Injection Molding RFQ Checklist

The short answer

A strong RFQ connects geometry, function, volume and approval.

Send the best available part definition, explain what the part must survive, state expected demand and identify how the first molded parts will be approved. If a detail is unknown, label it as an open decision. Clear uncertainty is more useful than an unsupported specification.

01 / Part definition

Give the supplier one controlled description of the part.

A 3D model describes the shape; a 2D drawing explains what matters about that shape. Share both when possible and make the revision visible. The RFQ should identify dimensions that control assembly, sealing, motion or appearance instead of assigning the same tolerance to every feature.

3D geometrySTEP or another agreed neutral CAD format, with the current revision.

2D drawingCritical dimensions, tolerances, datum strategy, finish and notes.

Reference evidenceApproved sample, installed-part photos or mating components where useful.

Part statusNew design, redesign, replacement part or existing mold transfer.

Do not hide incomplete information.

Mark target values, assumptions and open questions separately. That lets DFM focus on decisions that can still change before tooling.

02 / Application context

Describe the working environment before naming a resin.

Material selection begins with service conditions. Temperature range, continuous load, impact, chemicals, UV, moisture, flame requirements, appearance and regulatory needs can change both resin and geometry. If an existing material works, provide the exact grade rather than only the polymer family.

InputWhy it changes the molding route

Load + assemblyInfluences wall strategy, ribs, bosses, inserts and creep review.

Temperature + mediaNarrows resin options and may change drying or validation needs.

AppearanceAffects gate, parting line, ejection, texture and acceptable visual limits.

Critical functionDefines inspection points and what the first article must prove.

03 / Commercial context

Tooling cannot be separated from demand and program life.

Annual demand, order frequency, launch quantity, target timing and expected program life help define cavity strategy, tool construction, validation effort and packing. Also state destination, Incoterm requirements when known, and whether the quotation should separate mold cost, unit price, secondary work and freight.

Volume: prototype need, annual demand, peak monthly demand and order cadence.
Ownership: mold ownership, storage, maintenance, spare components and transfer expectations.
Approval: sample quantity, dimensional report, material documents, fit test and customer sign-off.
Finished supply: assembly, marking, labeling, packing, lot identity and delivery destination.

04 / What a useful response contains

Evaluate the assumptions, not only the quoted price.

A credible response should state what was reviewed, what remains open and which evidence is needed before release. Machine fit, process boundary, timing and project-specific documentation should be confirmed in writing rather than inferred from a generic capability claim.

DFM observations

Geometry risks, proposed changes and questions tied to the current revision.

Material + tool route

Proposed resin basis, tool assumptions, cavity strategy and trial path.

Approval plan

First-off samples, critical measurements, appearance and functional checks.

Commercial boundary

Included operations, exclusions, lead-time basis, packing and delivery terms.

Build an injection molding RFQ engineers can act on.