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3D printing quote comparison checklist: how to compare like for like
To compare 3D printing quotes like for like, send every supplier the same files and the same written specification: process, material, quantity, tolerance, finish, inspection and delivery date. Then check that each quote covers that scope before you compare price. This checklist gives the RFQ fields, a worked example and the questions to ask.
Reviewed by HenleyPrint3D engineers6 min readUpdated
Key takeaways
- Send every supplier the same files and the same specification.
- Compare price only after scope matches.
- Ask what inspection and records are included, and who the actual manufacturer is.
- Applies to quotes from Protolabs, Hubs, Craftcloud, HenleyPrint3D or any other supplier.
Suits
Anyone comparing 3D printing quotes from marketplaces, manufacturers or bureaus.
Worth knowing
Competitor details come from each company's public website and are attributed as such (accessed 9 November 2026). They change; check each company's current terms before you decide.
How to compare 3D printing quotes
Compare quotes by building a one-page specification and sending it unchanged to every supplier. Then compare scope, lead time, inspection and support, not just price. Without a shared specification, two quotes for the same part usually cover different work.
What to include in a 3D printing RFQ
| Item | What to state |
|---|---|
| Files | STEP file plus a PDF drawing; units; revision number |
| Process | FDM, SLA, SLS or PolyJet, or ask the supplier to recommend one |
| Material | Exact grade (for example PA12 for SLS), colour, any property needs |
| Quantity | Quantity now and likely repeat volumes |
| Tolerance | Critical dimensions and datum; general tolerance |
| Finish | Support removal, sanding, dyeing, painting, none |
| Inspection | Reports, certificates, first article or none |
| Delivery | Required date, address, packaging, incoterms if exporting |
| Confidentiality | NDA needed? Restrictions on data handling? |
Worked example: a bracket
The table below is filled in for an example part. Copy the structure and change the values.
| RFQ field | Bracket example (same text to every supplier) |
|---|---|
| Part | Sensor mounting bracket, 120 x 60 x 40 mm, drawing rev C, STEP file rev C |
| Process and material | SLS, PA12, natural grey (or "supplier to recommend, with reason") |
| Quantity | 25 now; 100 more likely within 6 months |
| Critical features | Two 8 mm bores, 80 mm centre-to-centre, ±0.3 mm; one flat mounting face, 0.3 mm flatness |
| General tolerance | Process standard; supplier to state it |
| Finish | Support and powder removal, bead blast, dyed black |
| Inspection | Measurement report for the critical features on a stated sample size |
| Delivery | Required by 20 November, to a UK address, tracked, packed per part |
| Confidentiality | NDA before files are shared |
Where to enter each item, by supplier type
| Item | Online marketplace or instant-quote tool | Manufacturer or bureau by email |
|---|---|---|
| Files | Upload field (check accepted formats on the page) | Attach STEP and PDF drawing |
| Process, material, finish, quantity | Configurator options | Write in the email, or ask for a recommendation |
| Tolerance and inspection | Often only in notes: ask for written confirmation | State in the email and ask for the quote to repeat it |
| Delivery and confidentiality | Date picker and terms; NDA by separate request | State in the email; NDA before sending files |
Checklist for comparing responses
- Is the process and material the same in every quote?
- Is the finish included or extra?
- Is the tolerance stated, and who checks it?
- Is the lead time calendar days or working days, and does it include shipping?
- Are minimum order fees, set-up costs or delivery charges added later?
- Who is the manufacturer: the company quoting or a third party?
- What happens if the part is wrong?
- Is a person reviewing the design, and can you talk to them?
How to read each line of a quote
| Line to find | Why it changes the price | Ask |
|---|---|---|
| Process and machine | FDM, SLS, SLA and PolyJet differ in accuracy, surface and cost | Which process, and why? |
| Material grade | Generic names hide different grades | Exact grade and datasheet? |
| Orientation and support | Affects strength and surface | Who decides, and is it stated? |
| Post-processing | Dyeing, painting or sanding adds labour | Is it in the price? |
| Inspection output | A report costs time | What is measured, on how many parts? |
| Shipping and packaging | Fragile parts need protection | Included? Which carrier? |
Get a comparable quote on your own part
Send the same STEP file and drawing you sent elsewhere. We recommend the process, material and finish, and quote with the lead time up front.
How to run a fair trial order
- Use one real part with a hole, a thin wall and a mating face.
- Freeze the revision.
- Send the identical package to two or three suppliers on the same day.
- Log questions asked, design feedback offered and answer times.
- Order 3 to 5 parts, not 1.
- Measure the same features with the same instrument on arrival.
- Score fit, finish, documents and communication before price.
HenleyPrint3D specifications for comparison
For context only. Our processes: FDM up to 1000 × 1000 × 1000 mm (±0.5%), SLA to 350 x 250 x 250 mm at 10 micron, SLS in PA12 to 165 x 165 x 300 mm (±0.3%), and PolyJet at 16-30 micron layers, from 1 calendar day (SLS from 2). The full range is on the 3D printing services and finishing services pages. We are working towards ISO 9001. A quote from us states the process, material, finish, lead time and what is inspected, so it can be laid next to others.
Common mistakes
The checklist applies equally to quotes from Protolabs, Hubs and Craftcloud; see the guides to a Protolabs alternative in the UK, a Hubs alternative in the UK and a Craftcloud alternative in the UK. See also the full platform comparison, online platforms vs a UK engineering partner and how to choose an additive manufacturing supplier. To test the checklist on your own part, get an instant 3D printing quote or contact an engineer.
Last reviewed 9 November 2026. Check each company's current terms.
Frequently asked questions
How do I compare 3D printing quotes?
Send the same files and specification to each supplier, then compare scope, tolerance, finish, inspection, delivery and lead time before price.
What should an RFQ include?
Files and drawing, process, material, quantity, tolerance, finish, inspection, delivery date and confidentiality needs.
Why do 3D printing quotes differ so much?
Usually because each quote assumes a different process, material, finish, tolerance, inspection level or lead time.
Should I always pick the cheapest quote?
Only if the scope is identical and the part is not fit-critical.
How many suppliers should I ask for a 3D printing quote?
Two or three is enough for most parts. More quotes add work without adding information unless the first ones disagree widely.
Is lead time in working days or calendar days?
It varies by supplier. Ask, and ask whether it includes finishing and shipping. Ours is quoted from 1 calendar day (SLS from 2).
What file should I send for a 3D printing quote?
A STEP file plus a PDF drawing with critical dimensions, both at the same revision. A mesh file such as STL loses units and curved-surface accuracy.
Can HenleyPrint3D quote from my specification?
Yes. Upload your files for an instant quote or contact an engineer.
Get started
Compare us on your own part.
Send us your CAD. We recommend the process, material and finish, and quote with the lead time up front.
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