Define start and stop points and the required deliverables. For example: (1) start = PO receipt plus receipt/approval of a complete drawing/CAD package; (2) stop = ship date with specified items included (e.g., conforming parts, CoC, material certs, HIP/heat-treat certs, NDE reports, FAI/AS9102). Require a route traveler with gated milestones (build release, print complete, post-process complete, inspection complete) and specify whether lead time is calendar days or business days and whether it includes government source inspection or customer acceptance.

Require CT when internal geometry or defect detectability cannot be adequately verified by external inspection or other NDE (e.g., internal channels, lattice structures, or fatigue-critical zones where volumetric discontinuities matter). To avoid open-ended delays, scope CT in the RFQ: regions of interest, minimum feature size to resolve (voxel size), acceptance criteria (porosity/LOF limits by zone if applicable), and whether CT is for qualitative verification or quantitative measurement. Align on sample rate (100% vs first article vs periodic) and whether CT data deliverables are images only, full volume data, or a summary report.

Provide a complete 2D drawing with GD&T, clearly identified datums tied to functional interfaces, and notes distinguishing as-printed versus machined surfaces. Identify critical-to-function features (sealing, bearing fits, hole position, flatness) and specify where machining stock is allowed/required. If thin walls or distortion risk exists, allow realistic profile tolerances or define inspection at a controlled condition (e.g., after stress relief/HIP and finish machining). Include preferred inspection method when needed (CMM vs scan) and any constraints on fixturing or part orientation during inspection.