From Drawing to Delivery: How a Sheet Metal Export Order Works

By Jessica Cui · Reviewed by Matthew Wu · Last updated 2026-09-20

Every export order follows the same path. Drawings arrive, engineering reviews, samples prove the design, production runs and goods ship. Knowing each stage removes surprises for both sides.

Xinjiuxinji serves overseas buyers directly. Our production base in Nanpi was built in 1999 and is certified to ISO 9001:2015. This article shows how a sheet metal export order works from start to finish.

Stage 1: Drawing Intake and Engineering Review

The order starts when your files arrive.

• Engineers check material, tolerances and manufacturability.
• Questions return to you before quoting, not after tooling.

English-speaking engineers handle technical questions directly. A sheet metal export order moves faster when drawings and answers travel the same channel.

Stage 2: Quotation and Process Plan

You receive a quotation with a process plan attached.

• Material and thickness confirmed.
• Tooling quoted separately from part cost.
• Surface finish and packing stated clearly.
• Delivery week proposed in the quote.

Standard quotations go out within 8 hours on working days.

Stage 3: Sampling

Samples prove the design before mass production.

• Dimensions checked against your drawing.
• Finish reviewed under agreed lighting conditions.
• Photos and video shared before shipment.
• Written approval triggers production.

Sample fees depend on tooling and are quoted in advance.

Stage 4: Production

Production runs on a confirmed schedule with staged checks.

• First-off parts approved before the run starts.
• In-process patrols during the batch.
• Machine time reserved against your delivery week.

Our base runs 40 stamping presses from 80 to 400 tons, two 6 kW laser cutters and five CNC machines. Monthly capacity exceeds 500,000 pieces.

Stage 5: Quality Control and Documents

Quality travels with paperwork.

Inspection covers incoming material, first-off, in-process and final stages. Records stay on file for every batch.

Stage 6: Packing

Export packing protects the finish as much as the part.

• Bubble wrap or pearl cotton for surfaces.
• Foam or EVA inserts for delicate faces.
• Five-layer cartons with edge guards.
• Carton marks and labels per your instruction.

Stage 7: Shipping and After-Sales

The last stage decides the delivery experience.

• Sea, air or express freight chosen by urgency.
• Split shipments supported for phased production.
• Tracking updates shared until delivery.
• Claims reviewed with photos and inspection records.

97.9% of our shipments leave on time. A sheet metal export order should end with a delivery date kept, not an apology.

Stage Timeline Overview

FAQ

Q: What files should I send to start an export order? A: 2D and 3D drawings plus material, quantity, finish and tolerances.

Q: Which documents travel with the goods? A: Packing list, invoice and certificate of conformity. Material certificates and inspection reports are available on request.

Q: Can I split shipment across several dates? A: Yes. Split shipments are standard practice and each batch passes the same checks.

Q: How do I communicate during production? A: Email and WhatsApp work best. Production updates and photos arrive at key stages.