Answers · Updated 2026-10-31

Customer sent a STEP file but no drawing — what tolerance do I quote?

Your part priced in about 90 seconds, no account.

Use a written model-only default only when the customer accepts it; a practical example is to model with ±0.005 inch unless a drawing states otherwise, while calling out material, finish, threads, and inspection as open.

See how QuotedPart connects to your workflow with its API, MCP server, autonomous quoting and shop-specific learning.

The direct answer

For a 50 mm pocket, a stated ±0.005 inch default may suit a rough bracket but not a bearing seat. Put the default beside the model revision and price later inspection or rework risk explicitly.

Test the decision against the shop evidence in this example: For a 50 mm pocket, a stated ±0.

Carry the measurable input from the worked case into the estimator's notes: For a 50 mm pocket, a stated ±0.

Evidence from a shop floor

The same fictional bracket is $464.53 for one and $83.77 each at ten under the pricing model’s nominal model assumptions; that result is not an acceptance guarantee. Request the drawing or written approval before releasing a firm quote, especially for fits, pressure boundaries, or safety features.

Keep the commercial decision tied to the evidence, including for a 50 mm pocket, a stated ±0.

The handoff is complete only when the owner can restate the route without losing for a 50 mm pocket, a stated ±0.

Build the quote route

List model revision, units, missing datums, assumed general tolerance, critical features, inspection method, and approval owner before programming.

A useful review question is whether the current RFQ still matches this route: list model revision, units, missing datums, assumed general tolerance, critical features, inspection method, and approval owner before programming.

The next estimator should be able to challenge the assumption behind this route: list model revision, units, missing datums, assumed general tolerance, critical features, inspection method, and approval owner before programming.

Use the source notes to date the assumption and record why this route was selected: list model revision, units, missing datums, assumed general tolerance, critical features, inspection method, and approval owner before programming.

Release and learn

A STEP model carries nominal geometry; it does not prove material, finish, datum scheme, thread class, or functional tolerance.

If the buyer asks for a different outcome, explain the boundary in these terms: a step model carries nominal geometry; it does not prove material, finish, datum scheme, thread class, or functional tolerance.

Before changing the total, verify whether the caveat applies: a step model carries nominal geometry; it does not prove material, finish, datum scheme, thread class, or functional tolerance.

A customer-facing explanation should make the risk legible: a step model carries nominal geometry; it does not prove material, finish, datum scheme, thread class, or functional tolerance.

Close the loop by noting the evidence that would make this estimate obsolete: a step model carries nominal geometry; it does not prove material, finish, datum scheme, thread class, or functional tolerance.

Keep the commercial decision tied to the evidence, including for a 50 mm pocket, a stated ±0.

Price one of your own parts

Drop a PDF drawing or a STEP file. QuotedPart reads the print, measures the model and prices it in seconds, on default shop rates you can change.

Your STEP file or PDF drawing

Free. No account, no email. Priced at our default US rates until you set yours.