FAQ

Common questions, straight answers.

Can't find what you're looking for? Email Carter directly at carter@hyper3d.co.nz — happy to talk through the specifics of your project.

Quoting & pricing

How quickly will I get a quote back?

Most quotes are returned within 24 working hours. Simple parts often come back the same day; complex multi-part assemblies may take a little longer because we want the engineering review done properly the first time.

What file formats can I send?

We prefer STEP (.step / .stp) for 3D models — it's the industry standard and works for every process. We also accept IGES, Parasolid (.x_t), SolidWorks, Inventor and Fusion 360 native files. For sheet metal, DXF or DWG flat patterns work well alongside a 3D model.

2D drawings (PDF) are recommended whenever there are critical tolerances, finishes or thread callouts that aren't captured in the 3D file.

Is there a minimum order quantity?

No. We'll machine a single prototype if that's what you need. Pricing scales with quantity — so a single piece will cost more per part than a run of 100 — but there's no MOQ floor.

Do you charge for design-for-manufacturing reviews?

No. DFM feedback is included in every quote. If we spot a feature that will be expensive, hard to inspect or risky for quality, we'll suggest changes before we cut anything.

What payment terms do you offer?

For new customers, we typically work on 50% deposit / 50% on completion for the first project. Established customers usually move to 30-day payment terms. We accept bank transfer in NZD, AUD or USD, and credit card for orders under $5,000.

Production & lead times

What lead time should I expect?

Indicative lead times once we have your approved quote and order:

  • CNC prototypes: 3–7 working days
  • CNC production runs: 2–4 weeks depending on quantity and finishing
  • Sheet metal prototypes: 5–10 working days
  • Injection mould tooling: 2–4 weeks (aluminium) / 4–8 weeks (steel)
  • Moulded production parts: 1–3 weeks once tooling is signed off

Add 2–4 days for delivery to NZ, 3–5 days to Australia.

Can you handle rush orders?

Often yes. Tell us your deadline up front and we'll be honest about what's possible. Express runs typically carry a 20–40% premium to reflect the priority on the production schedule.

Where are the parts manufactured?

We work with a vetted network of partner production facilities to give our customers the right combination of cost, speed and capability for each project. Carter manages every project from New Zealand — that means one accountable point of contact, English-language communication in your timezone, and consistent quality oversight.

Quality & documentation

What inspection documentation do you provide?

Every order ships with a basic dimensional inspection report. On request we can also provide:

  • First Article Inspection (FAI) reports
  • Material certificates of conformity (3.1 mill certs)
  • Surface finish measurements
  • Hardness test results
  • Coating thickness or salt spray test data
  • Photographs of critical features
Are you ISO certified?

Yes. Our manufacturing partner facilities are certified to ISO 9001:2015 (quality management) and ISO 13485:2016 (medical device manufacturing) by accredited third-party auditors. Certificates are available on request under NDA.

How is my IP protected?

We sign a mutual non-disclosure agreement before any drawings change hands. Your designs are not used for any other customer, are not stored beyond the project lifecycle, and are never used to compete with you. We can sign your NDA template or provide ours.

Shipping & logistics

How are parts shipped to NZ and Australia?

Standard shipping is express air freight via DHL or FedEx, door-to-door. Typical transit times are 2–4 days to NZ and 3–5 days to Australia. For larger or repeat orders, sea freight is available with significantly lower per-part shipping cost.

Are customs and duties handled by you?

Yes. Quoted prices land at your door — duties, GST and customs clearance are included unless we agree otherwise. No surprises on the invoice.

Still have a question?

Drop Carter an email or give him a call. Most questions get a real answer within an hour during NZ business hours.