Accuracy vs. Speed: Manual vs. Instant Quoting

Precision and quality in production are critical for all manufacturing technologies, but quote accuracy is also desirable in every successful order.

Quoting is the process of understanding the total costs of manufacturing any given part or product. A supplier must consider factors like the number of units to produce, the precision level, tooling time, and human labor involvement, among other factors that may influence the quoting process.

Every project is unique, and to ensure its success, you need a manufacturing partner who can help you bring your vision to life. Sometimes you will find instant quoting as an option for your orders. However, in this article, we will explore why manual quoting is actually more beneficial for you.

Instant Quoting vs. Manual Quoting: Which one is better?

While instant quoting may seem more convenient due to its quick availability, its fixed costs can have limitations that compromise your project's quality, performance, and overall success, which may lead to a frustrating process.

As a general rule of thumb, we could say that you can pick instant quoting when:

• Your order is easy to produce - It has standard shapes and is very easy to fabricate with your selected manufacturing process.

• You don't need high precision - When you can compromise accuracy over quoting time because it may be a prototype you're producing.

• You don't have a tight budget - You can cover any variable cost increase that may exist due to an increased complexity in machining than expected.

Manual quoting is a better pick for your project when:

• Your part has higher complexity - An expert may need to look carefully at it to understand the best way of producing it.

• You require the highest quality - You value the end result on top of anything else, so you will benefit from a carefully produced quote that will bring the best possible outcome for you.

• You need precise costs - If you need to create a detailed budget for your company, you may benefit from accuracy over promptness.

CNC Machining and Sheet Metal Fabrication are two manufacturing processes that will benefit most from manual quoting regarding reliability. We'll explain in more detail why.

01. Customization

One of the key advantages of manual quoting is greater customization. Highly customized parts often have precise and specialized requirements. With instant quotes, you are limited to predefined options that may not meet your exact needs.

Manual quoting allows you to receive a custom quote that meets your exact specifications and requirements. These can include selecting the right materials, finishes, tolerances, and other aspects of your project to ensure the final product meets your production needs.

02. Accuracy

Another advantage of manual quoting is greater accuracy. Custom CNC Machining and Sheet Metal Fabrication require precision and attention to detail to ensure the final product performs as intended.

With instant quotes, there's often a risk of errors or inaccuracies due to the limited options available and the need for more communication with the fabricator in charge of your products.

03. Cost Savings

Contrary to popular belief, manual quoting can save you money in the long run. While instant quoting may seem more cost-effective, it can have hidden costs that may add up over time.

For example, instant quoting may not accurately estimate the final cost if your project requires high customization or specialized materials. These unexpected expenses may cause conflicts and delays down the line.

Manual quoting allows you to check more details closer with the manufacturer to accurately estimate the final cost, including any necessary customization or specialized materials from the beginning, avoiding unpleasing surprises.

04. Quality Control

High-quality control is critical to ensure the final product performs as intended and avoid receiving or even distributing underperforming products that can harm your company's reputation. With instant quotes, there's often a risk of quality control issues due to the limited options available.

On the other hand, manual cost estimation opens the door for a more suitable quality check to ensure accountability for every aspect of your project, ensuring your final product meets your expectations.

05. Customer Service

Customer service can be critical. It would be best if you had a manufacturing partner who is responsive, reliable, and committed to your project's success.

With manual quoting, you'll work directly with the manufacturer's team of experts, and you'll have access to their knowledge, expertise, and support to obtain the best and most accurate quote.

Whether you have questions about materials, finishes, tolerances, or any other aspect of your project, you can rely on the manufacturer to understand your needs.

Use an Accurate Quoting Service

Ultimately, the most important is getting a precise quote covering your needs and helping you decide to start manufacturing as soon and comfortably as possible.

At Wikifactory, we work to ensure that we deliver precise quotes to all of our clients, considering their specific requirements. Whether 3D Printing, CNC Machining, Sheet Metal Fabrication, or Injection Molding, we're here to cover all your production needs.

Get a quote today and start enjoying the benefits of high-quality quotes with engineering support.

Do you have any doubts? Don't hesitate and contact us through the chat or the comments section below.