Bulk Order Example: Stable Monthly Delivery of 20,000 CNC Aluminum Parts

A Real Factory Story — From Inquiry to Steady Supply

I still remember the first message we received from a European client two years ago:

“Can your factory handle a consistent monthly order of 20,000 aluminum CNC parts?”

It wasn’t the quantity that made us pause — it was the stability and precision behind that question. Large-scale CNC aluminum production isn’t just about having enough machines; it’s about process control, scheduling, and repeatable accuracy over months of continuous supply.

At that time, the client was switching from a supplier who couldn’t maintain consistent dimensions and on-time delivery. The challenge was clear: we needed to prove that mass CNC machining can be both stable and precise, without compromising efficiency or cost.

Step 1: Process Setup and First Article Approval

Before mass production began, we carried out a detailed machining capability study. The component was a 6061-T6 aluminum housing with ±0.02 mm tolerance on bore diameter.

We created a pilot batch of 50 samples using our 5-axis machining center (Brother SPEEDIO R650X2) and implemented a tool wear compensation program that auto-adjusts offsets after every 300 pieces.

✅ Measured results (based on 50 samples):

This real data convinced the client’s QA team. The first article approval was completed within three days.

Step 2: Building a Stable Monthly Delivery System

Once quality was confirmed, the next challenge was production stability.
For a monthly volume of 20,000 pcs, we divided the process into three sections:

1. CNC Machining Line (10 machines) — Operating in two shifts.

2. In-process Inspection Station — Real-time SPC monitoring using Mitutoyo digital gauges.

3. Automatic Packaging & Barcoding — Ensuring each lot is traceable.

By setting up a rolling production plan, we maintained a 3-day safety stock to prevent delivery gaps.
Using ERP system tracking, both our production and the client’s purchasing team could view live updates — from machining status to shipment booking.

Result: On-time delivery rate reached 99.3% across 18 consecutive months.

Step 3: Cost Optimization Through Process Refinement

During the third production cycle, we analyzed tool life and machining time data.
By switching from carbide inserts to a TiAlN-coated end mill, we reduced cycle time by 7 seconds per part — saving approximately 39 hours per month in total machine time.

✅ Key optimization outcomes:

• Tool change frequency: ↓ 25%

• Machining cost per part: ↓ 6.8%

• Scrap rate: <0.3%

For the client, that meant a smoother supply chain and consistent pricing, even as aluminum raw material costs fluctuated globally.

Step 4: Packaging, Export, and Delivery

To ensure quality during shipping, all parts were vacuum-packed and layered with anti-oxidation film before being placed in custom foam trays.
Each carton carried a QR code label linking to the batch inspection report and shipment data.

We partnered with DHL and a China-Europe railway logistics provider to ensure average lead time of 12 days to Germany and 9 days to the Netherlands.

Why This Matters for Buyers

If you’re sourcing CNC aluminum parts in bulk, here are a few takeaways from this project:

• Ask for real process data (Cpk, tool wear charts, SPC results). It tells you how stable the supplier truly is.

• Evaluate capacity, not just capability. Having 50 CNC machines means little without an organized scheduling system.

• Request a pilot batch before full production. It minimizes risk and aligns QC standards early.

In short, a reliable CNC supplier isn’t just about cutting metal — it’s about managing consistency, cost, and trust month after month.

Technical Summary