The number of firms offering machining services has increased over the years, which can confuse a client wanting to avail of machining services. Machining firms often take care of this problem by quoting their machining rates on the Internet or via toll free phone lines.

Machining quotes are available for different types of machining techniques such as laser machining, wire electrical discharge machining (EDM), Chemical etching machining, metal stamping machining, water jet machining, and abrasive water jet machining. Quotes are also available for machining different types of materials such as metal, wood, ceramics, carbon fiber, marble, cardboard, soft rubber, plastic, composites, and others.

Machining quotes available on Internet websites are generated with the help of database software that contains detailed information about various machining techniques and their prices according to the type of material being machined. Users just need to select the type of machining and the number of parts required. The software processes this input according to predetermined parameters for generating machining quotes. This allows users to gather information about machining rates offered by different firms and helps them in selecting the firm that offers the most cost effective rates. After getting the customer's approval, quotes are converted into sale orders and the machining process starts after receiving the requisite amount from the customer.

A user can also get quotes via toll free phone lines operated by machining firms. In this case, a customer care representative handles the calls and provides all the information needed by a customer, which includes machining quotes.

Some websites are completely dedicated for providing machining quotes offered by different machining firms. These sites are very popular as users get all the information they need from a single website and can compare quotes offered by different firms. However, it is advised that purchase decisions should not be based solely on price quotes. Past records and reputation of the firm should also be taken into consideration.