FAQ
I. Quotation & Ordering
Q1: How do I get a quote? Is it free?
Yes, quotes are completely free. Please send your design drawings (PDF, STEP, IGS, DWG, or other common formats) along with the following information:
- Material grade
- Target quantity
- Surface treatment requirements
We typically provide an initial quote within 24 hours after receiving complete information.
To help us respond faster, please include:
- 3D model + 2D drawing (with units and revision numbers clearly marked)
- Material grade (or performance requirements)
- Surface finish and appearance level
- Critical dimensions and tolerances
- Target quantity and delivery address
Tip: The more complete your information, the faster and more accurate your quote will be – and it helps avoid back‑and‑forth delays.
Q2: What is your Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)?
MOQ depends on product complexity and the manufacturing process:
- CNC machining: Generally available from single pieces – ideal for prototyping.
- Sheet metal fabrication: Can start with small batches; larger volumes reduce unit cost significantly.
- Metal stamping: Recommended for high‑volume small parts. A one‑time mold investment greatly lowers per‑part cost.
We recommend a phased approach:
Prototype → Small‑batch trial → Stable mass production. This minimizes risk and optimizes cost.
II. Drawings & Confidentiality
Q3: Can you make parts based on physical samples?
Yes. For simple samples, we can take measurements and create machining drawings. However, for complex samples, we strongly recommend providing detailed drawings to ensure accuracy and avoid errors.
Suggestion: If you don’t have drawings, contact us first – we’ll evaluate the best way to proceed.
Q4: Will my design drawings be kept confidential?
Absolutely not. We take intellectual property and data security very seriously:
- We never share your designs with any third party without your explicit permission.
- If third‑party collaboration is required, we will obtain your written authorization in advance.
- We are happy to sign a Non‑Disclosure Agreement (NDA) before you send any drawings.
- For price comparisons among multiple suppliers, we can accept redacted or simplified drawings for initial evaluation – protecting your design while still allowing fair bidding.
III. Prototyping & Mass Production
Q5: Is prototyping free? How are sample costs calculated?
Prototyping is not free – there is a sample charge, and shipping costs are borne by the customer.
Please note: Each sample run involves separate design, machining, and inspection preparation. Even for identical products, sample costs may vary between batches. As a result, re‑sampling will incur new costs. To avoid unnecessary expenses, please provide complete and accurate information before we start the first sample.
Q6: What is the process from prototyping to mass production?
- Send us your drawings – we provide a free quote.
- We produce samples for your quality and fit verification.
- Once samples are approved, we proceed to mass production.
Recommendation: Define critical dimensions, tolerances, reference points, A/B surface appearance standards, and allowable defects during the sample stage. This prevents rework and delays in mass production.
IV. Quality & Delivery
Q7: How do you ensure quality in mass production?
Quality is our top priority. We maintain a multi‑layer quality assurance system:
- Raw material control: All materials meet environmental standards, and we can provide material certificates.
- Process control: Skilled workers strictly manage every production and packaging detail.
- Inspection system:
- First Article Approval (FAA) – confirming the first piece is qualified before production starts.
- In‑Process Quality Control (IPQC) – multiple inspections during production.
- Outgoing Quality Control (OQC) – final inspection before shipment.
Result: Every shipment undergoes thorough inspection to ensure it meets your specifications.
Q8: What is the lead time for mass production? Can you handle urgent orders?
Standard lead time is generally within 30 days, depending on process complexity, order quantity, material availability, surface treatment, and inspection requirements.
For urgent orders:
- We offer expedited service through priority scheduling.
- To speed things up, we suggest you:
- Identify “critical dimensions” and “must‑have appearance surfaces,” while relaxing non‑critical tolerances.
- Choose commonly available materials and standard finishing processes.
- Provide assembly‑critical dimensions upfront to minimize back‑and‑forth.
Our goal: Meet your delivery needs while maintaining quality.
Q9: Can I change requirements after an order is placed?
Yes, but changes may affect lead time and cost – depending on which stage the order is in:
| Stage | Impact Level |
|---|---|
| Material preparation | Minor |
| Machining / Post‑processing | Moderate |
| Inspection / Shipping | Significant |
For any change, please provide:
- Old and new revision numbers with a clear description of differences (dimensions, material, finish, quantity).
- Your priority preference – delivery‑first or cost‑first – so we can adjust accordingly.
V. Materials & Standards
Q10: Can you provide material certificates in English?
Yes. We can provide an English‑language Mill Certificate listing chemical composition and mechanical properties. Common equivalents:
| Chinese Grade | ASTM Equivalent |
|---|---|
| 304 Stainless Steel | ASTM 304 |
| 316 Stainless Steel | ASTM 316L |
This is the basic documentation required for exported metal parts and meets most destination port customs requirements.
Q11: Can you supply to ASTM or EN standards?
Yes. Most domestic stainless steel mills produce materials that already meet ASTM or EN standards. For example:
- 304 grade contains Ni 8%–10.5% and Cr 18%–20%, fully compliant with ASTM A276 Type 304.
Our practice: If you have special standard requirements, please let us know in advance. We will verify compliance before accepting the order – ensuring everything is correct from the start.
Q12: What materials and surface finishes do you support?
Common materials:
- Aluminum alloys: 6061, 5052, etc.
- Stainless steels: SUS201, SUS304, SS316, etc.
- Carbon steels: Q235, SPCC, SGCC, etc.
- Copper alloys: brass, red copper, etc.
Surface finishes:
- Anodizing, powder coating, electroplating
- Brushing, polishing, sandblasting
- Galvanizing, hot‑dip galvanizing
If you require special materials or finishes not listed here, just ask – we’ll evaluate feasibility.
VI. Payment & Logistics
Q13: What are your payment terms?
We generally accept:
- T/T (Telegraphic Transfer): For first‑time cooperation, we typically require a 50% deposit, with the balance paid before shipment.
- L/C (Letter of Credit): Available for long‑term partners upon negotiation.
For established customers, we are open to flexible payment arrangements – just let us know.
Q14: Can you do export packaging? Can you arrange third‑party inspection?
Export packaging: Yes. We typically use moisture‑proof packaging + wooden pallets that meet ISPM 15 standards, ensuring smooth customs clearance at the destination port.
Third‑party inspection: Yes. We can arrange inspections by SGS, BV, Intertek, or other recognized agencies. Please inform us in advance, and we will make the necessary arrangements.
Q15: Are shipping costs included in the quote?
Our quotes are default EXW (Ex Works), meaning shipping costs are not included:
| Incoterm | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| EXW (Ex Works) | You arrange pickup; all export procedures and shipping costs are on your side. |
| FOB (Free on Board – named port) | We handle inland transport from our factory to the Chinese port, customs clearance, and loading – you bear ocean freight and insurance. |
Other Incoterms (e.g., CIF, DDP) are negotiable – we can provide a corresponding quote upon request.
Q16: How can I track my order progress?
We will provide you with a detailed production schedule and send regular progress reports containing digital photos and videos.
You can monitor your order status in real time – even without visiting our factory. We value transparency and want you to feel fully informed at every stage.