Frequently asked questions / FAQ
Are you looking for a modern, efficient solution for the procurement of your individual production parts? Would you like to understand how Digital procurement can optimize your processes and what FACTUREE – The Online Manufacturer offers you in concrete terms? Here you will find answers to your most frequently asked questions and find out everything you need to know about digital manufacturing with us.
What is FACTUREE?
FACTUREE is a digital procurement platform for drawing parts. We facilitate the purchase of individually manufactured components by acting as a single contractual partner between you and a global network of over 2,000 verified manufacturing partners in Germany, Europe and around the world.
What does that mean for you?
- No time-consuming supplier management: we take care of the entire coordination, from the selection of the optimum manufacturer to on-time delivery.
- Maximum flexibility: Whether individual part, prototype or series production - we have the right solution for every requirement.
- Cost savings & fast processing: Thanks to our digital network, we offer you the best prices and efficient processes.
- Technology-supported production: Our AI-supported selection ensures that your order always ends up with the most suitable manufacturing partner.
- Personal service: Despite digital processes, you have a personal contact person to support your procurement.
- Global & nearshoring: Whether global production or targeted nearshoring within Europe - we offer you maximum flexibility and delivery reliability thanks to our international partner network
- Less bureaucracy: FACTUREE takes care of all customs, CBAM and other regulatory requirements - for you, this means less bureaucracy and complete security
How long has FACTUREE been active in the manufacturing industry?
FACTUREE was founded in 2017 and has been active in the manufacturing industry ever since.
Is FACTUREE a marketplace or a software?
FACTUREE is not a marketplace and does not sell software. We are a digital procurement platform that takes care of the entire process for you - from inquiry to delivery. We are not an intermediary, but your strategic partner who takes care of the entire procurement process for you. Whether CNC machining, sheet metal processing, 3D printing or casting processes - with FACTUREE, you have a single contractual partner who organizes everything for you. Efficient, reliable and scalable.
What is the mission/vision of FACTUREE?
FACTUREE's mission is to make the procurement of drawing parts the easiest thing in the world. Our vision is to digitize the manufacturing industry to make the procurement process simpler and more efficient.
Where is FACTUREE's head office located?
The head office of FACTUREE is located in Berlin, Germany. The exact address is: Oudenarder Str. 16, 13347 Berlin.
In which countries does FACTUREE operate?
FACTUREE operates throughout Europe and has a growing number of customers in other European countries. In contrast to a traditional contract manufacturer with a fixed machine park at one location, FACTUREE operates with a huge, digitally networked pool of manufacturing partners.
- Decentralized network: FACTUREE's production network comprises over 2,000 partners based not only in Germany, but also in large parts of Europe. These include specialists in countries such as Austria, the Netherlands, Italy, Portugal and Eastern Europe.
- AI-supported matching: When a customer submits a request, an AI-based algorithm analyzes the requirements (material, complexity, tolerances, delivery time) and identifies the most suitable paver within this network. This happens regardless of the location of the customer or the paver.
- Logistical efficiency: By distributing the manufacturing partners, delivery routes can be optimized and capacity bottlenecks avoided. If one partner fails, another in the network can take over seamlessly, which increases supply chain security for customers throughout Europe.
This model makes FACTUREE international by nature. A customer from France can order via the platform in Berlin, and production could take place at a specialist in northern Italy that has exactly the right technology for the component.
Does FACTUREE manufacture itself?
No, we do not manufacture ourselves. However, we have a large network at our disposal of more than 2,000 audited manufacturing partners who do this for us. In this way, we always have free capacity, can offer short delivery times and can also find the right solution for demanding projects. always the right paver.
How does FACTUREE work?
It's simple: you make your request - we take care of the rest!
- You already have a technical drawing or CAD file? Then upload them conveniently via our request tool or by e-mail.
- No CAD file available? No problem! Our team supports you in the implementation of your procurement - from the creation of the necessary data to the Production-oriented optimization of your components.
- Would you like personal advice? Our experts are available to assist you at any time - by email, telephone or in person. Together, we will find the best solution for your requirements - regardless of whether you are planning a prototype or are already in series production.
FACTUREE is your Sole contractual partner - from inquiry to delivery. The manufacturing partner used does not find out which company is producing for; conversely, the customer receives no information about the manufacturer. Based on your requirements, we select the most suitable manufacturer from our network on the basis of data, take over complete coordination and ensure high-quality, on-time delivery at attractive conditions.
Do I have direct contact with the manufacturing company?
No, you don't have to worry about communicating with the manufacturing company yourself. FACTUREE - The online manufacturer is your sole contractual and contact partner throughout the entire process. We take care of the entire coordination - from supplier selection to on-time delivery. This keeps your procurement process simple, efficient and without additional coordination effort.
What is cwmk GmbH?
cwmk GmbH is the underlying legal identity of FACTUREE and your sole contractual partner. FACTUREE® is a registered trademark of cwmk GmbH.
Will my data be shared with third parties?
No, your data will not be passed on directly to third parties. In contrast to traditional tenders, where technical drawings have to be sent to numerous suppliers, your data will initially remain internal at FACTUREE. We can calculate a price indication in advance - without passing on your information. Only when an order is placed is the production data transmitted to the selected production partner in anonymized form. No conclusions can be drawn about your company or the end product. We also ensure the highest level of technical data security: FACTUREE only uses data centers in Europe that are ISO 27001 certified.
We have sensitive data. How can FACTUREE ensure that they remain protected?
Data security is a top priority at FACTUREE. Thanks to our AI-supported supplier selection, a maximum of three potential manufacturing partners are usually requested for a project. All transmitted data remains anonymous so that no conclusions can be drawn about your company or your product. FACTUREE is currently undergoing the ISO 27001 certification process, which guarantees the highest standards of information security. In addition, all data is stored exclusively in the EU and managed in accordance with the requirements of ISO 27001. Our manufacturing partners are contractually bound to confidentiality by NDAs so that your data is protected at all times. On request, we can provide you with a non-disclosure agreement immediately or develop a customized agreement for your individual requirements. Further information on data protection can be found in our Privacy statement.
How does FACTUREE guarantee the quality of the machined parts when working with many different companies?
Our manufacturing partners undergo a rigorous selection process and are subject to continuous quality control. Manufacturing partners who do not meet our high quality standards are rigorously removed from our network. We also carry out quality control and offer test reports and certificates on request.
How can I get a quote?
Simply use our convenient inquiry form. There you can simply upload the 3D data (.stp/.step) of your parts along with the technical drawings, materials and desired delivery date or product class.
How can I get a quote - even if I don't have 3D models available?
If you do not have CAD drawings or would like individual advice, this is also no problem. You can also send us your request by e-mail or in a personal meeting. Our experts will work with you to find the optimum solution for your procurement - regardless of whether it involves individual prototypes or series production.
What does the target price in the quote tool mean?
What manufacturing processes does FACTUREE offer?
FACTUREE offers a wide range of manufacturing processes for the procurement of drawing parts. This includes state-of-the-art CNC machining processes such as milling and turning in 3- and 5-axis technology as well as complete machining on turn-mill centers. In the field of sheet metal processing, processes such as laser cutting, water jet cutting, plasma cutting, bending, punching and deep drawing are available. The portfolio also includes various additive manufacturing processes, such as FDM, SLS, SLA or MJF, which can be used to implement complex geometries quickly and cost-effectively. For plastic and metal components, FACTUREE also offers casting processes such as injection molding, die casting and vacuum casting, which are suitable for both prototypes and series production. The range is supplemented by a variety of surface treatments - such as anodizing, painting, powder coating or hardening - so that components can not only be manufactured precisely, but also optimally refined and protected.
What materials does FACTUREE offer?
We offer all common steels, aluminum alloys, numerous copper and titanium alloys as well as a variety of plastics. You can find a detailed overview of the materials we offer in our Material overview or in our inquiry form.
What kind of surface treatments does FACTUREE offer?
We offer all common surface treatments such as (hard) anodizing, burnishing, (plasma) nitriding, galvanizing, nickel plating, various hardening processes and laser engraving. An overview of all offered techniques can be found at Surface treatments.
What is the difference between the "Optimum" and "Economy" product classes?
The delivery time for our Optimum product class is usually 9-12 working days (larger quantities and complex parts may take longer). In the Economy category, the delivery time is at least 20 working days, but your foresighted planning and patience will pay off. Greater flexibility in delivery time gives us access to a wider range of manufacturing partners in our pool, resulting in lower competitive prices that we pass on directly to our customers.
Does FACTUREE work with provided materials or parts for re-machining?
Yes, production with provided material is generally possible - but only under certain conditions. We check each case individually, depending on the type of material. Please note that carbide is excluded and will not be accepted as a provided material. Please send us all relevant information about your request so that we can check the feasibility.
What happens in the event of a complaint?
FACTUREE stands for high quality and reliable production. As your sole contractual partner, we take full responsibility for the quality of the parts supplied - regardless of which manufacturing partner carries out the order.
However, should a deviation or problem occur, please get in touch with your personal contact directly. We will quickly analyze the case and always find a solution - be it through repair, replacement or an alternative solution that meets your requirements.
Our quality controls, the selection of certified manufacturing partners and our clear processes ensure that there are no complaints in the first place - and if there are, we deal with them directly.
Can I also become a manufacturing partner with my company?
We are constantly striving to expand our large network even further. Information on how to become a manufacturing partner can be found at manufacturing-partner.
What makes FACTUREE different from other online manufacturers?
No instant pricing - because every request is unique:
We deliberately do not use instant pricing because we know that every request has individual requirements. Even the smallest adjustments can cause significant price differences. Thanks to our AI-supported data analysis, which is based on more than 600,000 production data points per manufacturer, we always identify the optimal supplier for your requirements. In combination with our market knowledge, we always offer you up-to-date and realistic market prices - based on real data, not just historical experience or should-costing models. We are convinced that with our approach we can achieve savings of 20 % across your entire procurement portfolio.
All-in-one: everything from a single source
With FACTUREE, you no longer have to coordinate different suppliers. We take care of the entire procurement process for you - from supplier selection to quality assurance and logistics. You have a single point of contact who takes care of everything for you, while you can concentrate on your core strategic tasks.
The largest production range on the market
FACTUREE offers you by far the broadest manufacturing spectrum in the digital procurement market. From CNC machining, sheet metal processing, casting, 3D printing and injection molding to surface treatments and component assembly - we cover all manufacturing processes and always find the best solution for your specific requirements.
What certifications does FACTUREE have?
FACTUREE is ISO 9001 certified and is currently undergoing the ISO 27001 certification process to ensure the highest standards of information security. We are also AEO-certified (Authorized Economic Operator), which offers advantages in international customs clearance and stands for a particularly reliable and secure supply chain.
Our manufacturing partners fulfill at least ISO 9001 as a standard. For particularly demanding industries, we can also provide IATF 16949-certified manufacturing partners, for example for the automotive industry. If you require further specific certifications, please contact us - we will take your requirements into account and find the right manufacturing partner for your project.
Does FACTUREE only offer prototype production - or series production as well?
FACTUREE takes care of the entire process - from development and prototype production through to series production. For you as a contact partner, this means that you start with us once - and we carry the project through to the end. There is no need to change suppliers or coordinate with new partners. This saves you valuable time, reduces coordination effort and allows you to maintain an overview at all times thanks to a central contact person.
Are there minimum quantities for FACTUREE?
No - with us you can start from batch size 1. Whether it's a single item or a larger series: we deliver exactly what you need.
Can FACTUREE offer tight tolerances such as ±0.01 mm?
Yes, we offer production in accordance with technical drawings - including very tight tolerances of up to ±0.01 mm, for example in the area of CNC machining. If there are restrictions in individual cases, these are documented transparently in the quotation.
Depending on the manufacturing process - e.g. CNC, sheet metal processing or casting - different dimensions and tolerance ranges are possible. Our experts will be happy to advise you individually, including on topics such as DFM consulting or sampling before the start of series production.
What does FACTUREE's AEO certification mean for me as a customer?
The AEO certification (Authorized Economic Operator), which FACTUREE was the first procurement service provider to receive, is an internationally recognized seal of quality from the customs administration. For you as a customer, this means above all
- Faster delivery times: Thanks to simplified and accelerated customs procedures, we can process imports and exports of drawing parts up to 20 percent faster.
- Cost benefits: The efficiency gains lead to average cost benefits of 2-3 percent, which we pass on directly to you.
Increased reliability: The AEO seal is only awarded to companies that meet the strictest criteria in terms of compliance with customs and tax regulations, financial stability and high security standards throughout the supply chain. This underlines our reliability as your international partner and minimizes risks in your procurement processes.
FACTUREE is not a manufacturing company. Why is AEO certification still relevant for the quality of my components?
Although AEO certification is often awarded to manufacturing companies, FACTUREE plays a central role in your global supply chain as a digital manufacturing service provider. We take care of all processes for you from a single source. AEO certification is relevant for the quality and reliability of your component procurement because:
- Efficient supply chains: Faster and smoother customs clearance means fewer potential delays and more reliable planning for your projects.
- Security standards: AEO certification confirms high security standards along the entire supply chain that we manage for you. This also includes the secure handling of your data and components.
- Certified partners: Our network of over 2,000 manufacturing partners is complemented by our certified processes and high standards to ensure consistently high quality and on-time delivery. AEO certification underpins our ability to manage these complex international processes safely and efficiently.
What does the introduction of in-house customs clearance at FACTUREE in Berlin mean for my orders?
The introduction of in-house customs clearance directly at our premises in Berlin is another important step towards offering you, the customer, maximum efficiency and control. In concrete terms, this means for your orders:
- Even faster processing: By managing the customs processes ourselves at our Berlin location, we eliminate dependencies on external service providers. This leads to a further acceleration of import and export processes.
- Maximum control over delivery times: By combining AEO certification with our own customs clearance expertise in Berlin, we have control over this critical process step. This allows us to proactively minimize delays and make delivery times even more reliable.
Direct control and expertise: Our team in Berlin can directly access and process all customs-related processes. This enables us to react flexibly and quickly to any requirements and ensures that you can take full advantage of the international markets without any additional effort on your part.