A complete PCBA quote depends on more than quantity alone. To calculate PCB fabrication, component sourcing, assembly and testing costs accurately, the manufacturer needs a clear and consistent set of production files.
Providing the right information at the beginning helps reduce technical questions, prevents quotation errors and shortens the time from inquiry to production. The checklist below explains the main files and project details you should prepare before requesting a PCBA quote.
Gerber Files for PCB Fabrication
Gerber files contain the manufacturing data required to fabricate the bare PCB. A complete package normally includes the copper layers, solder mask, silkscreen, board outline and drill files.
Before sending the files, confirm the PCB dimensions, layer count, material, board thickness, copper weight, surface finish and solder mask color. If these requirements are not included in the Gerber package, list them separately in the RFQ.
Bill of Materials (BOM)
The BOM identifies every component required for assembly. It should be supplied in Excel or CSV format and include the reference designator, manufacturer part number, description, package or footprint and required quantity.
Avoid using only generic descriptions such as “10 kΩ resistor” or “capacitor.” Exact manufacturer part numbers help the sourcing team check availability, lead time and pricing. If approved alternatives are allowed, indicate them clearly. Also identify any customer-supplied, do-not-fit or non-soldering parts.
Pick-and-Place File
The pick-and-place file, sometimes called a centroid or XY file, provides the component coordinates, rotation, reference designators and board side. It allows the engineering team to prepare SMT placement data accurately.
Make sure the reference designators match the BOM and assembly drawing. If the project includes a panel, clarify whether the coordinates are based on a single PCB or the full panel. Inconsistent coordinates or rotations may require additional engineering confirmation before production.
Assembly Drawings and Special Instructions
Assembly drawings show component locations, polarity, orientation and any parts that require special handling. Clear PDF drawings are especially useful for connectors, LEDs, ICs, electrolytic capacitors and through-hole components.
Include instructions for selective soldering, hand soldering, conformal coating, glue, heat sinks, wires, enclosures or mechanical assembly when applicable. Mark any do-not-fit positions clearly and ensure they match the BOM.
Order Quantity and Build Requirements
State the required quantity for each PCB revision and clarify whether the quantity refers to individual boards or panels. If you need pricing at several volume levels, list each quantity separately so the quotation can show the correct price breaks.
Also confirm whether you require bare PCBs, partially assembled boards or turnkey PCBA production. For turnkey projects, indicate whether the manufacturer should source all components or whether some parts will be supplied by the customer.
Testing, Programming and Quality Requirements
If programming or functional testing is required, provide the firmware, programming method, test procedure and acceptance criteria. When a dedicated test fixture is needed, include the relevant interface details and clarify whether an existing fixture is available.
Also specify inspection or documentation requirements such as AOI, X-ray inspection, first article approval, serial numbers, QR codes, test records or production traceability. These requirements can affect both cost and lead time, so they should be included before quotation.
PCBA Quote Checklist
- Gerber files and drill files
- PCB specifications and required surface finish
- Complete BOM with manufacturer part numbers
- Pick-and-place or centroid file
- Assembly drawings and polarity information
- Order quantity and required build type
- Programming files and test instructions
- Inspection, traceability and documentation requirements
- Target delivery date and shipping destination
Ready to Request a PCBA Quote?
A well-prepared RFQ helps the engineering and sourcing teams review your project faster and provide a more accurate quotation. Keep all files under the same revision and place them in one clearly named ZIP package before sending.
MG PCBA supports prototype, pilot-run and low- to mid-volume PCBA production, including PCB fabrication, component sourcing, SMT and THT assembly, inspection and testing. Submit your project details through our Request a PCBA Quote page, and our team will review the files and follow up with any technical questions.