How To Avoid Delays When Ordering Custom Machined Parts In The UK

2 min read

May 28, 2025 10:00:00 AM

When working with a custom-machined parts supplier, one of the most common issues that can impact delivery times is missing or unclear information at the quoting and ordering stage. Whether you're sourcing custom-machined parts in the UK for a one-off prototype or a full production run, providing complete and accurate information from the outset can significantly reduce lead times and avoid costly delays.

As experienced machined parts suppliers, we’ve outlined some essential considerations that buyers and engineers should follow to streamline the process.

1. Material Clarity Is Crucial

When specifying materials, it's essential to:

Where possible, use readily available materials, such as Aluminium 6082, tooling aluminium (available in various plate sizes from 1mm to 30mm), mild steel (e.g., BMS), or common stainless grades like 304 and 316.
Always state the material clearly on the drawings, including specific colours for plastics if relevant.
Avoid outdated or obsolete material grades—use current and recognised UK material standards.
Be aware that material naming conventions differ between countries, so stick to UK-recognised standards such as BS, EN, or ISO where possible.

2. Include Detailed Process Requirements

Manufacturers each have their own preferred machining methods. To help them produce your part correctly:

Specify tolerances clearly on your drawings.
Highlight any special processes, such as surface grinding or hardening.
Indicate any assembly requirements and the type of fit needed for mating parts.
List all secondary processes such as anodising, plating, or painting, and specify if you want the supplier to manage them.

3. Prepare A Clear And Complete Quotation Request

To get accurate and timely quotes from custom machined parts suppliers, be sure to:

Provide a list of parts, including part numbers, descriptions, and quantities.
Include PDF drawings alongside CAD files (DXFs or 3D models) to avoid misinterpretation or scaling issues.
State a clear deadline for when you require the quote.
Specify the expected delivery date if the quote is successful—this allows the supplier to assess and potentially adjust their schedule to accommodate your project.

4. Submit Complete And Accurate Orders

Once you’ve selected your custom machined parts supplier, place the official order promptly and ensure the following:

Send a purchase order listing part descriptions, quantities, part numbers, and drawing revisions.
Reattach all relevant drawings, CAD files, and models—even if they were previously sent during the quotation stage.
Confirm that drawing versions match those on the purchase order to avoid confusion and rework.
Complete and return any supplier account forms promptly to avoid administrative delays.

5. Follow Up And Communicate Clearly

Always request an order confirmation. This ensures your order has been received and acknowledged—especially important if your contact is unavailable.

Check the lead time again at the time of ordering, particularly if some time has passed since the quote.

Be responsive if the supplier raises questions about the drawings or files, especially as issues may only surface just before machining starts.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a reliable custom machined parts supplier in the UK is the first step—but clear communication, complete technical documentation, and proactive project management are just as important. By following the steps above, you can build strong relationships with your machined parts suppliers, avoid production bottlenecks, and keep your project timelines on track.

If you're looking for a dependable UK-based partner for your next machining project, JR Gilbert Engineering offers a full range of CNC milling, turning, water jet cutting, gear cutting, surface grinding, and fabrication services—all under one roof. We’re ISO 9001 accredited and work with a wide range of materials to deliver high-quality, precision-engineered components with competitive lead times.