Frequently Asked Questions

Start by determining your core requirements: process, material, volume, and certifications. Use those constraints to filter platforms like Manufacturer Near You. Once you have a shortlist, evaluate them based on responsiveness, technical questions they ask during quoting, and verifiable references before placing an order.

A job shop typically makes parts to print for whoever walks in the door, focusing on short runs and quick turns. A contract manufacturer (CM) acts as a strategic partner, managing supply chains, performing assemblies, maintaining rigorous quality systems like ISO 9001, and handling high-volume production schedules.

Domestic manufacturing is usually best for prototypes, heavy/bulky items, IP-sensitive designs, ITAR/defense parts, and lower volumes where shipping costs eat into margin. Overseas manufacturing excels at high-volume, labor-intensive assemblies, and consumer goods where per-unit cost must be minimized. Evaluate the "total landed cost" including shipping, tariffs, and management time, not just the per-part quote.

CNC machining is a subtractive process where computer-controlled cutting tools remove material from a solid block. Use it when you need precise tolerances, strong structural metal or plastic parts, or volumes ranging from 1 to 5,000 where investing in molding/casting tooling isn't justified.

The break-even point typically occurs between 1,000 and 5,000 units. While injection molding requires an upfront tooling investment ($5k-$50k+), the per-part cost drops to pennies or dollars. If your annual volume exceeds a few thousand units and the part is plastic, molding is almost always cheaper in the long run.

DFM is the practice of designing parts so they are easy and inexpensive to manufacture. A part might function perfectly in CAD, but if it requires custom cutting tools, excessive setups, or impossible tolerances, it will cost 3x more than necessary. Good DFM reduces cost, lead time, and defect rates.