The basis of a tooling quotation is almost always the 3D model and the 2D drawing. Even at the quotation stage, we aim to consider and evaluate multiple aspects, such as part manufacturability, drawing and other specifications, material type, annual volumes, and warranty requirements.

During the manufacturability assessment of the product, we examine, among other things, whether there are any undercuts and how they can be resolved, whether the product needs to be redesigned, and how the ejection and shooting of the part can be resolved. An important consideration is that, if the drawing is already available, we examine whether the tolerances are acceptable. A tolerance that is too tight or unjustified immediately increases the cost. The surface quality required for the plastic can also significantly affect the price. A fiber-drawn surface requirement, a surface with a special structure, or, for example, a requirement for high-gloss polishing can be classified in a different price category. The type of plastic raw material can determine the raw materials of the tool (outside the warranty conditions), as well as the necessary heat or surface treatment, which are also important criteria in terms of price.

Another major cost factor is the expected annual production volume or the required warranty conditions. A tool designed for hundreds of thousands or millions of cycles requires a completely different tooling concept compared to a low-volume application. This affects cavity count, tooling quality, and ultimately the price. Extended warranty requirements also increase costs. Closely related to this is the decision-based on volume and material requirements-whether a hot runner system is required or whether a cold runner system is sufficient, which again has a significant impact on tooling cost.

From a tool design perspective, it is important to determine in advance whether any sensors are required in the tool, or whether a specific brand or type of heating system is specified, as their prices can vary significantly depending on the brand, and it is worth taking these into account when submitting a quote.

In addition to the above, the required lead time is also a critical factor. If the project is urgent and a shortened delivery time is required, this may result in increased costs. Deviations from standard payment terms can also lead to either favorable or unfavorable price adjustments.

Taking all these factors into account, an RFQ is far more than a purely administrative step-it marks the beginning of a technical dialogue in which key decisions are made that significantly influence the future of the product. This is where development concepts meet manufacturing realities: design, tooling concept, manufacturability, costs, and quality requirements are all discussed in parallel.

We collect all important information in our quote to ensure transparency of the project. The list below illustrates the data included in the header, which we usually take into account when preparing an accurate quote:

For administrative reasons:

• Item

• Part No./Name

• Picture

For technical reasons:

• Part size (mm)

• Cavity No.

• Material

• Runner type

• Estimate runner weight (g)

• Tooling Requirements

• Cavity&Core Steel

• A & B Plate Steel

• Mold Base Steel

• Mold Size (mm)

• Mold Weight (kg)

• Est.Machine Size (T)

• Estimated Design Time

• Estimated cycle-time

• Lead time

• Finish surface

• Tool Life Time

In a well-managed RFQ process, we do not merely provide pricing, but also interpret the technical content, identify potential risks, and, where necessary, propose design optimizations. Our goal is to minimize later changes, misunderstandings, and additional costs as early as this initial phase.

Our technically experienced team processes RFQs within 48 hours, providing well-considered quotations supported by solid technical content rather than generic, template-based responses. We believe that a well-founded start leads to more stable long-term cooperation, more predictable production, and ultimately more successful projects.