What to Send for a Custom Thermoforming Quote — Shirley K’s
What to Send for a Custom Thermoforming Quote
Getting a fast, accurate quote for a custom thermoforming project starts with providing the right information upfront. This checklist tells you exactly what to prepare before submitting the Custom Project Form
REQUIRED INFORMATION
1. Part Description
Describe what the part is, what it does, and what it will be used for. Even a plain-language description helps — you don’t need to know thermoforming terminology.
Examples:
- “A flat tray approximately 18 x 12 inches for holding electronic components during assembly”
- “A cover for the top of a pump housing, approximately 24 x 16 inches”
- “An enclosure bottom for a handheld instrument”
2. Target Material
If you know the required material, specify it. If not, describe the performance requirements (temperature range, chemical exposure, required rigidity, food contact needs) and we will suggest options.
Common materials we work with:
- HDPE
- ABS
- Kydex
- HIPS
- PETG
- Acrylic
- PC
3. Estimated Quantity
Provide an estimated annual quantity and a per order quantity. This helps determine whether thermoforming is the right process and influences tooling design.
4. Target Timeline
When do you need parts? When does tooling need to be complete? Understanding your timeline helps us prioritize and plan.
PREFERRED FILES (INCLUDE WHAT YOU HAVE)
If you have any of the following, include them in your submission:
- CAD files (STEP, IGES, STL, or DWG are commonly accepted — contact Shirley K’s to confirm currently accepted formats for your specific file type)
- Engineering drawings (PDF format preferred)
- Photos or sketches of the part or a similar reference part
- Physical sample (you can mail a part to us for reverse engineering evaluation)
Note: You do NOT need CAD files to get started. If you have a physical part, we can evaluate it for reverse engineering. Even a rough sketch or photo is helpful.
HELPFUL BUT OPTIONAL
- Current supplier name (if you are transferring a program)
- Existing tooling information (if you want to transfer a tool)
- Finish requirements (color, texture, surface finish)
- Dimensional tolerances if critical
- Special requirements (chemical resistance, temperature range, food contact)
TOOL TRANSFER REQUESTS
If you want to transfer an existing thermoforming tool to Shirley K’s, include:
- Tool dimensions (approximate)
- Material the tool is designed for
- Current part run rate / production volume
- Current supplier name and location (for logistics planning)
- Any known tool condition issues
REVERSE ENGINEERING REQUESTS
If you have a physical part but no tooling documentation:
- Mail the part to: Shirley K’s, 1150 Newark Road, Zanesville, OH 43701
- Include a note describing what you need
- We will evaluate the part and follow up with questions and a quote
SUBMIT YOUR REQUEST
Open Custom Project Form /custom-project-form/
Call: (740) 868-8140
Email: orders@shirleyks.com