Buyer guide
CNC Part Quality and Inspection: What Buyers Should Specify
Quality documentation should match the risk of the part. Start with the drawing and critical dimensions, then specify the inspection evidence needed to accept the shipment.
Match inspection to the drawing
- Mark critical dimensions and functional interfaces
- Use datums and a consistent measurement reference
- Distinguish default tolerances from tighter feature tolerances
- State whether a sample report or full report is required
Choose the evidence package
- Dimensional inspection report for measured features
- First article inspection for a new or changed part
- Material certificate when grade, traceability or compliance matters
- Surface, hardness or coating report when the finish affects function
Define acceptance before production
- Agree sampling, nonconformance handling and rework approval
- Confirm packaging and identification requirements
- Keep the approved first article as the reference for repeat orders
- Make any required certificate part of the quotation scope