How to Use Our Instant 3D Printing Quoting Tool

If you're working on a tight timeline, speed and accuracy in quoting are essential. Our instant 3D printing quote tool was designed to help engineers, designers, and buyers get reliable pricing without back-and-forth emails or cumbersome RFQ forms. Here's how to use it effectively:

The Step-By-Step

Step 1: Upload Your Model

To begin, visit our quoting page and upload your 3D model. We accept STL, STEP, STP, 3MF, and AMF files. For STL models, as the file itself doesn't tell us the unit of measurement, you must specify the file units. These can be either millimeters or inches. Our Auto-Qutoer will then begin processing.

Unlike other services, we perform a complete analysis of your model geometry to ensure an accurate quote, including standard integrity validation. As a result, while most quotes complete quickly, those with more complex features may take up to 4 minutes to complete. 

Step 2: Select Material, Color, and Print Profile

After processing, you will be directed to a series of configuration pages. Here, choose from several thermoplastics, including PLA, ABS, flexible TPU 95A, and more. Based on your selection, you will be presented with personalized three print profiles, each configured to give you options between the lowest cost and the highest resolution/strength. Add to your quote where you can adjust details such as quantity and lead time. You’ll also notice volume-based discounts kick in, so larger quantity orders benefit from lower per-unit costs. Use the “Add Additional Files” button if you have more files to quote.

NOTE: If you're looking for SLA, SLS, or MJF printing services, please use our manual quote form or contact your dedicated account manager. We are working to add this to our Auto-Quoter soon!

Step 3: Placing Your Order and What Happens Next

Choose your order volume, lead time, and shipping method. Customers local to the San Francisco Bay Area can pick up at our facility in Livermore, CA. Check if pickup is available by using our Pickup Availability Tool. Once your order is placed and paid for, it enters our production pipeline. We will review your order, print it, and ship it to you. You can track progress anytime in our account under the orders tab. It’s Manufacturing Made Accessible.

Get started with a quote now

Avoiding Common File Issues

Uploading clean 3D models helps to keep your quoting experience efficient and error-free. Avoid uploading models with non-manifold edges, overly thin walls, or overlapping surfaces. These types of geometry can trigger errors in our integrity validation.

What Affects Your Quote Behind the Scenes - and how to lower costs

Several variables influence pricing. These include:

1. Complex parts with intricate geometry that require more machine time. 
2. Any overhangs or other model features that require support structures.
3. Material choice directly impacts both performance and price.
4. Optional post-processing, such as advanced support removal.

Before quoting, you should optimize your CAD models for the print process, known as Design for Manufacturing (DFM). If you are unsure how to do this, we offer DFM optimization services. You can request a quote here.

Pricing we can stand behind

As part of our quoting process, we perform a complete analysis of your 3d model's geometry to ensure an accurate quote that we can stand behind. This is why quoting can take up to 4 minutes to complete.

When to Use Our Manual Quote Form

Our Auto-Quoter currently only supports FDM. If you are looking for SLA, SLS, MJF, or have other specialized requirements, submit an RFQ using our manual quote form. The Auto-Quoter may also redirect you to the manual quote in certain cases.

FAQ: Common Questions We Get About Quoting

How do I get help if my file won’t upload or quote?

Contact your account manager or reach out via our contact form; they will be happy to help you.

Why does the quote take up to four minutes?

We run a complete analysis to ensure an accurate quote that we can stand behind.

What if I need a technology other than FDM?

Submit a manual quote request, and our team will reply within 24 hours.

Is there a minimum order quantity?

No MOQs. Order a single prototype or ramp up to production as needed.

Can I upload multiple files at once?

To order multiple unique files, upload one at a time. Use the “Upload Another File” button on the quote summary page to add more parts to your order.

You can read up on more common questions about all our services at www.simplemachining.com/faqs. If you still can't find the answer, contact us via our contact form.

Step-by-Step Summary

1. Upload your file

Go to our quoting page and upload your STL, STP, STEP, 3MF, or AMF file. For STL, choose between millimeters or inches for the file units.

2. Choose your material, color, and print profile

Select from over 20 materials and colors available.

3. Review your dynamic quote

See real-time pricing, including volume discounts and lead time options.

4. Add to your quote summary

Upload additional parts one at a time, adjusting each configuration as needed.

5. Finalize and place your order

Choose your shipping method, complete payment, and submit your job.

6. Track production and delivery

Our team handles the rest—from prep to quality control to shipping. You can track the progress of your order at any time in your account under the "orders" tab.

Key Takeaways

• Instant Quotes 24/7
• Upload a 3D model and get pricing in just a few minutes.
• Built for Precision and Reliability
• Our quoting engine performs complete geometry analysis to deliver pricing we can stand behind.
• Support every step of the way
• Whether you're uploading your first file or ordering in volume, we're here to help.

Ready to quote your next project? Try it now and get a price you can trust—fast.

Explore our complete Guide to On-Demand 3D Printing for more insights on materials, technologies, and production tips.