Turnkey vs Consignment PCB Assembly: Which Is Right for You?

When you outsource PCB assembly, the first decision is whether to buy turnkey – where the factory sources components and assembles everything – or consignment, where you supply the parts yourself. Both models work, but they suit different projects.

Turnkey assembly

In turnkey assembly the manufacturer manages the BOM, sources components, assembles the boards and ships tested units. You provide the Gerber, BOM and requirements; one team owns the whole route from bare board to delivery.

• One quotation and one point of contact
• Factory handles availability, alternates and incoming control
• Best for teams without a dedicated supply chain

Consignment assembly

You purchase and ship the components; the factory assembles and tests. This can make sense when you already hold inventory or have negotiated component pricing.

• You control component cost and inventory
• More coordination and inbound logistics on your side
• Shortages and incoming inspection become your responsibility

How to choose

For most prototypes and small-to-medium volumes, turnkey is faster and lowers coordination risk. KGPCBA supports both, with BOM sourcing and incoming control handled against your project revision. Talk through your BOM and volumes to pick the right model for your PCB assembly program.