CNC machining FAQ · Ordering, quality, shipping
Frequently asked questions
Answers to the questions engineers ask before ordering custom CNC machined parts from China: minimum order, file formats, tolerances, lead times, shipping, duties, payment and confidentiality.
Ordering
Ordering
Is there a minimum order quantity?
No. The minimum is 1 piece. We make single prototypes and low-volume runs up to about 1,000 parts.
How fast will I get a quote?
Within 12 hours of uploading your files. The quote includes unit price per quantity, DFM notes, lead time and shipping cost to your country.
What is the lead time?
Standard production is 7 days or less. Expedited production is 3–4 days. Express shipping adds 3–5 days. See how ordering works for the full timeline.
Where are the parts made?
In partner machine shops in China. Each order is managed and inspected by our team before shipping. Read more on CNC machining in China.
Are there parts you will not make?
We do not accept ITAR, export-controlled or weapons-related parts.
Files & design
Files and design
Which file formats do you accept?
STEP/STP, IGES/IGS, STL, X_T, DWG, DXF, PDF and ZIP, up to 50 MB each. The best package is a STEP model plus a PDF drawing. See how to prepare CAD files for a CNC quote.
Do I need a 2D drawing?
For simple parts a 3D model can be enough, but a drawing is how you tell us tolerances, threads, finish and critical features. Without one, we machine to the model at our standard tolerance of ±0.03 mm.
Will you suggest design changes to reduce cost?
Yes. Every quote includes free DFM notes, such as relaxing non-critical tolerances, enlarging internal corner radii or using standard thread sizes. You decide what to accept. See what drives CNC machining cost.
Tolerances & quality
Tolerances and quality
What tolerance can you hold?
Our standard is ±0.03 mm. Tighter tolerances on critical features are possible when called out on the drawing and confirmed in the quote. See CNC machining tolerances.
How do you check the parts?
You approve a first article by photos and measurements before the batch, and every order ships with an inspection report of critical dimensions. Details on the quality and inspection page.
What if parts arrive out of tolerance?
Send us photos and measurements. If the parts do not meet the approved drawing, we remake them free.
Can I get material certificates?
Yes, material (mill) certificates are available on request. Ask when you request the quote. Our materials page lists the grades we machine.
Shipping & duties
Shipping and duties
How are parts shipped?
By DHL, FedEx or UPS express, typically 3–5 days, with a tracking number. The shipping cost is included in your quote.
Who pays import duties and taxes?
By default the receiver pays duties and taxes when the courier delivers. Ask for DDP pricing and the duties are included in the quote, so nothing is due on delivery.
Payment
Payment
How can I pay?
PayPal, credit card via PayPal, or international bank transfer (T/T). Invoices are in USD or EUR. Use the pay page to pay an invoice.
When do I pay?
After you approve the quote. Production starts once payment is confirmed. See our terms of sale.
Confidentiality
Confidentiality
Will you sign an NDA?
Yes. We sign your NDA or send ours before reviewing your files. Tick the NDA box on the quote form.
Who sees my CAD files?
Only our team and the engineers quoting and making your part. We do not sell or publish your files. See the privacy policy.