FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about our manufacturing services, MOQ, lead times and shipping.
What is your Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)?
MOQ varies by part complexity. For standard CNC machined parts, MOQ starts at 100 pieces. For custom die casting or injection molding, MOQ is typically 1,000 pieces. We can accommodate smaller pilot runs for new product development — please contact our sales team.
Do you ship internationally and can you handle export documentation?
Yes. We export to 50+ countries across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. We handle all standard export documentation including commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and can coordinate with your nominated freight forwarder or arrange DDP/DDU shipping.
What is the typical lead time for a custom order?
Lead times depend on part complexity, material availability, and quantity. Samples: 7 to 15 days. Mass production: 25 to 45 days for most machined parts. We provide a detailed production schedule with milestones after order confirmation so you can plan inventory accordingly.
What file formats do you accept for RFQ?
We accept 3D models in STEP (.stp / .step), IGES (.igs / .iges), Parasolid (.x_t), SolidWorks (.sldprt) and Fusion 360 (.f3d). For 2D drawings we accept PDF and DWG/DXF. If you only have a physical sample, our engineering team can reverse-engineer it (additional cost, quoted on a case-by-case basis).
Do you provide material certificates and inspection reports?
Yes. Every shipment includes: (1) Mill certificate / material certificate (EN 10204 3.1) for the raw material used, (2) Dimensional inspection report with CMM data for first article and critical features, (3) Surface finish test report if specified, and (4) Certificate of Conformance. We can also provide First Article Inspection (FAI / PPAP) reports for automotive and aerospace customers.
What IP / NDA protection do you offer before I share my drawings?
We routinely sign NDAs before receiving customer drawings. Our standard NDA covers (a) confidentiality of all drawings and specifications, (b) restriction on use to the quoted project only, (c) no manufacture for third parties without written consent, and (d) return or destruction of drawings at project end. We are happy to use your custom NDA instead of ours if preferred. Manufacturing drawings are stored in a secure project folder accessible only to the assigned engineering team.
Can you handle rush / expedited orders?
Yes — for active customers and on a slot-availability basis. Rush lead time is typically 30-50% of standard. Common rush scenarios: prototype in 5-7 days, small-batch production in 15 days, or hot-fix replacement parts in 10 days. Rush orders incur a 15-25% surcharge. Contact us with your deadline and we will tell you honestly whether we can meet it.
Do you ship DDP / DAP / handle customs clearance?
Yes. We offer DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) to most major markets via our European and US logistics partners — you pay one price, we deliver to your dock with all customs duties and brokerage handled. We also offer DAP (Delivered At Place, you handle import) and FOB Shanghai / EXW for customers with their own freight forwarders. Air freight typically 3-5 days Europe / 2-3 days US East Coast; sea freight 28-35 days to most major ports.
What warranty and after-sales support do you offer?
Every ApexForge machine ships with a 24-month mechanical warranty and 12-month electrical warranty. Warranty includes on-site service engineer dispatch from our nearest regional hub (Hamburg, Houston, São Paulo, Dubai, Lagos, Moscow, Istanbul, Mumbai, Bangkok, Jakarta, Mexico City, Nairobi) for warranty failures. After the warranty period, we offer annual maintenance contracts and on-demand service. Spare parts are stocked at every regional hub.