Tooling, samples & first article

Samples and first article inspection approved before the batch runs, with tooling ownership written into the order.

This is where most sourcing problems are created — and where they can still be fixed cheaply.

  • Tooling and fixture ownership stated in the purchase order: who owns it, where it is stored, who may use it
  • Sample plan agreed before tooling starts
  • First article inspection report against your drawing, with photographs
  • Revisions tracked with revision numbers on the drawing

Nothing enters batch production until the first article is signed off — by you, not by us.

Related case studies

Battery swap station frames for a Serbian EPC contractor

Three sample reworks with the previous supplier — first article approved first time, batch delivered on schedule.

First article approved first time

Send us a drawing

A STEP file, a PDF or a photograph of the part is enough. You will get a shortlist, an itemised comparison and a realistic timeline within 48 hours.