Request a Quote for Custom Metal Parts
Start your custom metal parts quote by sharing the details our estimating team needs to understand the part, process path, timing, and fit. Active Manufacturing reviews RFQs for metal prototypes, short-run and low-volume production, bridge production, stamping and forming, laser cutting, wire EDM, CNC milling, assemblies, and related inspection needs.
Send your RFQ with drawings, material, quantity, and timing.
The more complete your request is, the more efficiently Active can evaluate manufacturability, identify potential risks, and respond with next steps. If you are early in development, that is okay. Many projects begin with an incomplete print, a CAD model, a sample, or a requirement that still needs process input. Tell us what you know, what is flexible, and what must be held exactly.
For help preparing files before you submit, review our materials and file format guidance. If you have a general question before sending a project, use the contact page.
Project Details to Include
The strongest RFQs include enough information for our team to evaluate manufacturability, lead time, material fit, inspection needs, and any outside or secondary operations. Please include:
Your name, company, email, and phone number
Part name, drawing number, revision level, or project reference
Material grade and thickness, if known
Quantity for prototype, first release, bridge build, or recurring production
Critical tolerances, small features, forming requirements, or cosmetic concerns
Finish, heat treat, plating, passivation, welding, hardware, or assembly requirements
Target need date, launch timing, or production schedule
Industry or application, especially if quality or compliance requirements apply
Any known budget, incumbent supplier issue, or manufacturing challenge
If your print is not final, note which dimensions or materials are still under review. If you need multiple quantities quoted, list each quantity clearly so Active can compare prototype, short-run, and low-volume options.
Processes You Can Quote
Use this page for a metal prototype quote, short-run metal manufacturing quote, laser cutting quote, metal stamping quote, wire EDM quote, CNC prototype quote, or low-volume metal parts quote. If you are not sure which process fits, describe the end requirement and upload the best available drawing or model.
Active can also review projects that may require a combined process path, such as laser-cut blanks with forming, machined details with EDM features, welded assemblies, or tooling and fixture support. For broader capability background, see custom metal prototyping, short-run metal production, or quality, certifications, and compliance.
File Formats and Controlled Files
Active most often works from STEP, IGES, and PDF files. Other file formats may be reviewed case by case. The ordinary public form upload limit is 50 MB.
Please make the revision level clear and avoid sending conflicting versions without notes. If your package includes both a 3D model and a 2D drawing, identify which document controls tolerances, material, finish, and inspection requirements.
Do not upload ITAR, CUI, export-controlled, or otherwise controlled files through the standard public form. Instead, note that secure transfer is required. Active will coordinate appropriate portal or folder access and any NDA requirements before controlled files are exchanged.
What Happens After You Submit
Your RFQ routes through Active's sales and estimating process for review. The team may contact you for missing information, alternate material options, tolerance clarification, secondary operation details, or a more complete release plan.
During review, Active considers the likely manufacturing path, available equipment, material sourcing, inspection approach, and whether the project is a good match for prototype, bridge, short-run, or low-volume production support. Some projects can be quoted from the first package. Others may need a short technical conversation before pricing is accurate.
Normal production lead time is typically about 3 to 4 weeks. Expedited work is reviewed case by case based on project fit, material availability, process requirements, inspection scope, and current scheduling. If your date is urgent, include the date in the first message and explain what is driving the deadline.
RFQ Questions
What information should I include with an RFQ?
Include contact information, material, quantity, CAD or drawing files, critical tolerances, finish requirements, and your target date. Add revision levels, compliance notes, and secondary operation requirements when available.
Which CAD and drawing formats does Active prefer?
STEP, IGES, and PDF are the most common preferred formats. Other formats may be reviewed when needed. If there is a controlling drawing, note that clearly in your RFQ.
What is the ordinary file upload limit?
The ordinary public form upload limit is 50 MB. If your files are larger, ask about the best transfer method before sending the package.
Can I upload ITAR, CUI, or export-controlled files through this form?
No. Flag the secure-transfer need in your message, and Active will coordinate the next step before controlled files are exchanged.
What is a typical production lead time?
Typical production lead time is about 3 to 4 weeks, with expedited projects handled case by case. Timing depends on fit, material, process requirements, and current workload.
Still have questions?
If you have other questions that weren’t answered here, feel free to send us a message. We're happy to assist you and provide the information you need.
Ready to Start?
Send the best information you have now. If details are incomplete, Active can help identify the gaps before quoting. You can also review the RFQ questions and answers if you want to confirm file, timing, or process expectations before submitting.
Review the FAQ or contact Active before submitting if your project involves controlled files, unusual materials, urgent timing, or confidential requirements.
