Metal buying guides / Ordering
How to Write a Metal Cut List, With a Copyable Template
A cut list tells the supplier what pieces to provide. Give each distinct material, section, or cut size its own row. Include units, quantity, and any work required after cutting.
Updated
Quick answer
Use one row for each material and cut size. Put quantity in its own column, include units, and say whether the dimensions describe the blanks you want delivered or the finished parts. The copyable template below covers both.
A sketch can explain the assembly, but the cut list should still tell the supplier what pieces to provide.
Start with a header
Put the project name, your contact information, the date or revision, and the required handoff date above the list. Say whether the dimensions describe the supplied blanks or the completed parts.
If you update the list, change the revision and identify what changed. A new attachment with the same filename can leave an old dimension in circulation.
Example cut list
The following is an illustrative request for blanks, not a tested assembly or a material recommendation.
On a small screen, scroll the table sideways to see every column.
| Line | Grade and form | Thickness or section, inches | Finished size, inches | Quantity | Work |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | A36 flat bar | 0.250 x 2 | 24 long | 4 | Straight cut |
| B | A36 plate | 0.250 thick | 6 wide x 8 long | 2 | Rectangular blank |
| C | A500 Grade B square tube | 2 x 2 x .120 nominal wall | 18 long | 3 | Straight ends |
For material with a temper, include it with the alloy. For a material that is not settled, write “grade to be confirmed” and explain the application in a custom request. An uncertainty should remain visible until it is resolved.
Copy this into your notes
Project:
Revision and date:
Contact:
Required date:
Pickup or delivery address:
Line / Material and grade / Stock form / Thickness or wall /
Finished width / Finished length / Units / Quantity / Added work
Dimensions describe: supplied blanks OR finished parts
Critical dimensions and allowable variation:
Material documentation required:
Surface or visible-face requirements:
Drawing filename and revision:
Alternatives allowed for review:Use an actual delivery address when checking delivery. “Local” doesn't give enough information to determine an option or a price.
Catch four common ambiguities
First, avoid a bare “4 x 18.” It may describe four pieces at 18 inches or one piece measuring 4 by 18 inches. Put quantity in its own field.
Second, don't combine different lengths on one row. A total length can hide the number of individual cuts and pieces.
Third, identify extra work explicitly. “Mounting plate” doesn't say how many holes it needs, their positions, or whether they are tapped.
Finally, distinguish an allowable alternative from the original requirement. “A36 preferred; discuss alternatives before supplying” is clearer than listing two grades with a slash between them.
Check the list against the drawing
Mark each piece on the drawing as you count it. Confirm repeated sections and left/right parts separately. Then read the list without looking at the drawing: can you still tell what will arrive?
Use the list to configure standard cut-only pieces, or send it with a custom request when material or processing needs review. For a detailed price comparison, see how to compare metal quotes.