When developing a new product, getting an accurate manufacturing quote can make or break your budget and timeline. Whether you’re creating a prototype or a full production batch, understanding what details to provide can help ensure precision, cost transparency, and fast turnaround.
At BOONA Prototypes, engineers specialize in CNC machining, 3D printing, and injection molding, offering instant quotes with full engineering support. Here’s how you can get the most accurate quote for your custom parts.
I. Provide Complete Design Files
Use standard file formats such as STEP, IGES, or STL. Include detailed 2D drawings with dimensions, tolerances, and annotations for holes, threads, and finishes.
| Recommended File Formats | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| STEP (.stp) | 3D CAD neutral format | SolidWorks, CATIA |
| IGES (.igs) | Exchange surface & wireframe data | AutoCAD |
| STL (.stl) | Ideal for 3D printing | SLA / SLS models |
✅ Visit CNC Machining Service to learn how BOONA converts design files into precision parts.
II. Specify Material Type and Grade
Material selection significantly affects cost and machinability. For instance, Aluminum 6061-T6 is economical for prototypes, while Titanium suits aerospace applications.
| Material | Typical Tolerance | Surface Finish (Ra) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum 6061 | ±0.05 mm | 3.2 µm | Lightweight, corrosion-resistant |
| Stainless Steel 304 | ±0.02 mm | 1.6 µm | Strong, durable |
| PEEK | ±0.05 mm | 0.8 µm | High heat & chemical resistance |
🔗 Explore Material List for all available metals and plastics.
III. Define Critical Tolerances
Not all dimensions require the same precision. Identify key tolerances early to balance performance and cost.
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Standard tolerance: ±0.1 mm
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Precision machining: ±0.01 mm
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Optical or mating parts: ±0.005 mm
📏 Precision CNC Machining at BOONA achieves tight tolerances with ISO 9001-certified inspection.
IV. Clarify Quantities and Production Goals
Whether you need a single prototype or mass production, quote accuracy depends on the batch size and production method.
| Order Type | Quantity | Ideal Process | Lead Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prototype | 1–10 pcs | CNC / SLA | 2–5 days |
| Low-volume | 50–500 pcs | CNC / Vacuum casting | 5–10 days |
| High-volume | 1000+ pcs | Injection molding | 10–20 days |
📦 Learn about Low-Volume Manufacturing and High-Volume Production.
V. Include Finishing and Post-Processing Details
Surface finishing enhances appearance and function. Specify color, coating, or polish level for accurate cost evaluation.
| Finish Type | Typical Thickness | Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Anodizing | 5–25 µm | Aluminum parts |
| Powder coating | 60–100 µm | Decorative protection |
| Passivation | — | Stainless steel corrosion resistance |
🎨 Visit Surface Finishing Options to view available treatments.
VI. Request Quality Control Documentation
Accurate quotes must include inspection requirements. BOONA provides comprehensive reports:
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CMM dimensional reports
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Hardness inspection
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Salt spray testing
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First Article Inspection (FAI)
📄 See Quality Control for detailed inspection capabilities.
VII. Review Lead Times and Logistics
Fast delivery often costs more. Communicate your target delivery date early—BOONA completes CNC prototypes within 3–5 days and injection-molded parts within 10–20 days.
✈️ Explore Outsourcing Services to consolidate logistics and save time.
VIII. Compare Quotes Fairly
When evaluating multiple suppliers, ensure the comparison includes:
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Same material and grade
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Equal tolerances
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Identical finishing and inspection scope
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Lead time and shipping conditions
Always request a cost breakdown for material, machining, finishing, and inspection.
Partner with the Right Manufacturer
An accurate quote starts with transparent communication. With 1-on-1 engineering support and confidential file handling, BOONA Prototypes simplifies the entire quoting process—from prototype to production.
Key Takeaways
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Provide detailed CAD files and tolerances.
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Specify material, finish, and inspection requirements.
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Clarify quantity and delivery goals.
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Choose a reliable manufacturer with certified QA systems.
🚀 Ready to get your accurate quote today? Upload your design files at BOONA Prototypes Get a Quote and receive a response within 2 hours.
FAQs
1. What information do I need to provide to get an accurate quote?
You should include detailed 3D CAD files (STEP, IGES, STL), 2D drawings, material specifications, tolerances, surface finish requirements, and the desired quantity. The more details you share, the more accurate your quote will be.
2. How long does it take to receive a quote from Boona Prototypes?
At Boona Prototypes, most quotes are delivered within 2 hours after file submission, depending on part complexity and documentation completeness.
3. What file formats are accepted for quotations?
Boona accepts STEP (.stp), IGES (.igs), STL (.stl), and DWG (.dwg) files. For best accuracy, include dimensional drawings in PDF format to highlight tolerances and special notes.
4. How do tolerances affect the cost of custom parts?
Tighter tolerances require more precise machining and additional inspection steps, increasing the cost. For example, reducing tolerance from ±0.1 mm to ±0.01 mm can raise costs by 15–30%.
5. Can Boona Prototypes help if I don’t know which material to use?
Yes. Their engineering team provides material selection guidance based on your application — whether you need lightweight aluminum, strong stainless steel, or heat-resistant PEEK. Learn more on their Material List page.
6. Are prototypes and production parts quoted differently?
Yes. Prototype quotes focus on speed and one-off manufacturing, while production quotes include setup costs, tooling, and volume discounts. Visit Low-Volume Manufacturing for details.
7. What inspection or quality reports are included in the quote?
Every quote from Boona can include CMM inspection, FAI reports, surface roughness checks, and material certifications if requested. See Quality Control for more information.
8. Does surface finishing affect the price?
Yes. Each surface finish — anodizing, powder coating, or polishing — adds process time and material cost. Specify your required finish early for an accurate estimate. Check available options under Surface Finishing.
9. What if I make a design change after submitting for a quote?
Minor changes can usually be updated quickly. However, significant geometry or material modifications may require a new quote. Always communicate revisions through your assigned engineer for speed and accuracy.
10. Can Boona ship my parts internationally?
Yes. Boona provides global shipping with tracked logistics and export documentation. Lead times vary by destination, but most small-batch orders reach customers within 5–10 business days.
