Say what you have and what may change
List the available CAD or mesh format and its revision. STL describes mesh geometry; a 3MF project can also carry information such as units and multiple objects, depending on how it was prepared. Ask which format is useful for the review rather than assuming every exported file retains the same information.
State whether design changes are allowed. Distinguish a file to manufacture as supplied from a concept that needs reconstruction or modification. A screenshot helps explain the configuration, but it is not a substitute for agreed dimensions.
Confirm units and overall dimensions
| Item | Example of useful information | Mistake it helps avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Revision | Enclosure rev C; supersedes rev B | Quoting or manufacturing an outdated design |
| Units | Millimetres; overall length stated separately | A silent scale mismatch |
| Part list | Two halves and four identical clips per set | Confusing a set quantity with one component |
| Critical features | Marked mating holes and visible faces | Treating every surface as equally important |
| Use | Appearance review, assembly check or defined test | Choosing a process without a purpose |
| Finish | As-printed or an agreed visible finish | Expecting finishing that was never scoped |
Flag features that deserve review
Point out thin sections, enclosed spaces, unsupported details, engraved text, joining seams and surfaces that must remain clean. Describe how the part will be held, assembled or displayed. Let the manufacturing review determine orientation, support strategy and any proposed subdivision rather than changing critical geometry without agreement.
For assemblies, provide an overview showing how components meet. Mark which interfaces need a fit check and what constitutes an acceptable result. Do not assume a universal tolerance from a generic process name.
An example handover note
Share restricted files through an agreed route
Use the enquiry to describe the part and the files available. The website does not accept design-file uploads. Ask for a secure transfer arrangement before sending confidential CAD, and confirm what may be used for quotation, manufacturing or public photographs.
Keep personal contact details in the enquiry fields and project information in the brief. Avoid adding names, phone numbers, file contents or confidential filenames to website links.
Next, compare what belongs in a printing quote, review prototype planning or choose a process through manufacturing services.
Sources and further reading
Primary references checked on 21 September 2026. These explain the relevant concepts; they do not establish our current inventory or a quoted capability.