Turnkey PCBA RFQ Checklist

The bare-board package: Gerbers or ODB++, drill data, a clear layer map, stackup notes, impedance tables if applicable, surface finish callout, and mechanical drawings. This is the same data a fabrication-only quote needs—see the full Gerber and fabrication-data checklist for the complete list.

The component and placement data: a BOM with manufacturer part numbers and documented alternates, a centroid/pick-and-place file with a stated rotation and origin convention, and an assembly drawing marking polarity and special instructions. See the Gerber, BOM, and pick-and-place file checklist for the detail behind each document.

Because the assembler is procuring components in a turnkey program, the RFQ should state lead-time flexibility (can the program wait on a long-lead part, or does it need an alternate approved in advance), any components already on hand or pre-purchased, and any vendors or part numbers that are specifically excluded for compliance or qualification reasons. Without this, a turnkey quote has to assume worst-case lead time and no flexibility, which inflates both price and schedule.

If some components are consigned (customer-supplied) while others are sourced by the assembler—a common hybrid model—state which reference designators fall into each category explicitly. A partial list with an implied “source the rest” assumption is a frequent source of quote revision after the fact.

State target quantities at more than one break—prototype quantity and a projected production volume—so the quote can reflect setup-cost amortization realistically rather than pricing a single quantity point that does not represent how the program will actually scale. Include test and inspection requirements (AOI is typical by default; state explicitly if X-ray, functional test, or ICT apply) and any documentation deliverables (certificates of conformance, test reports, serialization) your program needs.

Pair this checklist with the PCB assembly cost guide to understand how each of these inputs moves the final number, so the quote you get back can be evaluated against the drivers that produced it rather than treated as an opaque total.