How much does it cost to mold in China?

08 Apr.,2024

 

Injection molding is a popular manufacturing process used to create complex parts by plastic injecting molten materials into a mold cavity. The injection molding cost is a significant consideration for companies when choosing a manufacturing location, particularly in comparison to China, known for its lower manufacturing costs. In this blog post, we will explore the factors affecting injection molding costs, compare the costs of injection molding in the USA and China, and provide practical ways to reduce injection molding costs.

Plastic Injection Modeling Cost in China

When it comes to custom injection molding costs in China, the price can vary depending on the scale of production and quality of work required. Typically, small-scale production can cost around $1000, while larger-scale production may cost up to $12000. Outsourcing to China for large-scale processing can be a cost-effective option compared to other methods.

To break down the costs further, you can expect to pay around $1305 before profit for a mold, including material costs of $600, designing fees of $150, machining costs of $250, assembly, heat treatment, and mold testing costs of $120, and taxes of $185.

Comparatively, in other parts of the world, outsourcing these services could end up costing you more than it would in China. So, if you’re looking for high-quality injection molding services at a reasonable price, Qmolding is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our custom injection molding material solutions.

Injection Molding Cost Comparison: USA vs. China

Labor costs: China’s vast labor force means that labor costs are lower than in the USA. However, the US has a higher standard of living, meaning that its workers require higher wages.

Raw material costs: Raw materials used in injection molding design, such as plastic resin, are cheaper in the USA than in China.

Energy costs: China’s energy costs are lower than in the USA, thanks to the country’s reliance on coal.

Transportation costs: Although manufacturing costs are lower in China, the cost of shipping products to the USA can be significant. Companies need to factor in transportation costs when choosing a manufacturing location.

If you are looking for a reliable injection molding service provider in China, look no further than Qmolding. We have extensive experience in providing high-quality injection molding services to clients from various industries, including automotive, electronics, medical, and more. Our state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge technology, and skilled workforce ensure that we deliver products that meet and exceed your expectations. We also offer competitive pricing, fast turnaround times, and excellent customer service. Contact us today to learn how we can help you with your plastic molding needs and experience the Qmolding difference.

Factors Affecting Injection Molding Costs

1. Material selection: The cost of raw materials used for plastic injection molding varies depending on their availability and quality. Selecting cost-effective materials without compromising quality can help reduce injection molding costs.

2. Production volume: The higher the production volume, the lower the cost per unit. Manufacturers can save money by producing larger quantities.

3. Design complexity: Complex designs require more tooling and additional steps, increasing the cost of injection molding.

4. Manufacturing location: Production costs differ between regions, and it is essential to compare them before choosing a manufacturing location. Labor costs, energy costs, and taxes vary significantly between countries.

Ways to Reduce Injection Molding Costs

  • Optimize the design: The simpler the design, the lower the cost of manufacturing. By minimizing the number of features and plastic parts, manufacturers can reduce the complexity of the mold and lower tooling costs.
  • Select cost-effective materials: Manufacturers can save money by using less expensive materials without compromising the quality of the product. They can also consider using recycled materials to reduce costs.
  • Use automation: Automation can reduce labor costs and increase efficiency. Manufacturers can use robotics to handle repetitive tasks and improve the speed and accuracy of production.
  • Increase production volume: Producing larger quantities can lower the cost per unit, making injection molding more cost-effective.

A Sample Injection Mold Cost Break Down

The item described is a plastic box’s square cover. The essential particulars are:

  • Material used: PP
  • Product size: 15015015mm
  • Mold material: 718H
  • Cavities quantity: 1
  • Ejection method: ejection plate

We offer a mold price of $1250, which is broken down below:

Conclusion

The cost of injection molding varies significantly depending on the location and various other factors. Companies need to compare the costs of injection molding in different regions, particularly the USA and China, before choosing a manufacturing location. Although China is known for its lower manufacturing costs, the cost savings may be offset by the transportation costs involved in importing products from China. By optimizing the design, selecting cost-effective materials, using automation, and increasing production volume, manufacturers can reduce injection molding costs without compromising the quality of the product. Ultimately, choosing the right manufacturing location requires careful consideration of all factors to ensure the best value for money.

If you want to know more about detailed about plastic injection molding, what it is, types, and other things about plastic molding, read this blog.

The mold size:

As the mold size increases, the Price Factor decreases. Small molds have lower material costs, yet the reduction in other expenses is not as significant. Conversely, with larger molds, the increase in other costs does not scale proportionally with the rise in material costs.

Complexity: 

The complexity of the mold directly correlates with its Price Factor; more intricate molds command higher prices.

Simple geometric molds can be efficiently machined using larger milling tools, requiring less time. In contrast, molds with complex shapes necessitate the use of smaller milling tools for detailed work, and some parts may require EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining), significantly extending the machining time.

Additionally, more complex molds often feature many sliding mechanisms and require more components for assembly.

Precision:

This is because achieving higher accuracy necessitates the use of more sophisticated and expensive equipment, as well as slowing down the tool’s movement (feeding) to reach the desired level of precision.

Sometimes, adjustments to the mold’s structure are also required to accommodate these precision needs.

Tall ribs and posts

Tall ribs/posts are equivalent to deep grooves/holes within the mold, requiring the application of Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM). Additionally, this will present challenges during the injection molding process and elevate the manufacturing cost of the components.

How much does it cost to mold in China?

Injection Mold Cost Estimation and Online Calculator