Quick reality check
These are the main ideas that usually decide whether the job goes smoothly.
- STEP is strongest when bends or 3D review matter.
- Modeled thickness should match the part you expect to buy.
- Formed parts should be exported formed, not flattened by mistake.
What to check first
Before you upload, make sure the file and part state match the manufacturing route you actually expect.
- Export the real finished body and strip out unrelated assemblies when possible.
- Keep the modeled thickness representative of the purchased material.
- For bent parts, export the formed geometry so bend review has something real to inspect.
What changes the quote
These are the practical factors that usually move cost, routing, or review outcome.
- Flat STEP files can route to laser pricing instead of formed review.
- Formed STEP files drive bend count, weight, and brake-fit checks.
- Bad or incomplete bodies increase the odds of manual review.