How Much Does CNC Machining Cost?

A quote for CNC machined parts is determined by the following factors:

Machining time: The longer it takes to machine a part, the more expensive it is. Machining time is often the main cost driver in CNC, especially for large-scale productions where simple design mistakes can hurt economies of scale.

Start-up costs: Related to computer-aided design (CAD) file preparation and process planning, start-up costs are significant for smaller volumes. Fortunately, they are also fixed. If the design and the surface finish are suitable for cost scaling, you can lower the unit price by applying economies of scale principles.

Other manufacturing costs: To define tight tolerances or design parts with features that are difficult to CNC machine (e.g. very thin walls), you may need special tooling, closer quality control, and more processing steps at lower machining speed. This also impacts total manufacturing time and cost.

Material cost: The price of the bulk material and the ease with which that material can be machined greatly affect the overall cost in CNC. Optimizing your design while carefully considering your material can reduce costs.