Frequently Asked Questions About Custom Metal Fabrication
Get instant answers to the most common questions about our custom metal fabrication, CNC machining, metal stamping, laser cutting, and OEM manufacturing services. Can’t find your answer? Contact our engineering team for a personalized response within 24 hours.
Pricing and Quotation
How is the price calculated for custom metal parts?
Our pricing is calculated based on material costs, machining time, complexity of the design, surface finish requirements, order quantity, and shipping. Send us your CAD files (STEP, IGES, DWG, DXF) and we’ll provide a detailed line-by-line quote within 24 hours — with no hidden setup or tooling fees for standard orders.
What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
There is no minimum order quantity at Beijing JCEN. We accept everything from single prototype pieces to production runs of 100,000+ units. Whether you’re validating a new design or scaling to mass production, we deliver with the same commitment to quality.
How can I get an accurate quote quickly?
For the fastest quote, upload your 3D CAD file in STEP, IGES, SolidWorks (.sldprt), or Inventor (.ipt) format. Our platform performs automatic manufacturability checks and returns pricing within 24 hours. For 2D drawings, DXF is preferred for laser cutting parts.
CAD Files and Design
What CAD file formats do you accept?
We accept all major CAD formats:
- 3D formats: STEP (.stp/.step), IGES (.igs/.iges), SolidWorks (.sldprt), Inventor (.ipt), Parasolid (.x_t/.x_b)
- 2D formats: AutoCAD (.dwg/.dxf), PDF drawings with dimensions
- For complex assemblies: Full STEP assembly files are preferred
What should I keep in mind when preparing CAD drawings?
To ensure accurate quotes and smooth production:
- Include material specifications (grade, thickness, temper)
- Specify tolerances only where critical (over-specifying increases cost)
- Indicate surface finish requirements (Ra values, coating types)
- For DXF drawings, ensure only the actual part outline and cutouts are shown (no dimensions or borders)
- For sheet metal, indicate bend directions and inside bend radii
Do you offer design-for-manufacturability (DFM) review?
Yes, free DFM review is included with every quote. Our engineering team reviews your design and provides specific recommendations to reduce cost, improve manufacturability, and shorten lead time — before you commit to production.
Materials and Finishing
What materials do you work with?
We stock 100+ metal grades including:
- Stainless steel: 304, 316, 316L, 430, 410, 420
- Aluminum: 5052, 6061, 7075, 3003, 1050
- Carbon steel: A36, 1018, Q235, Q345, DC01, SPCC
- Copper & Brass: T1, T2, H59, H62, H68
- Special alloys: Titanium, spring steel, tool steel, galvanized steel
See our full materials list for complete specifications.
What surface finishes and treatments do you offer?
We provide comprehensive finishing services:
- Powder coating (all RAL colors)
- Anodizing (Type II and Type III)
- Electroplating (zinc, nickel, chrome, gold)
- Passivation (for stainless steel)
- Sandblasting (glass bead, aluminum oxide)
- Polishing (mirror, satin, brushed)
- Chromate conversion (Alodine)
- Laser engraving and marking
Lead Time and Production
How long does it take to receive samples?
Standard sample lead time is 7-10 business days depending on complexity. Rush service (5-day samples) is available for an additional fee. Some simple laser-cut parts can be ready in 72 hours.
What are typical lead times for mass production?
Mass production typically takes 20-30 business days after sample approval, depending on order quantity, complexity, and finishing requirements. We provide a detailed production schedule with every accepted order.
Can you handle rush orders?
Yes, we offer expedited production for urgent projects. Rush orders are accommodated based on capacity and typically incur 10-30% additional fees. Contact us with your deadline for a customized rush solution.
Quality Assurance
What quality standards do you follow?
We are ISO 9001:2015 certified and follow international quality standards including:
- 5-stage quality inspection process (IQC, FAI, IPQC, FQC, OQC)
- PPAP submission ready for automotive customers
- EN 10204 3.1 material certification
- ROHS and REACH compliance
- CMM inspection accurate to ±0.002mm
See our full quality control process for details.
What tolerances can you achieve?
Our capabilities vary by process:
- CNC Machining: ±0.005mm (5 microns)
- Sheet Metal Fabrication: ±0.01mm to ±0.1mm
- Metal Stamping: ±0.05mm to ±0.1mm
- Laser Cutting: ±0.05mm
Tighter tolerances are available on request with appropriate cost adjustment.
Do you provide inspection reports?
Yes, every order includes a full dimensional inspection report, material certificate, and surface treatment report (where applicable). Advanced inspection reports (PPAP, First Article Inspection, SPC data) are available on request.
Industries Served
Which industries do you serve?
Beijing JCEN serves OEMs across diverse industries:
- 🚗 Automotive & Transportation — Brackets, mounting plates, sensor housings
- ✈️ Aerospace & Defense — Lightweight structural components
- 🏥 Medical Devices — Precision instrument parts, clean-room compatible
- 📱 Electronics & Telecommunications — EMI enclosures, heat sinks
- 🏭 Industrial Machinery — Heavy-duty frames, welded assemblies
- ☀️ Renewable Energy — Solar mounting systems, wind turbine brackets
- 🍳 Food & Pharmaceutical — Sanitary-grade stainless steel equipment
- 🏗️ Construction & Architecture — Custom architectural metalwork
Shipping and Logistics
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we ship worldwide via DHL, FedEx, UPS air express (3-7 days) or sea freight (15-30 days). We handle all export documentation, customs paperwork, and can arrange door-to-door delivery.
How do you package parts for international shipping?
All parts are professionally packed to prevent damage:
- Anti-rust oil coating for ferrous metals
- Individual bubble wrap for precision parts
- Vacuum-sealed packaging for sensitive components
- Custom wooden crates for large or heavy items
- Fumigated wood packaging for compliance with international phytosanitary standards
Payment and Contracts
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept:
- T/T bank transfer (wire transfer)
- PayPal (for smaller orders under $5,000)
- Credit card via Alibaba Trade Assurance
- Letter of Credit (L/C) for large orders
- Western Union (for expedited small orders)
What are your payment terms?
Standard terms for first-time customers: 50% deposit before production, 50% balance before shipment. Repeat customers may qualify for net-30 or other favorable terms after establishing a payment history.
Intellectual Property Protection
How do you protect my design confidentiality?
Your intellectual property is our top priority:
- ✅ We sign Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) before reviewing any design files
- ✅ All CAD data is stored on encrypted servers with restricted access
- ✅ Only your assigned project engineer accesses your files
- ✅ We do not manufacture your parts for other customers
- ✅ Physical samples and prototypes are destroyed on request
Getting Started
How do I place my first order?
Our process is simple:
- Send your files — Upload CAD via our quote form
- Receive your quote — Detailed pricing within 24 hours
- Sample production — 7-10 days for validation
- Sample approval — Your approval before mass production
- Mass production — Full order according to schedule
- Global shipping — Door-to-door delivery worldwide
Still Have Questions?
Our engineering team is here to help. We provide 1-on-1 engineering support, competitive pricing, on-time delivery, and rigorous quality control. Contact us today for a personalized consultation.
Get Your Free Quote in 24 Hours →
📧 Email: manager@bjjcen.com
📞 Phone / WhatsApp: +86 138-3270-9345
