An accurate quote for a custom CNC machined bracket starts with a clear definition of the part. A photograph can explain the general shape, but the supplier also needs the drawing revision, material grade, quantity, finish and acceptance requirements. Use this checklist to prepare an inquiry that makes competing quotations easier to compare.
This guide accompanies VANTECH’s custom CNC machined brackets and mounts. It focuses on the information to provide before ordering, rather than prescribing tolerances for your design.
1. Send a consistent drawing and model package
Provide a dimensioned 2D drawing, preferably as a readable PDF, together with a 3D model if available. Identify the part number, drawing revision and units. The drawing should communicate requirements that may not be obvious from the model, including threads, tolerances, finish and inspection notes.
Check that the model and drawing describe the same revision. If they conflict, resolve the difference before production and state which document governs each requirement. Label left-hand and right-hand versions separately, with a quantity for each.
2. Identify the faces and holes that control assembly
Show how the bracket meets its mating components. Identify the mounting faces and drawing datums, then specify the hole pattern and the required relationship between the faces. An assembly view can help explain which features locate the bracket and which only provide fastening clearance.
- State hole diameters and whether holes are through, blind, threaded, counterbored or countersunk.
- For threaded holes, specify the thread designation and required usable thread depth.
- For slots, define width, length, location and orientation. Clarify whether the stated length is the overall slot length.
- Identify locating bores and mating-part fit requirements separately from clearance holes.
A real bracket example: what to clarify
The compact angle bracket shown in our component example has elongated openings on one face and a circular hole pattern on the adjoining face. For a similar part, a useful drawing would identify the mounting datum, the hole positions, the slot dimensions and the required relationship between those two faces.
The photograph does not establish dimensions or inspection results. If the slots provide adjustment, explain the required travel and fastener clearance. If the bracket supports a load, its structural requirements must come from the responsible design team.
3. Distinguish critical tolerances from general dimensions
Mark the dimensions and geometric requirements that control fit or alignment. Specify the applicable general tolerance requirements for the remaining dimensions instead of leaving them ambiguous. Do not copy a supplier’s advertised tolerance into every drawing callout without considering the function of the part.
Where flatness, perpendicularity or hole position matters, define the requirement on the drawing with the relevant references. Ask the supplier to review feasibility and inspection before accepting the order. A quote should reflect the specified requirements, not an assumed level of precision.
4. Specify material, finish and protected surfaces
Name the required material grade, rather than only writing “metal” or “aluminum.” Include any material documentation requirements. If substitutions are acceptable, request a separately identified alternative for approval.
Describe the required surface treatment and appearance. Identify cosmetic faces, edge-break requirements and surfaces or threads that must remain free of coating. State whether critical dimensions apply before or after finishing so that the quotation and inspection plan address the same finished part.
5. Give quantities, variants and delivery information
State the quantity for each part number and revision. If you want prices for several order quantities, list them separately. Distinguish a sample order from a possible future production order; a forecast is not the same as a committed quantity.
Provide the delivery destination and required date. Ask the supplier to state the proposed lead time, what starts that lead time, and whether finishing, inspection, packing and shipping are included. This makes the scope of each quotation clearer.
6. Agree on inspection and documentation
Identify the features that need inspection records and any required material or finish documentation before quotation. If you need a first-article report or a particular report format, include that requirement with the drawing. Agree on acceptance criteria and inspection methods for critical features before production.
VANTECH reviews bracket inquiries against the supplied drawings and project requirements. Specific tolerances, inspection arrangements and delivery commitments need to be agreed for the individual order.
Copy this bracket RFQ checklist
- Part number and drawing revision:
- 2D drawing and matching 3D model, if available:
- Units and required material grade:
- Quantity for each part or variant:
- Critical faces, hole positions, slots, fits and tolerances:
- Surface treatment, cosmetic faces and masking requirements:
- Inspection reports and material documentation required:
- Required delivery date and destination:
- Questions or alternatives to quote separately:
Suggested email subject: RFQ — Custom CNC Bracket — [Part Number / Revision] — [Quantity]
Please quote the attached bracket to the stated drawing revision. Confirm the material, finish, inspection scope, lead time and any exclusions. Please identify any proposed deviation or alternative separately for approval before production.
For real examples, see our slotted fixture bracket, slotted adjustment bar and the mounting and adapter plates we machine.
Send your bracket drawing for review
Explore our bracket and mount examples or machining capabilities, then request a quote with your drawing package. You can also email info@vantechcncproducts.com. Include the checklist above so the project requirements can be reviewed together.