Tradly
  1. How to build a marketplace for custom manufacturing parts?

A Digital Manufacturing Marketplace for Custom Parts

Imagine a digital marketplace that connects clients who need custom parts with vetted manufacturing suppliers. Instead of relying on manual quoting and fragmented sourcing, buyers upload their 3D CAD models or technical drawings directly into the platform. Suppliers then compete in a reverse-auction style to win the work.

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🔑 How It Works

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1. Clients (Buyers)

  • Upload part specifications: CAD file, drawings, materials, tolerances, finishing needs, and quantity.
  • Receive multiple quotes automatically from vetted suppliers.
  • Compare price, lead time, and supplier ratings.
  • Place an order with the selected supplier.

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2. Suppliers (Sellers)

  • Join as verified CNC shops, injection molders, metal fabricators, or additive manufacturers.
  • Get notified of new part requests relevant to their capabilities.
  • Submit competitive bids with pricing and timelines.
  • Build credibility with ratings and repeat customers.

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3. Marketplace Operator (Admin)

  • Approves and vets suppliers (quality checks, certifications, machine capabilities).
  • Manages transactions, dispute resolution, and secure payments.
  • Earns revenue from commissions, subscriptions, or premium visibility for suppliers.

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⚙️ Tradly as the Solution

Tradly’s modular backend allows you to stitch together the marketplace:

  • Accounts & Roles → Separate roles for Buyers and Suppliers.
  • Listings → Each custom part request becomes a “listing” open for bidding.
  • Quoting / Offers → Suppliers submit quotes (reverse-auction style).
  • Order Management → Buyer selects a supplier, order flows into the system.
  • Payments → Integrated gateways (Stripe, PayPal, etc.) handle secure transactions.
  • Ratings & Reviews → Post-order, buyers rate suppliers on quality and delivery.

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🌍 Value Proposition

  • For Buyers: Faster sourcing, better pricing, transparency in supplier capabilities.
  • For Small Shops: Access to a wider customer base, equal chance to win work against larger manufacturers.
  • For the Ecosystem: Trust, verified suppliers, digital workflows replacing slow offline processes.

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💡 Advanced Features

  • AI-powered quoting assistant → Suggests approximate costs instantly before bidding.
  • Supplier matching engine → Routes requests to the best-fit shops based on materials, tolerances, or geography.
  • Workflow integrations → ERP/MRP sync for suppliers, CAD viewer for buyers.
  • Escrow payments → Funds held securely until delivery acceptance.

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💰 Monetization Models

  • Transaction commission (5–15% per order).
  • Supplier subscription plans for bidding access.
  • Featured supplier listings (premium visibility).
  • Value-added services: CAD file checks, prototyping, logistics partnerships.

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📈 Why Now?

  • Global supply chains are shifting — need for localized, agile manufacturing.
  • Buyers demand faster sourcing and transparent pricing.
  • Digital-first platforms like Tradly make launching this marketplace feasible without building from scratch.