The cost of custom metal work is influenced by various factors, typically ranging from hundreds to thousands of yuan,
and this also applies to trade processing orders. The specific cost depends on the following key factors:
Core Factors Affecting Price:

Typical Quotes for Different Scenarios
Simple Parts (e.g., Stainless Steel Bracket)
Material: 304 Stainless Steel, 2mm thickness
Process: Laser cutting + Bending
Quantity: 50 pieces
Total cost: Approximately ¥2000-4000 (Unit price ¥40-80)
Medium Complexity Parts (e.g., Aluminum Alloy Housing)
Material: 6061 Aluminum Alloy
Process: CNC machining + Anodizing
Quantity: 10 pieces
Total cost: Approximately ¥8000-15000 (Unit price ¥800-1500)
High-Precision Custom Parts (e.g., Titanium Alloy Medical Device Components)
Material: Titanium Alloy (TC4)
Process: 5-axis CNC machining + Mirror polishing
Quantity: 1 piece
Total cost: Approximately ¥5000-20000 (depending on size and precision)
Practical Tips to Save Costs
Optimize Design
Reduce unnecessary complex surfaces and chamfers to lower machining difficulty.
Provide standardized drawings (e.g., CAD files) to avoid design communication costs.
Bulk Production
Single-item costs are high, so it’s recommended to have a minimum order quantity (MOQ) ≥50 pieces to spread the costs.
Material Substitution
If not necessary, avoid using expensive metals like titanium alloys and switch to stainless steel or aluminum.
Choose Local Suppliers
Local processing saves on shipping costs and facilitates communication (factories are dense in areas like the Yangtze River Delta or Pearl River Delta).
Clarify Technical Requirements
Specify accuracy and surface treatment levels in advance to avoid rework.
Steps to Get Accurate Quotes
Provide detailed requirements: including drawings, materials, quantity, and process needs.
Compare prices from multiple sources: via platforms (Alibaba, AliExpress) or offline factories.
Verify qualifications: Check the supplier’s ISO certification, equipment list (e.g., availability of 5-axis CNC).
Sample small batch: First, verify the quality with sample production before mass production.
Precautions
Hidden Costs: Molding fees (casting), urgent fees (for shortened delivery times) may increase costs by 20%-50%.
Lead Time Impact: Regular processing takes 3-15 days, and urgent processing may double the cost.
Conclusion:
The cost of custom metal fabrication needs to be evaluated based on specific requirements. It is recommended to finalize the design, material, and quantity first, then provide detailed information to the supplier for an accurate quote. For small orders, unit prices may range from hundreds to thousands of yuan, while large-scale production can significantly reduce costs.







