If you’ve ever tried to get a custom part made — CNC machined, 3D printed, or otherwise — you’ve probably come across platforms like Xometry or Protolabs.

And they do serve a purpose. You upload your CAD file, get a price, and parts arrive a few days later. But for many engineers, builders, and startups, that’s where the convenience ends — and the limitations begin.

At Ziqual, we’re doing things differently. We built Ziqual because we saw something missing: a way to connect directly with real manufacturers, without the black-box layer in between.

Here’s what makes us different.

1. Real Connections — Not Middlemen

When you order through Xometry or Protolabs, you rarely know who’s actually making your part. Your files go into a system, and the platform chooses the shop. That might be fine for a quick prototype, but what about when you need to iterate? Or scale?

With Ziqual, you get multiple quotes from real machine shops. You see who you’re working with. You can build a relationship, not just a transaction.

We’re not trying to sit between you and your manufacturer forever. We help you connect, and then we step aside.

2. We Help You Go Beyond Prototyping

Most platforms are great at turning around a quick prototype. But when you're ready to go into small-batch production — or want to lock in a supplier who can support you long-term — you're stuck. You can't scale through a black box.

Ziqual is built for continuity.
You can start with a one-off, then keep working with the same shop if it makes sense. Or find another one better suited for scale. We don’t gatekeep that relationship.

3. Talk to Your Technician

Ever had a part rejected because of a vague DFM rule? Or gotten something that met spec but missed the spirit of your design?

Sometimes, a 30-second conversation with a machinist would solve everything.

That’s why Ziqual gives you the option to communicate.
Clarify a tolerance. Ask about a surface finish. Collaborate.

You're not just uploading a file into the void — you're talking to people who actually make things.

4. A Platform That Supports Shops of All Sizes

There are amazing machine shops out there — highly skilled, highly responsive, and often under the radar. But many of them can’t or won’t work with platforms that demand rigid processes, tight turnaround windows, or fixed pricing schemes.

Ziqual opens the door.
We give those shops a voice. If they can meet your specs and timeline, they can quote the job.

That means more options for you, and more access for skilled manufacturers.

We’re Building a Human-Centered Manufacturing Platform

We’re not here to replace manufacturers — we’re here to amplify them.
We’re not here to hide them behind a brand — we’re here to connect them with the people who need their skills.

So if you’re a founder, an engineer, a procurement lead, or just someone trying to get a good part made — we built Ziqual for you.

Try it out at ziqual.com.
Let’s build something better.