Plastic Injection Molding Pricing Factors

Factors that Influence the Cost of a Plastic Injection Molding Job

Determining the price of your product depends on numerous parameters. Using an interactive spreadsheet, we develop a pricing structure based on these factors, and then, by modifying parameters, we can assess the effects of the various different tooling strategies. Learn about the factors that influence the price of a mold and the price of parts.

Mold Strategy

By understanding the requirements for part volume, design complexity, dimensional tolerances, surface finish, gating and molding material we can help you determine the most cost-effective mold solution. For relatively small simple parts a much less expensive mold insert might be appropriate.

Mold Size

Larger and deeper parts require bigger molds which will generally increase cost. Gating of a large part can also significantly impact mold size and cost.

Number of Cavities

By running through the spreadsheet the appropriate number of cavities can be determined. This is based primarily on expected volume, mold cost, part cost and mold lead time.

Off shore VS. On shore

We have qualified onshore and offshore sources for molds. After assessing the customer's application we may get quotes from both and evaluate the cost/benefit of each option.

Part Price Factors

Material Selection

The appropriate plastic material must meet all of the application's physical and chemical requirements and be manufacturable in the part design.

Labor Content

Our goal is to minimize the labor content and part price by automating the process as much as possible.

Cavities

Generally, having more cavities in the mold will significantly reduce part cost. This is especially important for higher volume applications.

Production Rate

Part design and material selection affect how fast the part can be molded. Since most moldmakers charge for the machine by the hour, the faster the part runs the lower the part pricing.

Order Quantity

Quantity affects price in two ways. First, the higher the part volume the lower the material price. Second, the setup cost is amortized over more parts.

Packaging

Get the product safely to the customer or the end user.

Secondary Operations

We produce a number of parts which require spacial packaging, assembly or kitting after molding.