Creating a Clear and Effective Capability Statement for Your CNC Shop

If you're running a CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining shop, you know how competitive the manufacturing world can be. To stand out, you need more than just quality work—you need a professional Capability Statement. This document quickly communicates what your shop can do, your strengths, and why clients should choose you. Let’s walk through how to create an effective Capability Statement tailored specifically for your CNC shop, step by step.

What Is a Capability Statement?

A Capability Statement is a concise document, usually one to two pages, that showcases your company's core competencies, experience, and differentiators. It helps prospects, partners, and government agencies understand your capabilities at a glance. Think of it as your company's business card, but with more detail about your manufacturing skills.

Key Components of a CNC Shop Capability Statement

1. Company Overview

• Company Name: Your shop’s official name.

• Location: Address, including main facility and any other operational sites.

• Contact Information: Phone number, email, website.

• Business Structure: LLC, corporation, sole proprietorship, etc.

2. Core Competencies

• Specify your main manufacturing capabilities, such as:

  • CNC milling and turning

  • Prototype to production runs

  • Material specialization (aluminum, steel, plastics, etc.)

  • Precision tolerances (e.g., ±0.001")

• Be specific to resonate with potential clients searching for your services.

3. Differentiators

• What makes your shop stand out? Examples include:

  • Fast turnaround times

  • ISO certification or industry standards

  • In-house design support

  • Advanced CNC machinery

  • Strong quality control processes

4. Past Performance / Experience

• Highlight notable projects, clients, or industries served (e.g., aerospace, automotive, medical).

• If possible, include brief success stories demonstrating your capabilities.

• Numbers matter—mention project sizes, delivery times, or quality metrics.

5. Certifications and Quality Standards

• List relevant certifications like ISO 9001, AS9100, or NADCAP.

• Explain how these certifications benefit your clients (assurance of quality, compliance).

6. Company Data

• D-U-N-S Number: Essential for government procurement.

• NAICS Codes: List codes relevant to your services (e.g., 332710 - Machine Shops; 333514 - Specializing for CNC Machining).

Sample Capabilities Section for a CNC Shop

Core Competencies:

• Precision CNC milling and turning for metal and plastic components

• Rapid prototyping and short-run production

• Material expertise in aluminum, stainless steel, and plastics

• High-accuracy parts with tolerances of ±0.001"

Differentiators:

• ISO 9001 Certified quality management system

• Average lead time of 2-3 days on standard parts

• In-house CAD/CAM support to help design parts or optimize processes

• State-of-the-art CNC machines from Haas and Fanuc

Putting It All Together

Once you have gathered this information, format it professionally on one or two pages. Use clear headings, bullet points, and avoid jargon. Keep it concise but comprehensive enough to showcase your strengths. Remember, your goal is to quickly tell your story to prospects who might be evaluating multiple shops.

Where to Use Your Capability Statement

• Proposals for government contracts or large corporate clients

• On your website as a downloadable PDF

• In email introductions or marketing materials

Final Tips

• Tailor your Capability Statement for different audiences if needed.

• Keep it up-to-date as your capabilities grow or change.

• Ensure contact info is easy to find—make it simple for prospects to reach you.

Creating a strong Capability Statement is an essential step in marketing your CNC shop and winning new business. Keep it clear, honest, and focused on your strengths—your craftsmanship, precision, and reliability. This document not only tells your story but helps turn inquiries into contracts.