In – Depth Analysis: How Much Does It Cost to CNC a Part?

$20–$5,500

Per Part Range

30–50%

Machining Time

25–40%

Material Cost

20–40%

Potential Savings

Key Findings

• Machining time represents 30-50% of total costs
• Material costs vary 50x between plastics and titanium
• Economies of scale reduce per-unit costs by 30-60%
• DFM optimization can save 20-40% on average

2026 Trends

• AI programming reduces setup time by 10-15%
• Titanium prices up 8-12% YoY due to aerospace demand
• 5-axis machining adoption increasing for complex parts
• Sustainability requirements adding 5-10% to material costs

Material Costs (25-40%)

Raw material costs include the material itself plus waste allowance (typically 10-30% depending on part geometry).

Material selection is one of the most impactful cost decisions. Choosing the right material for your application can significantly reduce costs.

Machining Time (30-50%)

Machine time is calculated based on hourly rates multiplied by the total machining time required for the part.

Machining time depends on part complexity, material machinability, and cutting parameters. Optimizing tool paths can reduce time by 15-30%.

Labor Costs (15-25%)

Labor includes programming, setup, monitoring, and quality control. Skilled CNC operators command higher wages.

Automation and AI programming are reducing labor costs by 10-15% annually as technology advances.

Setup Costs (5-15%)

Setup includes fixturing, tooling, and machine preparation. These costs are amortized over the production run.

Modular fixturing systems can reduce setup time by 40-60% for repeat orders.

Complex geometries with multiple features, deep pockets, and tight tolerances significantly increase machining time and cost.

Design simplification can reduce costs by 20-50% while maintaining functionality.

Tighter tolerances require slower feeds, more precise machines, and additional quality control.

Specifying only the tolerances you truly need can save significant costs.

Economies of scale significantly reduce per-unit costs for larger production runs.

Consolidating orders or planning for future needs can leverage volume discounts.

Material cost and machinability have a profound impact on total costs.

Choosing the right material for your application balance performance and cost.

Total Cost = (Material Cost + Machining Cost + Setup Cost) × Quantity + Shipping

Step 1: Material Cost Calculation

1. Calculate part volume from CAD model
2. Multiply by material density to get weight
3. Multiply by material price per unit weight
4. Add scrap allowance (10-30%)

Step 2: Machining Time Estimation

1. Analyze part geometry and features
2. Estimate cutting time for each feature
3. Add tool change and non-cutting time
4. Calculate total cycle time per part

Step 3: Setup and Labor Costs

1. Estimate programming time (2-8 hours)
2. Calculate setup time (1-16 hours)
3. Add quality control and inspection time
4. Multiply by labor rates

Step 4: Final Cost Calculation

1. Sum all cost components
2. Apply quantity discounts if applicable
3. Add shipping and handling costs
4. Include any additional services (finishing, certification)

• Simplify part geometry where possible
• Use standard tolerances unless critical
• Design for minimal tool changes
• Avoid deep pockets and small internal radii

• Choose the most cost-effective material that meets requirements
• Consider aluminum over titanium where possible
• Use plastics for non-structural components
• Optimize material utilization to reduce waste

• Consolidate orders to reach economic batch sizes
• Plan for future needs to leverage volume discounts
• Use inventory management to optimize ordering
• Consider offshore manufacturing for cost savings

• Use AI CAM software for optimal tool paths
• Implement modular fixturing systems
• Leverage automation for repetitive tasks
• Optimize cutting parameters for efficiency

Key Learnings

This simple plastic part demonstrates how material choice and part complexity drive costs. ABS is an affordable, easy-to-machine material, and the simple geometry keeps machining time low. The small production run means setup costs are a significant portion of the total.

Key Learnings

This high-performance aerospace component illustrates the impact of expensive materials, tight tolerances, and complex geometry. Titanium’s poor machinability requires slower cutting speeds, significantly increasing machining time. The small production run amplifies setup costs.

Key Learnings

This medical device component shows how specialized materials and quality requirements impact costs. PEEK is more expensive than standard plastics but offers superior biocompatibility. The moderate production run helps amortize setup costs effectively.

Factor	ABS Enclosure	Titanium Bracket	PEEK Enclosure
Material Cost	$2.50 (23%)	$120 (27%)	$35 (41%)
Machining Cost	$8.00 (73%)	$280 (62%)	$45 (53%)
Setup Cost	$0.50 (4%)	$50 (11%)	$5 (6%)
Total Cost	$11.00	$450.00	$85.00
Cost Driver	Machining time	Material + Machining	Material cost

How accurate are these cost estimates?

These estimates are based on industry averages and our extensive experience. Actual costs can vary by ±15-20% depending on specific part geometry, material availability, and production location. For precise quotes, we recommend providing a detailed CAD model and specifications.

What’s the minimum order quantity for CNC machining?

Most CNC shops accept orders starting from 1 piece for prototyping. However, the economics of CNC machining improve significantly with larger quantities. For production runs, we recommend at least 10 pieces to make the most of setup costs. Some shops may have higher minimums for certain materials or processes.

How can I reduce CNC machining costs?

The most effective ways to reduce costs include: simplifying part geometry through DFM, choosing more cost-effective materials, optimizing production quantities, leveraging automation and AI programming, and working with experienced manufacturers who can provide design guidance.

How long does CNC machining take?

Lead times vary significantly based on part complexity and quantity: 1-3 days for simple prototypes, 3-7 days for small batches (11-100 pieces), 1-2 weeks for medium production (101-1,000 pieces), and 2-4 weeks for high volume production. Rush orders may be available for an additional fee.

What’s the difference between 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis machining?

3-axis machines move in X, Y, and Z directions, suitable for simple parts. 4-axis adds rotation around one axis, enabling more complex geometries. 5-axis adds rotation around two axes, allowing machining of highly complex parts from all angles. More axes mean higher machine costs but can reduce setup time and improve part quality for complex components.

How do tolerances affect CNC machining costs?

Tighter tolerances significantly increase costs. Standard tolerances (±0.1mm) are the most economical. Precision tolerances (±0.01-0.05mm) can double or quadruple costs, while high precision (±0.001-0.01mm) can increase costs by 5-15 times. Always specify only the tolerances you truly need for functionality.

Key Conclusions

• Machining time is the largest cost component (30-50%)
• Material selection has a 50x cost range
• Economies of scale reduce costs by 30-60%
• DFM optimization can save 20-40%

Actionable Recommendations

• Invest in DFM analysis early in the design process
• Choose materials based on actual performance requirements
• Plan production quantities strategically
• Work with experienced manufacturers for guidance

“Goldcattle’s DFM analysis reduced our prototype costs by 28% while improving part performance. Their expertise in material selection and process optimization has been invaluable to our product development process.”

— Automotive Tier-1 Engineer