipment.
- Any visual standards, for example limits on scratches or burrs on cosmetic faces.
- Any special requirements such as traceability or lot marking.
ALG can inspect on site at the workshop on your behalf, so tell us what you want checked.
7. Packing
Describe how the parts should be packed. Include protective requirements (interleaving, trays), carton or pallet preferences, labeling, quantity per box, and any maximum box weight your receiving site needs. Packing affects cost and part condition, so it belongs in the quote.
8. Destination and Incoterm
Tell us the delivery country and city. Our standard terms are FOB Vietnam port, priced in USD. If you need a different arrangement, say so in the RFQ and we will discuss it. Mention whether you have your own freight forwarder.
9. Target dates
Give the date you need parts in hand, and any earlier milestone such as sample approval. We will tell you honestly if the dates are not realistic and what could be adjusted. Please also say if the tooling schedule or the production schedule is more urgent.
10. Other helpful information
- Is this a new part, or has it been made elsewhere before? If it has, tell us what problems came up.
- Do you supply any components or material yourself?
- Do you need NDA coverage first? We are glad to sign one before you send drawings.
- Who is the technical contact for questions about the drawing?
A quick pre-send check
- Drawing and STEP match, with the same revision.
- Material, thickness and finish are all stated.
- Both order quantity and annual quantity are given.
- Packing, destination and target date are included.
Send your RFQ
When your package is ready, submit it at alg-sourcing.com/rfq. If something is still unknown, send it anyway and list the open questions. We will come back to you with what we need.