Repeat order

A repeat order is an order for a part that has already been manufactured before, typically for the same customer, at the same or a similar revision. Because the routing, programming, tooling and cost estimate largely already exist from the prior order, a repeat order is usually faster and cheaper to quote and produce than a first-time order.

Why a repeat order isn't priced like a new part

A repeat order's cost should mainly reflect production time and material, since the upfront work preparation, programming and estimation are largely already done, which is why treating it as equivalent to a brand-new part's cost structure overstates its true cost.

Where repeat-order status is identified

Not on the drawing; it's identified by matching a new order against a factory's history of previously produced parts, typically via the ERP system.

Common mistakes

Re-doing full work preparation and estimation for a repeat order as if it were new, missing the cost and time savings that reusing the existing routing and program should provide.

Is a repeat order always identical to the original?

Not necessarily; a repeat order can still involve minor revisions, which is why checking against the specific prior revision matters (see revision order).

Why is a repeat order usually cheaper?

Because the routing, programming and tooling largely already exist, reducing what production time and cost actually entail versus a first-time order.

How is a repeat order identified?

Usually by matching a new order against a factory's production history, typically in the ERP system, for the same or a very similar part.