When it comes to sourcing ferrous castings, price is only one part of the picture. Quality, lead time, design suitability and supplier reliability all factor into the total value of a project. A well-prepared RFQ (Request for Quote) saves time, avoids delays, and helps you get an accurate and commercially viable quote.
This guide explains exactly what to include when you request a quote for ferrous casting services – and how to avoid common pitfalls.
Who Are Fowler & Holden?
Based in Grimsby, Fowler & Holden are trusted UK suppliers of high-quality ferrous castings. With over a century of experience, our in-house foundry and machine shop offer a one-stop solution. We work with OEMs, engineers, and procurement teams nationwide to deliver repeatable, precision parts on time and to spec.
Whether you need one-off prototypes or regular batch runs, we help clients upload casting drawings securely, assess costs accurately, and meet deadlines confidently.
Why Requesting a Quote Isn’t Just About Cost
It’s tempting to base decisions on headline prices. But casting is a complex process. Two quotes with identical specs may differ in quality, lead time, service, and reliability. That’s why it’s vital to request a full breakdown, not just a unit price.
At Fowler & Holden, we treat every RFQ as a technical collaboration. We aim to understand your intended use, identify potential risks, and optimise cost over the project’s full life cycle.
A comprehensive quote should answer:
- Can your component be produced reliably in iron?
- Are your drawings suitable for casting?
- What are the tooling, material, and finishing implications?
- How does casting cost vary with volume?
- What is the expected casting lead time?
What You Should Include in Your RFQ
The more complete your request, the faster and more accurately we can quote. At minimum, your RFQ should include:
1. A clear technical drawing
We prefer you upload casting drawing files in PDF or STEP format. They must show all dimensions, tolerances, and material specifications.
2. Casting volume
Whether it’s 1, 10 or 1,000 units, indicate the quantity required. If you’re unsure, ask us to quote across multiple batch sizes.
3. Required material grade
Specify whether you need grey iron, SG iron, Ni-Hard, or another grade. If you don’t know, we can recommend the right grade based on the application.
4. Tolerances and surface finish
Casting tolerances affect price and lead time. Be realistic – tighter tolerances often require extra machining.
5. Required certifications
If you need castings to meet EN or ASTM standards, or if you require BSI/Kitemark compliance, let us know upfront.
6. Deadlines or delivery windows
Casting lead time varies based on volume, tooling, and workload. If you have a strict deadline, include it.
Lead Times, Tolerances & Volume Guidance
Ferrous casting lead times in the UK can vary. At Fowler & Holden, our typical lead time is 3-4 weeks. However, this can be shorter or longer depending on the following factors:
1. Tooling readiness
If we’ve cast this item before, we may have tooling ready. If not, allow time for pattern making.
2. Volume of parts
Larger batches benefit from economies of scale, but also need more planning. We can advise on the most efficient batch sizes.
3. Machining and finishing requirements
If your part needs post-casting CNC machining or coating, this adds to the timeline. Fowler & Holden offers both casting and machining in-house to streamline this.
4. Tolerances
Standard casting tolerances for grey or ductile iron are ±1.5mm. Tighter tolerances require machining, which increases both cost and time.
We aim to be transparent on what’s realistic. Our quoting process ensures you’re not left with gaps between expectation and reality.
Hidden Factors That Affect Casting Cost
When comparing UK casting quotes, don’t just compare the unit cost. Here are a few elements that often catch buyers out:
1. Tooling and pattern cost
First-time castings often need a pattern. We’ll quote this separately so you know what’s reusable and what’s amortised over your order.
2. Import duties and freight
Working with overseas suppliers might look cheaper upfront – until you account for delays, customs fees, and rework from quality issues.
3. Revisions
If your drawing isn’t castable as-is, revisions or engineering tweaks might be needed. We’ll flag this in your quote.
4. Machine time
Need precise bores, tapped holes or machined faces? We’ll quote this with your casting so you know the true end-to-end cost.
5. Certifications and inspection reports
If you need documentation like 3.1 material certs or pressure test results, it affects quote complexity.
Understanding these variables helps you interpret and compare quotes more accurately.
What Sets Fowler & Holden Quotes Apart
We’re not the only iron foundry in the UK – but we are one of the few with casting, machining and quality control under one roof.
Here’s what makes our quotes different:
1. Precision from day one
We interrogate your drawings, materials, and use case – so the quote reflects what’s really needed.
2. Transparent pricing
We break down costs clearly, with no hidden extras. If we think something is over-specified, we’ll tell you.
3. In-house machining
Unlike many foundries, we can cast and machine your part in one facility, reducing transport costs and lead timesFowler and Holden Actio…
4. Rapid turnaround
We aim to return quotes within 48 hours – and we’ll flag any potential issues before they become delays.
5. Easy RFQ process
Use our online form to upload casting drawings, select materials, and input your requirements. We’ll handle the rest.
6. Real collaboration
We don’t just send quotes. We support you through every stage of your buying process – especially if you’re new to castings.
FAQs
How do I upload casting drawings to Fowler & Holden?
Use our contact form to upload PDFs, STEP files or CAD drawings. Our engineers will review them as part of your quote.
What is the average casting cost in the UK?
Casting cost in the UK depends on volume, tooling, material and tolerances. We quote transparently, including pattern and machining costs.
What is the typical casting lead time?
Our lead time is usually 3-4 weeks but varies based on pattern availability, batch size, and post-processing.
Can Fowler & Holden help me choose the right grade of iron?
Yes. We work with SG iron, grey iron, and Ni-Hard. If you’re unsure, we’ll recommend a grade that suits your application and budget.
Use Our RFQ Form to Get a Casting Quote Within 48 Hours
If you’re ready to request a quote for ferrous casting services, visit our RFQ page.
You can upload casting drawing files, specify materials and tolerances, and we’ll get back to you within 48 hours with a detailed, no-obligation quote:
Contact us
Call: +44 (0)1472 355 316
Email: admin@fowlerandholden.co.uk
