Start with the scope, not just a photograph
A reference image is useful for communicating the intended appearance. It does not define panel sizes, metal thickness, fixing details or the quantity to be manufactured. Pair it with a short scope description: what needs to be supplied, where it will be used and which elements are excluded. Identify whether your drawings are a concept, tender issue or approved fabrication information.
Put the drawings and schedule together
Include plans, elevations and sections where available, with units, drawing numbers and revision dates. A simple component schedule should identify each item, its dimensions, quantity, material and finish. Highlight corners, openings, visible joints and interfaces with other trades. Mark dimensions that still require a site survey rather than treating them as final.
Explain the project conditions
Tell the fabricator the destination country, whether the components are for interior or exterior use, the installation environment and the target delivery window. Attach the applicable project specification and any required test or certification criteria. Structural design, fire performance and local compliance must be reviewed by the responsible project professionals; photographs are not evidence of those properties.
Make commercial comparisons like for like
Ask quotations to identify inclusions, exclusions, packing assumptions and the delivery basis. Freight, duties, installation, testing, samples and shop drawings may be separate items. Compare the same drawing revision and quantities across suppliers. A low unit price cannot be compared meaningfully until the scope and finish are aligned.
A practical first enquiry
Send a scope summary, one current drawing set and your quantity schedule. Include a finish reference and your target delivery location. If information is incomplete, list what is still undecided so the initial response can distinguish an indicative discussion from a production-ready quotation. Use our project brief below to collect these details.