A drawing checklist for your next sheet metal quote.
A useful request explains the geometry, the requirements that control the part, and what you need from this run. Use this checklist to gather the information Nova will review before quoting.
Six areas to check.
If a requirement is not decided yet, identify it in the request notes so it can be clarified.
Identify the released part
Make it clear which part and revision the request is for.
- Include the part name, part number, and drawing revision.
- State drawing units and use them consistently.
- Identify the file or drawing that controls if you provide multiple formats.
- Remove superseded files, or clearly label reference information and explain any conflicts.
Define material and thickness
The requested material is part of the manufacturing scope.
- Specify material grade or designation, not only a general family where a particular grade is required.
- State thickness with units; clarify any gauge notation.
- Identify any material certification or traceability requirements.
- Call out approved alternatives only if you want Nova to review them.
Communicate fit and geometry
Separate ordinary dimensions from the features that control function.
- Dimension profiles, holes, slots, cutouts, and locating features from clear references.
- Define bends, their direction, angles, and any specified radii.
- Include the applicable general tolerances and specific critical tolerances.
- Identify mating surfaces, clearance, flatness, or other functional requirements where applicable.
Specify finish and inspection
Appearance and acceptance requirements need to be visible in the request.
- State deburring, edge treatment, coating, plating, or other finish requirements.
- Identify visible faces, color or finish specifications, grain direction, and masking.
- Include required inspection, first-article documentation, or measurement reports.
- State any functional or performance requirements that need separate review or verification.
Describe this run and the next
Quantity and timing help define the quotation, including setup and handling.
- Give the quantity needed for this run.
- Identify whether the request is a prototype, first article, or production run.
- Include expected repeat cadence and annual quantity when known; planning estimates are not a purchase commitment.
- Provide requested delivery and shipping destination. Nova confirms timing and freight treatment in the quotation.
Include the assembly scope
For assemblies, the relationship between components matters as much as each individual part.
- Include an assembly drawing and bill of materials with component quantities.
- Identify component revisions, purchased hardware, and who supplies each item.
- Specify weld locations and weld requirements, including any appearance or inspection needs.
- Define the finish sequence, masking, and fit or inspection requirements for the completed assembly.
Give every file a clear role.
- 01
A model explains shape; a drawing explains requirements.
If you send both, identify the controlling drawing and revision. Include tolerances, finish, material, and inspection requirements that may not be present in the model.
- 02
Reference files should be marked as reference.
If a mating part, previous revision, or photograph helps explain the request, label its purpose. Do not leave conflicting dimensions or revisions unexplained.
- 03
Changes need an updated request.
If the geometry, material, finish, or revision changes, submit the current files and identify the change. A repeat request is for the same specifications and attached drawing revision.
Questions about the request.
Can I submit a request if some requirements are undecided?
Yes. Identify the open items in the requirements field and explain what you need reviewed. Nova may need clarification before preparing a quotation or confirming production scope.
Does the requested delivery date confirm a ship date?
No. It tells Nova what you are working toward. Production timing, delivery arrangements, and freight treatment are confirmed through the quotation and subsequent coordination.
Should an assembly be split into separate requests?
Use the assembly review path when you want the complete assembly reviewed together. Include a bill of materials, assembly drawing, component revisions, weld and finish requirements, and any items you will supply. Nova can clarify the appropriate scope during review.
Ready to share the drawing?
Submit the current revision and requirements. Pricing, material availability, and production timing are confirmed after review.