Direct answer: A complete RFQ does not need a long email. It needs the drawing, material grade, quantity, finish, critical tolerances, required documentation and any customer-specific requirement revision. The checklists below help you send the right information the first time and reduce quotation loops.
1. Drawing and RFQ checklist
- Controlled 2D drawing and 3D model, same revision
- Material grade, temper and thickness
- Annual volume and first-batch quantity
- Critical dimensions, datums and functional requirements
- Surface finish, plating, heat treatment and masking areas
- Required documentation: PPAP, IMDS, RoHS, REACH, material certificate
- Packaging, shipping and compliance targets
- Existing samples or assembly context if available
2. IMDS / material compliance checklist
Use the full 15-step IMDS compliance checklist before submission. The highest-risk points for stamped and deep-drawn metal parts are missing plating layers, wrong component/material structure, incorrect weight, and using an outdated customer requirement revision.
3. Supplier audit checklist
- Quality system evidence: ISO 9001:2015 and any IATF 16949 practices
- Process route: tooling, stamping, deep drawing, machining, plating, heat treatment
- Inspection equipment and measurement methods
- Material traceability and supplier data records
- Sample and PPAP process
- IMDS / REACH / RoHS support process
- Tooling maintenance and change control
- Export, logistics and payment responsibility
For the supplier-selection logic behind this list, see how to evaluate a metal stamping supplier in China. For Balford's specific quality and compliance posture, see quality and certifications.
Download / use
These checklists are intended to be copied into your RFQ or supplier questionnaire. If you prefer a project-specific review, send your drawing and requirements through contact.