Need a customized thermoformed product?
Fill out the form on our request a quote page to get started. One way to speed up the quote process for custom thermoformed products is to fill out the form with as much information as possible. Doing so ensures that you receive the most accurate quote for your specific application.
In order to provide you with the most accurate quote, our team depends on the following information:
Part Information
What is the part name or number?
This helps in identifying the product both internally and on our formal quote to you.
What is the end use of this part?
Knowing where this part ends up aids in the material selection and tooling orientation. For example, if the part is used outdoors, our team may suggest a material with a UV rating to prevent discoloration.
Design Information
Are there CAD files or 2D prints available?
When starting the quote process, it’s beneficial to have a CAD file or a 2D print to refer to. CAD files allow us to rotate the part and inspect all dimensions, sometimes finding features that are not conducive to thermoforming. 2D prints not only give dimensional information but can provide material specifications, hole locations and tolerances, among other information.
What are the part dimensions?
If you do not have a CAD file or 2D print, part dimensions are essential. This information helps determine tooling and material sizes, and even on which machine this part will be produced. Pictures of the parts are also helpful.
Are there critical dimensions?
Sometimes critical dimensions are not listed on the 2D prints. If there is a design feature or critical component to your part, such as hole locations, we need to know so this can be considered when making tooling and material decisions.
Quantities
What is the purchase or order quantity for this product?
The number of parts to be produced will affect the tooling choice and the machine selected to produce these items. If we are aware the product lifecycle is five years or more, we may suggest aluminum tooling for its longevity. Conversely, if you only require a prototype run or small annual quantities, we are more inclined to use tooling constructed for limited production.
Material Requirements
What type of material do you require?
In many instances, you already have a material in mind when requesting a quote. We take the material specifications back to our supplier to obtain pricing and lead times. If you’re unsure of the best material to use, we can guide you in the right direction based on the application.
What material thickness do you require?
The material thickness can affect part performance. It’s helpful to know where you want the part to be the thickest or most rigid. This helps determine starting gauge as well as tool orientation.
What color?
Primary colors are generally black and white. Custom colors can be created by our suppliers based on Pantone colors or sample swatches provided by you. These custom colors tend to be more expensive, so having this information from the start ensures we give you accurate piece pricing.
What texture?
There are many textures to choose from depending on the material type and supplier. It is helpful to know if both sides of the sheet must be smooth, or if one side requires a certain texture.
Are there special requirements?
Flame ratings, UV and weather resistance and RoHS (Resistance of Hazardous Substances) compliance are just a few of the requirements we need to be aware of when quoting a project. These requirements may determine from which supplier we source material and could affect cost.
Pricing
Is there a price point you’re trying to reach?
If the customer has a price point in mind, it can act as a guideline when quoting a project. It can also help us quickly determine if we are unable to meet the customer’s expectations. A customer may have a price in mind but is not aware of the minimum quantity required for production in order to meet that price point.
Do you have a budget you need to stay within?
Many times, we publish quotes that must obtain final approval from someone other than you in order to move forward. This could be from the head of your purchasing department, or even your end user. Letting us know this information can aid in selecting appropriate tooling and materials for the project to ensure our quote is within your budget, if possible.
Timing
When do you require samples?
Depending on the type of tooling, the design-to-sample phase can take 6-8 weeks. If you require samples in a few days, we may be unable to offer a quote. When we are aware of your timeline, we can work with you to agree on a time period that meets your needs and is also feasible for us.
When do you require production?This information is helpful in scheduling production upon sample approval. We advise you of general lead times from receipt of purchase orders and can use this information to prepare for upcoming orders.
Tooling
Do you have existing tooling?
Some customers have tooling they can provide, whether it be from a previous supplier or a prototype pattern they have crafted. If there is existing tooling, we need to know:
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What type of tooling?: Aluminum, wood, renwood, ceramic and fiberglass are common types.
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Is it temperature controlled?: This affects how quickly parts can be produced and on what machine.
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How many cavities?: Some tools can make one part at a time, while others can make multiple.
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What size is the tool?: This will help to determine sheet size and production machinery.
Your ability to provide this information greatly impacts the speed at which your quote request is completed and published. As always, Joslyn Manufacturing will work with you as a guide when this information is unknown.
Our team will get to the bottom of what you need by setting up procedures up front so you can accomplish your goals and overcome your challenges on the job. Have additional questions? Please contact us.
