An RFQ may include photographs, basic dimensions and the required quantity, yet still not provide a reliable basis for quotation. The problem is usually not the absence of every detail. It is the absence of the details that determine how the component must function: mounting arrangement, load, material, finish, tolerances or the current revision of the documentation.
In our experience, the requests that require the most clarification are often those that initially appear complete but allow several technical interpretations. A specified wire diameter may include the coating or refer to the bare wire. A spacing value may describe the clear opening or the centre-to-centre distance. The overall size of a basket may or may not include handles, guides or projecting mounting features.
Complete dimensions do not always mean a complete specification
A wire component specification should describe more than its external shape. It should also explain how the shelf, basket, divider or grid will operate inside the final equipment, shelving system or display.
Two shelves with identical overall dimensions may require different construction if one is supported continuously along its edges and the other rests on several hooks. Two similar baskets may also have different requirements if one remains stationary while the other moves regularly inside guides.
If you need to prepare dimensional documentation, use our guide on how to correctly measure a wire shelf, basket or divider before requesting a quote. This article focuses on the project decisions that dimensions alone cannot communicate.
Mistakes that most often delay a quotation
| Specification mistake | Possible consequence | What should be clarified |
|---|---|---|
| Intended application is missing | Incorrect assumptions about construction or finish | Equipment, mounting location, environment and operating method |
| A photograph is treated as the complete specification | Geometry and mounting details remain unclear | Which features are binding and which are only illustrative |
| Material and finish are described vaguely | Different process, durability or cost than expected | Material grade, coating system, colour and surface requirements |
| Load conditions are not defined | Incorrect stiffness or support arrangement | Load value, distribution, frequency and support method |
| Critical dimensions are not identified | The part may have the correct overall size but still fail to fit | Datums, interfaces, clearances and tolerances |
| Email, drawing and photograph contain conflicting data | The quotation may be based on the wrong version | Current revision and the governing source of information |
| Quantity and project stage are missing | Cost and lead time cannot be assessed accurately | Samples, first series and expected repeat volumes |
The intended application is not described
Terms such as wire shelf, basket or divider do not explain the conditions in which the component will operate.
Humidity, temperature changes, cleaning frequency, contact with packaging, product replenishment and regular movement all affect the requirements. The same applies to the way the component is installed and supported.
A short, specific description of the function often provides more useful information than another photograph without context. It helps distinguish a component intended for a dry retail display from a part used inside refrigeration equipment or a frequently operated sliding system.
A photograph or physical sample may not represent the target condition
Photographs are valuable during an initial assessment, but they cannot confirm exact wire diameters, tolerances or material grades. They also do not show whether a visible bend is intentional or caused by wear.
A physical reference sample can create a similar issue. A component used for several years may be deformed, and its surface finish may be worn. The request should therefore state whether the sample must be reproduced exactly or whether it is intended only to demonstrate the general geometry and mounting principle.
Material and finish are separate requirements
Descriptions such as stainless steel, zinc finish, black paint or plastic coating may be too general.
If the project requires a specific stainless steel grade, it should be identified. For powder coating, the relevant information may include the RAL colour, gloss level and surface texture. Other finishes should be defined with reference to the operating environment and required performance.
The finish can also affect dimensions in areas that require close fit. This is particularly important around hooks, guides, holes and other mounting interfaces.
Missing tolerances and unnecessarily tight tolerances
Without tolerances, it may be unclear which dimensions control installation and acceptance. However, applying very tight tolerances to every dimension can unnecessarily increase production complexity and cost.
Critical dimensions should be identified according to function. These are usually the dimensions responsible for mounting, stability, movement or interaction with another component. Acceptance criteria should focus on these interfaces instead of treating every dimension as equally critical.
Multiple documents without a current revision
A frequent source of error is a request containing a drawing, model, photographs and additional dimensions in the email, with small differences between them.
One document should be identified as the governing source and marked with a revision number or date. Any deviation from that document should be stated clearly. The quotation, sample approval and series production can then refer to the same set of requirements.
Quantity and project stage affect the quotation
The cost of a wire component is not determined solely by the amount of material. Production preparation, tooling, machine setup, inspection, finishing and packaging must also be considered.
The RFQ should therefore distinguish between:
- the number of samples required for validation,
- the size of the first production batch,
- the expected recurring or annual volume,
- the required dates for samples and series production.
If the project is still at the testing stage, an estimate of the target volume after approval is also useful.
A short specification check before sending an RFQ
Before submitting the request, verify that:
- the application and operating environment are described,
- the current documentation revision is identified,
- critical dimensions and interfaces are marked,
- material and finish requirements are stated separately,
- load and support conditions are described,
- sample and production quantities are provided,
- the main acceptance criteria are defined.
The first request does not always need to include a complete production drawing. It should, however, explain the component’s purpose and identify assumptions that cannot be made without confirmation.
How SHELMO reviews wire component specifications
SHELMO manufactures wire shelves, baskets, dividers, grids and other wire components according to customer drawings and specifications. Before preparing a quotation, we review the available geometry, mounting features, material, finish, batch size and sample requirements.
Where information is incomplete or ambiguous, we ask focused technical questions. The objective is to establish one clear basis for quotation, sample approval and repeatable series production.
Send your specification for review
Do you have a drawing, photograph, physical sample or preliminary specification? Send the available information through our Quick Quote form. We will check whether it is sufficient for an initial assessment and identify the points that require clarification.
Frequently asked questions
Is a technical drawing always required to quote a wire component?
Not always. Clear photographs, a sketch, basic dimensions, the intended application and required quantity may be sufficient for an initial assessment. Production documentation may be required at a later stage.
Which specification mistake creates the greatest risk?
Missing information about installation and intended use creates the greatest risk. A component can have correct overall dimensions and still fail to fit or operate correctly in the final equipment.
Is “stainless steel” a sufficient material specification?
Not always. If the project requires a particular stainless steel grade, it should be identified. Surface condition or additional finishing requirements should be stated separately.
Does producing a sample replace a complete specification?
No. A sample validates the agreed requirements, fit and workmanship. The main parameters and acceptance criteria must still be established before the sample can be evaluated objectively.
Why is quantity required at the RFQ stage?
Batch size affects production preparation, tooling, packaging, unit cost and lead time. State the number of samples, the first production batch and the expected repeat volume separately.
