Submitting a Successful Quote Form

One way to speed up the quote process for custom thermoformed products is to provide as much information as possible in the initial request. By doing so, less time is spent confirming details, which leaves more time to devote to providing our customers with the most accurate quotes.

Below is some of the information we depend upon in order to provide a quote:

Part Information

  • What is the part name or number?
    • This helps
  • What is the end use of this part?
    • Knowing where this part ends up aids in the material selection and tooling orientation. For instance, if the part is used outdoors, we may suggest a material with a UV rating to prevent discoloration.

Design Information

  • Are there CAD files or 2D prints available?
    • It is very helpful to have a CAD file or a 2D print to refer to when starting the quote process. 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?
    • In the event that that the customer does 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 the customer’s 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 life cycle is 5 years or more, we may suggest aluminum tooling for its longevity. Conversely, if the customer only requires 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, customers 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 the customer is unsure of the best material to use, we can guide them in the right direction, based on the application.
  • What color?
    • Basic colors are generally black and white. Custom colors can be created by our suppliers based on Pantone colors or sample swatches provided by the customer. These custom colors tend to be more expensive, so having this information from the start ensures we publish accurate piece pricing to our customer.
  • 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?
    • Depending on the type of tooling, the design to sample phase can take 6-8 weeks. If the customer requires samples in a few days, we may be unable to offer a quote. When we are aware of the customer’s timeline, we can work with them to agree on a time period that meets their needs and is also feasible for us.
  • Do you have a budget you need to stay within?
    • This information is helpful in scheduling production upon sample approval. We advise the customers of general lead times from receipt of purchase orders and can use this information to prepare for upcoming orders.

Timing

  • Do you have existing tooling?
    • Some customers have tooling they are able to provide, whether it be from a previous supplier or a prototype pattern they have crafted. If there is existing tooling, we need to know:
      • What type of tooling?
        • Aluminum, wood, renwood, ceramic and fiberglass are common types.
      • Is it temperature controlled?
        • This affects how quickly parts can be produced and on what machine.
      • How many cavities?
        • Some tools can make one part at a time, while others can make multiple.
      • What size is the tool?
        • This will help to determine sheet size and production machinery.

The customer’s ability to provide this information greatly impacts the speed at which their quote request is completed and published. As always, we will work with the customer as a guide when this information is unknown.

Related posts