A CNC quote is mostly machine time plus setup, material and finishing. Understanding what drives each one helps you design parts that cost less without losing function.
Main cost factors
- Material: grade, stock size and how much is cut away
- Machine time: number of features, depth of pockets, small tools
- Setups: each re-clamping adds time; multi-face parts benefit from 4.5-axis machining
- Tolerances and surface finish: tighter means slower and more checking
- Secondary processes: anodizing, heat treatment, wire EDM
- Quantity: setup cost is shared across the batch
Ways to reduce cost
- Use general tolerances except on functional features.
- Add internal corner radii instead of sharp corners.
- Avoid deep, narrow pockets and very small holes.
- Choose common material grades and standard thread sizes.
- Order realistic batch sizes rather than very small repeated orders.
Get a quote
We review designs and suggest changes that make parts easier and cheaper to machine.
Chi Xin Technology is a CNC machine shop in Nantun District, Taichung, Taiwan, founded in 2022. We run 5+ CNC machines — 4.5-axis CNC machining centers and CNC lathes — and mainly machine aluminum alloys and alloy steel, with a metal tolerance of 0.02 mm. We also offer wire EDM and surface finishing including anodizing, and we export to customers in Europe and North America.
Frequently asked questions
Do you give design-for-manufacturing feedback?
Yes. We review your design and suggest changes that reduce machining cost.
