A useful die casting RFQ gives the supplier enough information to evaluate feasibility, tooling, secondary operations, quality control, and delivery on the same basis. Otherwise, a low initial number may hide later tooling changes, machining charges, testing costs, or delays.
Use this die casting RFQ checklist to request a custom aluminum die casting quote. Separate confirmed requirements from open questions.
What Information Should a Die Casting RFQ Include?
For an accurate aluminum die casting quotation, send your strongest technical package. A 3D CAD model defines geometry; a controlled 2D drawing defines dimensions, datums, tolerances, threads, and inspection criteria. Useful formats include STEP, STP, IGES, X_T, DWG, and PDF.
| RFQ item | What to provide | Why it affects the quote |
|---|---|---|
| Technical files | 3D model, 2D drawing, sample, or marked image | Defines geometry and acceptance |
| Revision | Drawing number, revision, date, and status | Prevents use of an obsolete design |
| Part function | Application, load, temperature, environment | Guides alloy and process review |
| Material | Alloy/standard, or required performance if open | Affects casting and finishing |
| Quantity | Prototype, annual volume, program life | Influences cavities, die life, and unit economics |
| Critical dimensions | CTQs, datums, GD&T, inspection method | Separates cast and machined tolerances |
| CNC machining | Bores, threads, sealing faces, flats, datums | Affects fixtures, cycle time, and inspection |
| Surface finish | Cosmetic zones, coating, color, masking | Defines preparation and appearance control |
| Quality scope | CMM report, certificate, leak test, FAI, or PPAP | Adds measurement and documentation |
| Delivery scope | Finished condition, packing, destination, Incoterm, date | Defines the quote boundary |
Mark critical and machined areas on the drawing. “Tight tolerance” and “good appearance” are not measurable die casting specifications. Identify the feature, limit, inspection method, and visible surface. Label undecided features as open so an assumption is not mistaken for an approved requirement.
What If Your Drawing or Material Is Not Final?
An early request for quotation for die casting can begin with a 3D model, 2D concept, sample, dimensioned photographs, or functional description. State what may change and what the supplier should evaluate.
If the alloy is open, provide operating temperature, strength and weight targets, corrosion exposure, thermal or electrical needs, plus welding, coating, or sealing requirements. This is more useful than requesting the “best alloy.”
For a supplier-change project, disclose the problem: porosity near a seal, leakage after machining, unstable flatness, thread failure, coating damage, assembly interference, or late delivery. Preliminary data can support feasibility and budget guidance, but final tooling release normally requires controlled drawings and agreed die casting requirements. Our die casting DFM checklist explains what to resolve before tooling.
How RFQ Details Affect Tooling and Part Price
Tooling cost and part price depend on scope. Annual and lifetime volume influence cavity count, tool steel, die life, and capacity. Undercuts increase mold complexity. Tight machined dimensions add allowance, fixtures, cutting time, and inspection. Cosmetic surfaces affect gates, handling, finishing, and rejection criteria.
Leak-tight parts may require extra process control and testing. FAI, PPAP, dimensional reports, traceability, labeling, and protective trays also add work. An urgent launch may require reserved capacity or parallel preparation.
A practical die casting quote should therefore separate:
- Tooling and fixtures
- Casting unit price and quoted quantity
- CNC machining
- Surface finishing and masking
- Inspection, testing, and documentation
- Packaging and shipping terms
For more context, review our mold-making capability and the typical aluminum die casting lead time from DFM through mass production.
How to Compare Die Casting Quotations on the Same Basis
Send every supplier the same revision, volume, quality scope, and delivery condition. Review assumptions and exclusions instead of comparing only the lowest unit price.
Confirm whether tooling, trimming dies, machining fixtures, samples, finishing, reports, packaging, and freight are included. Check quantity and price breaks. Ask when lead time begins and whether it ends at T1, approved samples, or production shipment. Confirm Incoterm, taxes, validity, payment milestones, and responsibility for design changes.
Quotations are comparable only when they cover the same revision and finished-part condition. A transparent quotation may look higher than an incomplete one but carry less risk of later charges and disruption.
Send Your Die Casting RFQ to Yongzhu
If drawings are ready, send 2D and 3D files with material, quantity, critical features, finishing, inspection, and delivery requirements. Yongzhu can review the casting, tooling, machining, and finishing scope before quoting.
If the design is developing, describe the application and open questions through our contact form. We can identify inputs needed for the next review. NDA review is available before detailed drawings are shared.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sending a die casting RFQ a commitment to place an order?
No. It requests technical and commercial evaluation. Tooling or production begins only after the quotation and order terms are approved.
Can Yongzhu sign an NDA before I send my drawings?
Yes. Request an NDA review before sending confidential geometry or product information.
Should tooling ownership be stated before quotation?
Yes. Clarify who owns the die, what payment covers, and the terms for storage, maintenance, modification, and possible transfer.
Can an RFQ include an existing or transferred die casting mold?
Yes. Provide tool drawings, age, shot history, maintenance records, location, samples, and known defects when available. Inspection is required before production suitability can be confirmed.
How long is a die casting quotation valid?
It depends on the supplier and market. Check the stated period because alloy, tool steel, finishing, freight, or exchange-rate changes may require an update.
