Buyers often lose two weeks because an RFQ arrives without key information. The supplier replies with questions, the buyer answers, and the cycle repeats. This checklist ends that loop. Send all nine items below, and a qualified foundry can quote within 24 to 48 hours.
1. A 2D drawing with tolerances
Your drawing must show dimensions, tolerances and the datum system. A PDF or a photo of a print is not enough if it hides tolerances. State which surfaces are critical and which are free tolerances. As a result, the foundry prices machining time accurately instead of adding a safety margin.
2. A 3D model when available
STEP or IGS files let engineers measure wall thickness and draft in minutes. Moreover, 3D data prevents mistakes when the 2D print is old. If you only have a sample, say so. Reputable foundries can reverse engineer it with a CMM scan.
3. Material specification, not just a name
“Stainless steel” is not a specification. Write the full grade, such as CF8M, 17-4PH H1025 or ASTM A536 65-45-12. In addition, state the required heat treatment condition. Our valve and pipe casting range shows how we present material and condition on every part page.
4. Annual volume and order size
Price per piece depends strongly on batch size. Therefore, state annual usage, order quantity and expected release pattern. A part bought 50 pieces per year and 500 pieces per quarter will get two very different quotations.
5. Application and service conditions
One short paragraph about the working environment helps the foundry confirm your material choice. Mention media, temperature, pressure and load. For example, a pressure relief valve bonnet needs different verification than a static bracket.
6. Surface treatment requirements
List plating, painting, passivation or polishing needs up front. Surface treatment adds real cost, so hiding it only moves the surprise to the invoice.
7. Documentation requirements
State which certificates you need: EN 10204 3.1, dimensional reports, PPAP files or radiography. Documentation takes engineering hours, so buyers who request it openly get cleaner prices. Our material certification guide explains what each document contains.
8. Packaging and delivery terms
Tell the supplier the destination port and your Incoterms preference. Furthermore, mention any packaging standard, such as ISPM 15 crates or VCI bags. Sea freight damage is preventable when packaging is planned before quoting.
9. Your target price, when you have one
Sharing a target feels risky to some buyers. However, it saves everyone time when the target is far from feasible. A serious foundry will either match it or explain the gap honestly.
Frequently asked questions
How fast should a casting RFQ be quoted?
A complete RFQ gets a reply in 24 to 48 hours. An incomplete one can drift for two weeks.
Can I quote from a sample alone?
Yes. Send the sample plus material guesses and volume. The foundry will scan it and confirm feasibility before tooling.
Ready to test this checklist? Send your drawings through our casting inquiry page, and our engineers will return a feasibility review with a firm quotation.