Precision tool and die job shop

Manufacturers, stamping and plastic molding companies, and contract suppliers in the automotive, medical, aerospace and consumer goods supply chains.

Quoted price per tool or job based on machine hours and materials, plus ongoing repair, maintenance and engineering change work.

• Tool and die making or CNC machining experience
• CAD/CAM programming
• Precision inspection
• Estimating and customer relationships

• Customers may ask for quality certifications such as ISO 9001, check what your target buyers require
• General liability, property and equipment insurance, plus workers' compensation once you hire
• Depending on a few customers can leave you exposed if one leaves or pays late
• Lease terms, three-phase power and zoning for industrial use, check with your city or county
• Hazardous waste and coolant disposal rules, check with your state environmental agency
• Some defense or export-related work has extra registration rules, verify before bidding

Startup costs are estimates, typically around $80,000 to $300,000, depending on the CNC, grinding and EDM equipment you buy, whether it is new or used, and your lease and fit-out.

Monthly revenue is an estimate, typically around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your equipment, the customers you win and the complexity of the work. These figures are revenue before costs.

Check which quality certifications your target buyers require, such as ISO 9001, lease terms, three-phase power and industrial zoning, hazardous waste and coolant disposal rules, and any registration for defense or export-related work.