How to Prepare RFQ for Plastic Molds: Complete Checklist

A well-prepared RFQ gets you accurate quotes faster and helps avoid misunderstandings. Here's everything you need to include.

Essential RFQ Components

1. Technical Drawings

2D Drawings Should Include:

• Overall dimensions with tolerances
• Critical dimension callouts
• Section views for wall thickness
• Surface finish specifications
• Material callout

3D Files (Preferred Formats):

• STEP (.stp, .step) - Universal
• IGES (.igs, .iges) - Wide compatibility
• Parasolid (.x_t) - Good for complex geometry
• SolidWorks (.sldprt) - Native files accepted

2. Material Specification

3. Production Requirements

Annual Volume:

• < 100,000 pcs: Lower mold investment
• 100,000 - 500,000 pcs: Standard mold
• > 500,000 pcs: Premium mold with automation

Target Cycle Time:

• Affects mold design and cooling
• Be realistic based on part size

4. Quality Requirements

Surface Finish: Tolerance Class:

• Standard: ±0.3mm
• Precision: ±0.1mm
• High precision: ±0.05mm

5. Mold Specifications

Preferred Steel:

• P20: Cost-effective
• 718H: Better polishability
• S136: Corrosion resistant

Runner System:

• Cold runner (cost-effective)
• Hot runner (less waste)
• Valve gate (best quality)

RFQ Checklist

Technical Information

• [ ] 2D drawing with dimensions
• [ ] 3D file (STEP preferred)
• [ ] Material specification
• [ ] Color requirements
• [ ] Surface finish requirement
• [ ] Critical tolerances highlighted

Production Information

• [ ] Annual volume estimate
• [ ] Target cycle time (if known)
• [ ] Injection machine specs (if available)
• [ ] Production location

Commercial Information

• [ ] Delivery timeline requirement
• [ ] Preferred payment terms
• [ ] Shipping destination
• [ ] Incoterms preference

Quality Requirements

• [ ] Inspection requirements
• [ ] Certificate requirements
• [ ] Sample quantity needed
• [ ] Any industry standards (FDA, etc.)

Sample RFQ Email Template

``` Subject: RFQ - [Product Name] Injection Mold

Dear Boxumold Team,

We are requesting a quotation for the following mold:

Product: Storage basket Material: PP Copolymer Dimensions: 400 x 300 x 150 mm Annual Volume: 200,000 pcs Surface Finish: VDI 27 textureAttached Files:

• 3D STEP file
• 2D drawing with dimensions

Requirements:

• Steel: 718H or equivalent
• Mold life: 500,000 shots minimum
• Trial samples: 50 pcs

Please provide:

• Mold quotation
• Lead time
• Payment terms

Looking forward to your response.

Best regards, [Your Name] ```

What to Expect in Response

A professional quotation should include:

• Mold price breakdown
• Steel specification
• Cavity count recommendation
• Estimated mold life
• Lead time
• Payment terms
• Trial sample quantity
• Warranty terms

Conclusion

Investing time in a thorough RFQ saves time and prevents costly misunderstandings. The more information you provide upfront, the more accurate your quotation will be.