File
Guidelines

Overview

Sending us the right files upfront saves time and avoids back-and-forth. This page covers every accepted format, what information to include alongside your files, and how to get them to us. If you don't have files yet — that's fine, too. Send a brief description and we'll figure it out from there.

Accepted 3D File Formats

Preferred (most information preserved):

• STEP (.step / .stp) — Universal solid geometry. The preferred format for any CNC or DFM work. Export from any CAD tool.
• SolidWorks (.sldprt / .sldasm) — Native SolidWorks parts and assemblies. Includes full feature tree.
• Fusion 360 (.f3d / .f3z) — Native Autodesk Fusion 360 format. Share via Fusion's cloud export.

Also accepted:

• IGES (.igs / .iges) — Surface and solid geometry. Good fallback when STEP isn't available.
• STL (.stl) — Accepted for reference geometry or 3D print review. Not ideal for machining — surface information only, no parametric data.
• Parasolid (.x_t / .x_b) — Native Siemens format, common from NX and Solid Edge.
• CATIA (.CATPart / .CATProduct) — Accepted if you're working in a CATIA environment.

Note: STL files are acceptable for visual reference, but STEP is strongly preferred for any part intended for CNC machining. Mesh-based formats cannot carry tolerances or material assignments.

Accepted 2D & Drawing Formats

• DXF (.dxf) — Standard 2D CAD interchange. Ideal for flat cut profiles, toolpaths, and laser/router geometry.
• DWG (.dwg) — AutoCAD native. Accepted for 2D drawings and layouts.
• PDF (.pdf) — Engineering drawings with dimensional callouts, GD&T notes, and finishing specifications. Use vector PDF where possible; scanned PDFs are accepted but less precise.

If you have a technical drawing (even hand-drawn), include it — tolerances, surface finishes, and critical dimensions on a drawing will always take precedence over what's implied by the 3D geometry alone.

Reference & Concept Files

For early-stage projects or design consultations, these are all valid inputs:

• Images (.jpg / .png) — Reference photos, inspiration, hand sketches photographed, mood boards
• PDF sketches — Scanned sketches, annotated diagrams, concept sheets
• Video — Short clips demonstrating a mechanism, fit, or motion requirement. Share via a link (YouTube, Google Drive, Dropbox) rather than attaching directly.
• Written brief — A clear written description in the contact form is always a valid starting point, even without any files attached.

What to Include With Your Files

The more context you provide, the more accurate our quote and timeline will be. Where applicable, include:

• Material — What material should the part be made from? (e.g., 6061 aluminum, HDPE, mild steel, ABS) If undecided, note any constraints (hardness, weight, food-safe, outdoor use).
• Tolerances — What are the critical dimensions that must hit exact measurements? General tolerances vs. precision fits vs. press fits all affect machining approach and cost.
• Surface finish — As-machined, bead blast, anodized, powder coated, polished? Note any Ra requirements if known.
• Quantity — Number of parts needed. Unit quantity vs. production run changes the approach significantly.
• Timeline — When do you need it? If there's a hard deadline, say so upfront so we can confirm availability before scoping.
• Assembly context — Is this part mating with something else? If so, include the mating part or a drawing showing the interface.
• Use case — What is the part for? Structural load, aesthetic display, functional prototype, one-time use? This affects design and material recommendations.

File Naming

Clear file names save time. Use descriptive names that identify the part, version, and format:

• Good: bracket-mount-v3.step
• Good: housing-top-drawing-r1.pdf
• Avoid: file001.stp, untitled.step, FINAL_FINAL_v2.dxf

If sending multiple files, zip them into a single archive named after the project: projectname-files.zip

How to Submit

Small files (under 25 MB total): Attach directly to the project brief form on the homepage.

Large files (over 25 MB): Upload to a cloud storage service and paste the share link in the project brief or email it to multiaxyz@icloud.com. We accept links from:

• Google Drive
• Dropbox
• WeTransfer
• OneDrive
• Any publicly accessible link

If your files are confidential, request an NDA before sending. We take client confidentiality seriously — see our Terms of Service for details.

After You Submit

Once we receive your files and project brief:

• We'll review everything within 24–48 hours
• If we need clarification or additional information, we'll reach out
• We'll send back a detailed response with scope, timeline, and a fixed quote
• Work begins after written confirmation and deposit

You'll receive a confirmation email at the address you submitted in the form. If you don't hear back within 48 hours, check your spam folder or email us directly at multiaxyz@icloud.com.

Questions