Whether you’re a full time manufacturing business owner, or a part time enthusiastic craftsman, you probably already know that CNC machines are invaluable in manufacturing woods, plastics and soft metals.
The question is:
Should you outsource your products for a third party to make?
Or should you buy your own CNC machinery and make your own?
Over the past five years, this is a question our team at CNC3D have helped answer for thousands of people like you. It’s important you make the right decision for your unique manufacturing needs and circumstances.
And that’s what this short blog post is going to help you do.
Over the next 90 seconds, we’ll take you through the benefits and drawbacks of outsourcing your CNC designs, and give you our expert opinion on when you should consider buying your own CNC machine.
Let’s get to it…
The Benefits of Outsourcing your CNC Product Designs
The obvious benefit to outsourcing your CNC work is the upfront cost.
Models that offer the full range of capabilities typically start from $4,000. That’s a large lump sum of money for any small business or craft enthusiast to pay out of their pocket, especially in rough financial waters.
That’s why if you’re a small business owner with a tight budget or you’re only doing this as a part-time hobby to make money on the side, we typically recommend you outsource your CNC designs.
It’s more cost effective in the short run.
Plus, it frees up your time to focus on other projects or services.
And not only that, but if you find a good reputable CNC service provider, they will give you great support. Even if they make an error with one unit, they will generally replace the part for you. That’s peace of mind for you.
But that said, outsourcing isn’t always the best idea.
There are disadvantages to consider too.
The Disadvantages of Outsourcing Your CNC Product Designs
Do you run a business which relies on always having stock?
If so, this is a serious disadvantage to factor in.
When you outsource your CNC products to a third party, you’re at the mercy of their lead time. You may have customers who need products made and delivered within 7 to 14 business days, but what happens when you contact your provider and they can’t make them for another 5 weeks?
Now you’re at risk of losing valuable customers.
Maybe even in danger of negative reviews!
And while outsourcing your CNC products could save you money upfront, it can cost you more over the long term. The more products you need making, the more money you spend on someone else making them.
Especially as they increase their costs over time.
That’s why if you’re an established manufacturing business owner, or an enthusiast who knows they’re going to continue crafting designs into the future, we suggest you seriously consider investing in a CNC machine.
Why You Should Consider Investing In Your Own CNC Machine
Yes you pay more up front, but your payment is an investment.
When you purchase your own CNC machine, you no longer have to pay out to another third party. And over time, this actually saves you money.
As Henry Ford so eloquently put it:
“If you need a machine and don’t buy it, then you will ultimately find that you have paid for it and don’t have it’.
It’s hard to argue with the man who revolutionised manufacturing.
Beyond the idea that buying your own CNC machine is an investment which saves you money in the long run, there are also a number of other advantages to think about too.
For example, when you have your own machine, you can control production timescales. That means when a customer needs something made in 7, 14 or 28 days, you can guarantee that timeline and get paid.
You remove the stress of negotiating with a third party contractor.
You can also better manage quality control when you have your own CNC machine. Especially important when a customer asks for a bespoke product. There’s nothing worse than sending products back and forth between your unhappy customers and frustrated CNC contractors.
And last, but not least, is the added advantage of satisfaction.
There’s no better feeling in the world than watching your newly programmed CNC machine run and craft exquisitely precise designs!
Still Unsure If A CNC Machine Is Right For You?
We appreciate investing in a CNC machine is an investment. That’s why we recommend you reach out to our team before purchasing - so we can help you make the best possible decision for your unique circumstances.
Here at CNC3D, we’re a team of engineers, not salespeople.
That’s why thousands of people turn to us for their CNC needs and we have a 5-star customer rating. One of our recent customers, Jonathon Staines, said:
“I’ve been in business for nearly 20 years and the guys from cnc3d would have to be one of the best businesses I’ve ever dealt with. Their personal service and care for customers is hardly seen in today’s climate. Thanks again guys for all your help and assistance with this challenging bloke!”
We pride ourselves on providing outstanding customer service.
So if you’re still unsure whether a CNC machine is right for you, or if you have any CNC questions at all, then click below and we’d be happy to help.
Or, click below and you’ll see a list of our fully assembled machines (which are plug and play ready). And you can get in contact with us for all the help you need. You can even come by our factory for a 100% free demo session!
What will you choose to do?
Thanks for reading, and happy designing!
The CNC3D team
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