What Affects the Cost of Custom Metal Stamping?

A custom metal stamping quotation reflects more than the size of the finished part. Material, tooling, production quantity and finishing requirements all contribute to the project.

Understanding these factors helps buyers prepare a clearer RFQ and compare suppliers on a consistent basis.

Material and Thickness

State the required material grade and sheet thickness.

Different materials can require different processing approaches. The amount of material used, the part layout and production scrap also affect the quotation.

If alternative materials are acceptable, identify them clearly and confirm any proposed change before production.

Part Geometry and Tooling

Holes, bends and formed features influence the tooling and production sequence.

A simple flat component and a part with several formed features may require very different manufacturing routes.

Ask whether the quotation includes dedicated tooling. For repeat orders, clarify tooling ownership, storage, maintenance and the procedure for future drawing changes.

Custom Stamped Part and Tooling

Initial Quantity and Repeat Demand

Order quantity affects how setup and tooling costs are distributed.

Provide both the initial order and the expected repeat demand. A supplier can then assess the project using a more realistic production plan.

If your forecast is uncertain, request quotations for several practical quantity levels rather than committing to an unsupported estimate.

Secondary Operations and Surface Finish

Some parts require additional work after stamping, such as deburring, tapping, welding or surface treatment.

Specify these requirements in the RFQ. Also explain whether the part has visible surfaces, controlled edges or areas that must remain free of coating.

This helps prevent different suppliers from quoting different scopes of work.

Tolerances and Inspection

Identify dimensions that are critical to assembly or function.

Include inspection requirements, sample approval needs and any requested reports. These should be agreed before production rather than added after the order is placed.

Stamped Part Before and After Deburring

How to Prepare a Comparable RFQ

Send each supplier the same:

• Drawing revision
• Material and thickness
• Quantity
• Surface finish
• Inspection requirements
• Packaging and delivery requirements

Ask suppliers to identify tooling separately and explain any assumptions or exclusions.

Request a Project Review from GARBO

GARBO supplies custom stamped metal parts, including brackets, clips and other non-standard components.

Send us your drawing, material, quantity and finishing requirements. We can review your project and discuss tooling, sample preparation and production arrangements.

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