We price based on material, process, size, and production volume.
MOQ exists because each project requires setup, tooling, and process control.
We explain how cost is structured so you can estimate your project before requesting a quote.
What You Can Expect
- Typical MOQ ranges for different product types
- Reference price ranges based on material and process
- How tooling and sample cost are structured
- What affects your final unit cost
What Defines Minimum Order Quantity
MOQ is defined by how production is set up.
Each order requires:
- Machine setup
- Material preparation
- Process calibration
- Quality inspection
At low volumes, these steps represent a larger portion of total cost.
Typical MOQ Logic
Low volume → higher cost per unit
Higher volume → lower cost per unit
Why We Support Lower MOQ
Many manufacturers require high MOQ because their production systems are optimized for large-volume runs.
We manage production through controlled processes, including setup, material handling, and process consistency.
This allows us to support smaller batch sizes, especially for projects in early development, without affecting production stability.
Upfront Costs: Sample And Tooling
Sample Cost
We produce samples before mass production to confirm specifications.
Sample Cost Includes:
- Setup and preparation
- Material usage
- Manual processing
- Inspection
Used to verify:
- Dimensions
- Surface finish
- Marking clarity
Tooling Cost
Tooling is required for processes involving forming or shaping.
When Tooling Is Required
- Die casting
- Stamping
- Embossing
Typical Tooling Cost By Process
| Process | Tooling Requirement | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Laser Engraving | Not required | — |
| Chemical Etching | Film mask | Minimal |
| Stamping | Metal tooling | $150 – $500 |
| Die Casting | Mold required | $150 – $800 |
| Electroforming | Mold required | $100 – $800 |
Tooling is a one-time cost used for repeat production.
How Pricing Works In Production
Unit cost is influenced by multiple factors.
Key Cost Drivers
- Material → Aluminum vs stainless steel
- Process → Laser, etching, stamping, casting
- Size & Thickness → Material usage and machining time
- Volume → Cost distribution
Cost Behavior
Higher volume → lower unit cost
More complex process → higher cost
Thicker material → higher cost
Typical Tooling Cost By Process
| Process | Tooling Requirement | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Laser Engraving | Not required | — |
| Chemical Etching | Film mask | Minimal |
| Stamping | Metal tooling | $150 – $500 |
| Die Casting | Mold required | $150 – $800 |
| Electroforming | Mold required | $100 – $800 |
Tooling is a one-time cost used for repeat production.
Typical Price Range By Material And Specification (Reference Only)
Reference Price Matrix
| Material | Typical Size | Typical Thickness | Process | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum | 50×30 mm | 0.3–0.5 mm | Laser Engraving | $0.22 – $2.8 |
| Aluminum | 100×50 mm | 0.5–1.0 mm | Chemical Etching | $0.24 – $3.8 |
| Stainless Steel | 50×30 mm | 0.3–0.5 mm | Laser Engraving | $0.28 – $2.4 |
| Stainless Steel | 100×50 mm | 0.5–1.0 mm | Chemical Etching | $0.25 – $3.7 |
| Brass | 60×40 mm | 0.5–1.5 mm | Etching / Stamping | $0.55 – $3.5 |
| Zinc Alloy | 60×40 mm | 2–3 mm | Die Casting | $0.32 – $4.6 |
| Nickel | Thin Logo | 0.05–0.1 mm | Electroforming | $0.55 – $5.6 |
All specifications listed above are typical configurations used in common projects.
Actual pricing depends on size, thickness, surface finish, design complexity, and order quantity.
These ranges are for reference only and do not represent fixed pricing.
Typical MOQ By Product Type
| Product Type | Typical MOQ |
|---|---|
| Metal Nameplates | 100–300 pcs |
| Metal Labels | 200–500 pcs |
| Metal Emblems | 200–500 pcs |
| Metal Cards | 100–300 pcs |
MOQ is primarily determined by process and production setup, not material alone.
Materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, and brass can be used across different product types.
For example, brass nameplates typically follow the same MOQ range as other etched or stamped nameplates.
Start Your Project
Start with a sample to evaluate your design before production.
We review your specifications and provide a project-specific quotation.
Request A Sample
