Aluminum Casting RFQ Checklist for Buyer Packages

RFQ routing

Start from the buyer's sourcing decision

A useful checklist does more than collect files. It routes the project into the right review path so quote assumptions are comparable before tooling, CNC machining, inspection records, freight, or supplier approval work begins.

Quote package

The four fields that make a casting quote comparable

Drawing Package

Drawing files and revision notes

The most useful RFQ package starts with a 2D drawing and a 3D model. PDF format works well for 2D drawings. STEP or IGES files are preferred for 3D geometry. If only a 2D drawing is available, that is still a workable starting point for a process discussion.

Include the drawing revision number and date. If the drawing is marked preliminary or for-review, note it clearly. Suppliers need to know whether the geometry and tolerances are locked or still subject to change before tooling decisions are made.

Highlight any critical dimensions, GD&T callouts, sealing surfaces, datum scheme, and thread or port features. These directly affect tooling design, secondary operations setup, and quality review planning. The more clearly these are marked on the drawing, the less back-and-forth is needed before quoting.

Part Context

Part function and operating context

A brief description of what the part does and where it fits in the assembly helps the supplier ask better questions and flag risks early. A housing that carries fluid under operating load has different review priorities than a structural bracket or enclosure casting.

If the part replaces an existing design from another supplier, note whether the interface dimensions are fixed or whether the new supplier has design freedom. Second-source and replacement projects often benefit from sharing a sample or reference casting alongside the drawing package.

Volume and Project Stage

Target quantity range and project stage

Annual volume and project stage are two of the most useful pieces of context in an RFQ. They affect process route selection, tooling type, and pricing structure. A range is enough — an exact forecast is not required.

• →Prototype or first-article: state that tooling budget is part of the discussion and early samples are the priority.
• →Annual production: include a low/mid/high range (e.g., 500–2,000 pieces per year) so the supplier can select a tooling and cycle approach that fits the volume.
• →Launch-stage or ramp program: describe the timeline and whether supplier qualification or first-article approval is required before production release.

Material Notes

Material preference or open material review

If the alloy is fixed by engineering requirement, state it in the RFQ message. If the alloy is open for discussion, describe the mechanical requirements instead — tensile strength range, elongation requirement, or hardness target — so the supplier can suggest a suitable option with process context.

Heat treatment requirement should also be noted. T5 and T6 heat treatment changes the mechanical outcome and affects cycle time. If heat treatment is required for the application, include it in the RFQ scope even if the exact specification is not yet finalized.

Surface and Assembly

Surface, assembly, and packaging notes

Surface finish requirements, coating or treatment scope, and packaging needs are often left out of the first RFQ message and added later. Including them upfront avoids a secondary quote round after tooling discussions have started.

For export shipments, note whether the parts need individual part protection, bulk packing, or export crating. Incoterm preference (FOB Ningbo, CIF destination, or other) can also be noted at this stage so freight and documentation assumptions are visible from the start.

Optional but Helpful

Existing part photos or samples when available

Photos of existing parts, competitor samples, or reference castings are useful when the drawing does not fully communicate the surface quality expectation or geometry intent. If you have a sample that represents the acceptable standard, note that in the RFQ message and include photos if possible.

Contact and Response

Contact information and preferred response path

Include a direct contact name and email for the person handling the sourcing decision. Specify whether you want a quote response, a process recommendation, a DFM review, or a combination. Setting this expectation at the start reduces the number of clarification rounds before the supplier can deliver a useful response.