Purchasing & Quality / Purchasing guide
When a quotation changes with quantity, ask which costs are fixed, which repeat per part and which depend on the chosen production approach. This gives a more useful explanation than assuming the material alone determines price. Request quantity scenarios with the same technical scope so the comparison remains meaningful.
Catalogue reference image. Confirm the quoted configuration against the agreed drawing.
Separate development from repeat work
Ask the quotation to distinguish tooling, fixtures, programming, trials or other development items from repeat-unit work where applicable. Confirm what is included in each line. A price that includes development cannot be compared directly with a repeat-order price that assumes approved tooling and documentation already exist.
Keep the scenarios consistent
Use the same drawing revision, finish and acceptance requirements when requesting different quantities. Ask whether a proposed quantity changes the manufacturing or inspection approach. If it does, review the technical implications instead of treating the revised unit price as the only difference.
Clarify order and delivery assumptions
Discuss the requested total quantity, batch split and delivery arrangement. Ask the supplier to identify any assumptions behind its quotation. Minimum order quantity and lead time are supplier- and project-specific terms to confirm; they should not be invented from a general industry rule.
Information to include in your enquiry
| Review item | Information to provide |
|---|---|
| Development | Tooling, trials and other initial work |
| Repeat work | Defined per-part operations and inspection |
| Scenarios | Identical technical scope across quantities |
| Assumptions | Batch split, delivery and validity |
Frequently asked questions
Is there a universal minimum order for custom carbon parts?
No universal value should be assumed. Confirm the requirement and terms for the actual project.
Does a larger order always preserve the same process?
Ask explicitly. A proposed change of approach needs technical review as well as price comparison.
Discuss your carbon fiber component
Send your drawing revision, intended application, quantity and acceptance requirements to Litian Yunde for a project review.